I noticed that quite a few google searches of Corima Aero wheels ended up on this blog. I hope that those people didn't click "I feel lucky" as they must have been pretty disappointed not to find anything useful. Well, I don't think that I can provide any helpful or constructive information on the Corima Aero Tubulars (for that please visit the tech data page on the manufacturer's homepage) but I'm able to put together a very subjective nifty little product review.
I started researching racing wheels over a year ago and only because Alberto kept praising the advantages of weight reduction, stiffness and good hubs and tyres that just roll and roll and roll. I was riding and racing the Ksyrium SSL's and didn't really think that spending a few thousand dollars would bring that much benefit. However, I started researching. I first didn't look at the Corimas because they didn't fit the colour scheme of my bike (yes, I'm serious!). I fell in love with Campag's Hyperons but was also considering Zipp 404 and 303ies and Bora's (second hand from a friend's friend). I definitely wanted tubulars. Then one bike shop in town offered to take a pair of Corimas for a spin over the weekend. So I picked them up and took them to my favourite hilly Eaton's Crossing/Bunya loop.
It was like riding a whole new bike and I was sold immediately. It was exactly the same feeling as test riding the Time frame. I loved the sound the wheels made. They felt harsher than the Ksyrium SSL's but faster, more responsive, more precise. And I could definitely feel the benefits of the aero deep dish rims at higher speeds and in the wind. I solved the colour issue by scraping the stickers off. It was a painfully slow process but I love the stealth look of my all black Corimas and it really shows off the beautiful carbon weave.
Now over a year and many races later it still excites me to put these wheels in. Changing the brake pads is sometimes a little annoying but really only takes five minutes and is not a big deal. However, I do envy Alberto sometimes as his Zipp wheels do not require carbon specific brake pads, which is very convenient when riding to a race and then just swap over wheels before the race.
I love riding tubulars. They just roll. But I always pray that I won't have a flat at an inconvenient time as I usually don't carry a spare (just my mobile phone with a hotline to Alberto).
I am glad I bought these wheels and the small inconveniences do not out-weight the advantages of lower rolling resistance, energy saving through aero rims and the feel and sound these wheels provide. They sing to me.
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8 comments:
After that small little ride you gave me on your Corima's, I fell in love, I'm not sure whether that would be the same with a set of Zipps/other carbon tubulars (don't worry Alberto, I'm not hinting at anything:p), but I fell in love. The sound when you get into it is great, it sounds like a jet taking off.
A set of the new Corima's or Zipp 404's are definitely on the list for the new bike next year, it's going to be such a hard decision to make.
Those are great wheels you have.
I used to have the SSLs and they made no real impression on me either way.
Recently I tested the Easton EC90s in a stage race and was amazed at how stiff they felt compared to the American Classics that I usually ride. I really think the aero advantage of these deep dish wheels is at higher speeds such as around 28-30 mph. I race mostly crits, but would still like to have a set of carbon tubulars. Now if I could only convince my wife that it is necessary :)
I wonder why you cannot get a brake pad that will work with all your rims? I inherited a set of Nimble Crosswind wheels, all carbon with a carbon braking surface; the recommended brake pads are Kool Stop salmon colored pads, which is exactly what I ride with my alloy rims. I know Corima recommends 'their' pads, but it seems that other pads that work with carbon should work, too.
One of these days I will get some good deep dish rims. Someday.
sweet wheels. I think the cell phone is the best flat-repair plan with those things. I once spent 1.5 hours by the side of the road trying to pry a tubbie off the wheel so I could put on the spare and limp gently home. Would have been much more efficient to call someone for a ride....
Hey -- I feel the same way (exhilaration, etc.) when I put on my Dura-Ace tubeless wheels. So light, so fast, so very smooth.
Whitey - I know exactly what mean. It happened to me, too. :-)
Chris - definitely agree on the advantage of the deep dish rim at 40 km/h plus but how often do I sit at this speed? ;) I do like the Corimas in crits as well as they really handle the corners well. Sorry, can't give any advise on how to convince your wife that you have to have them. Maybe you could tell her that you will be faster and therefore home earlier from training rides?
Cyclistrick - thanks for that input. I've been told I need carbon specific brake pads so I won't damage the carbon braking surface but I haven't researched if there are alternative brake pads I can use for both. Will definitely get more info on that.
Chatterbox - yes, that's why I'm not even bothering taking spare tubs. I have tried those "Pit Stop" products - some component you spray into the valve. It promises to seal the leak from the inside - at least enough to limp home. It actually worked once so that's my last resort option ... when Alberto is at work.
Bryan - know exactly how you feel.
whats the rim depth on that?
I'm not too sure, Ron. I think it's 45 mm but don't quote me on that.
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