how about carbon wheels in wet conditions? is it really that bad?
in rain the tire doesn't brake good, as well, so with carbon you have some sort of ABS?

I saw ZIPPs have some kind of ceramic brake surface. how about other products? does this help?

I ride carbon wheels year round and in the rain. Yes
the braking is not as good in the rain but it is very managable. For the 1st time riding them wet, I would suggest doing a solo ride so you can be accustomed to the braking and you don't endanger anyone but yourself. I would also suggest using swisstop yellow pads as they are the best in the rain and dry conditions also.Hope this helps a tad.
John

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NCVC
2nd place is just the 1st loser
Friends don't let friends ride clinchers

The newer Zipps have a textured carbon brake surface. I find it works well if you have your brakes setup correctly.

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WW Velocipedist Gargantuan

Just take your time. Riding the wheels in the wet isnt that bad and like you mentioned, tires are skittish in the wet as well.

Some pads types and gimmicks can help, but if rain is predicted, most riders are better off switching to aluminum rims.

there were a lot of crashes in the spring races last year blamed on carbon rims on wet roads.

Not to hijack,but . . .

Swissstop yellow seems to be the (no pun) gold standard for carbon wheels.
I see where Nimble recommends the green Koolstop pads -- anyone have
experience with those (wet or dry)?


ride on!

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Ride on!

I've used both. They do have enough friction when wet, but the problem is that they can be very grabby and lead to lock up.
I've had to release the rear brake to avoid this.

Now I just use my all wheels in wet weather. It's a wonder I'm still alive.

And yet when it was chucking it down for Liege most of the field started on carbon rims. So they clearly put a minute weight/aero saving before braking ability.