Why do track bicycles often have the rear wheel filled in with a solid disc, while the front wheel retains the standard spokes?
• Solid wheels are used because they provide an aerodynamic advantage over a spoked wheel. However, they also act like a sail and allow crosswinds to push against the bike. This cross force is acceptable for a rear wheel, but would interfere with the rider’s ability to steer if it acted on the front wheel.
In addition, solid wheels are heavier than spoked wheels so do not allow for rapid acceleration. They tend to be used where the design goal is to help the rider maintain a steady speed – for example, in a event or time trial – but are not suited to a sprint race.
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Steve Johnson, Eugene, Oregon, US