The 2004 Tour of Flanders winner has continually been at the front of the peleton in the cruel Belgian classics. Ever since the year 2000 the German rider has been in top shape each spring season. Both during the 2001 and 2002 Paris-Roubaix Wesemann was able to finish in the top ten despite severe problems with his cleats, allowing him to pedal with one leg only at the end of the race. ‘Wese’, as he is known in the cycling world, finished in places 7 and 2, showing the world what he would have been capable of without this mishap.

» "Never neglect aerodynamics as a factor."

Mr Wesemann, can you describe what happens in the final kilometers prior to a decisive section in a classic one-day race, be it cobble stones or a hill? What kind of speed are we talking about?
It’s the same as during the last kilometer right before the final sprint .

Do aerodynamic wheels really offer an advantage in this situation right before an attack? How important is aerodynamics during the final kilometers?

Never neglect aerodynamics as a factor. The less I have to give to get to the finish line the better my chances when it really counts.

» "Stiffness alone is not enough – classics wheels must be durable as well."

Most spring classics are won on short, steep climbs. This is where one would expect super light wheels to shine. Why is it then that so few pros actually ride super light wheels (except for Lightweight wheels)?
In addition to being light your wheels also must be durable. I guess most riders simply don’t trust these wheels. And a lot depends on your component sponsor, of course!

Which characteristics of our wheels do you value especially: Light weight, good aerodynamics or exceptional lateral stiffness?
The wheel combines all the desirable characteristics – I wouldn't want to miss one of them.

Is there anything we could still improve?
Nothing really, maybe except for an optional front wheel with a lower cross section rim!

Wesemann’s interval training : Wesemann warms up for about 70 minutes. Average heart rate is below 120, average speed at 27.5 kph (17 mph). His power output is at an impressive 172 watts. Wese rides four 12 minute intervals, using power output and cadence rather than pulse to gauge his effort. Cool down between intervals is about 16 minutes. The first interval is ridden with a cadence of 120 and 330 watts, followed by three intervals at 90 rpm and 380 watts. Rolling home after a good ride.

Ask pro rider Steffen Wesemann! We will publish selected questions and answers right here on our website. Click on the link below to post your question. We kindly ask you to provide your name as well.

» General questions

» General questions

Paris-Roubaix Dominik Hofeditz: Hi Wese, at Paris-Roubaix you rode a Giant frame. Wasn't that a TCR composite, but with cantis? Do you always get one-off bikes?? And what about the wheels - would Lightweights have been wrong? I ride'em myself and I love them!! Were those Corimas you were riding? Greeting, Dominik Hofeditz Steffen Wesemann: Hi Dominik! The frame was indeed a TCR made especially for Roubaix. They only made one for me, though, would have been much too expensive to make them for all the riders, so it was indeed a one-off. Regarding wheels: Lightweights are not too great for Roubaix, as they are too stiff. We use specific wheels which are only ridden there. Certainly not carbon, and not from Corima, either.

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