Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Lighter or stronger wheels

I asked this question (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=532114) over in the commuting forum but I think I got too wordy so I didn't get many replies. Basically, I'm thinking of using only my road bike for commuting but getting a separate wheelset, one strong one for commuting and one lighter one for group rides, hill climbing, etc. I current wheelset is a Veulta XRP Pro. I'm just wondering if this one should be the fast wheels or strong wheels?

The wheels are aero spokes and rims with 24 spokes. I just weighed the front wheel though and it's kind of heavy at 920 grams (w/o tire, tube, or skewer). It's handled a front wheel gripping crash fine so far, so I'm leaning towards having it be my commuting wheelset.

I weigh around 187 lbs, used to be around 230 lbs, so I'm either a Clyde emeritus or I meet the over 6 foot criteria (I'm 6'5"). Maybe with lunch and clothes I'd tip the scales at over 200 lbs though.

At a load of 200# I think the deciding factor in which wheels you use will depend on the condition of the roads/ paths on which you commute.

I asked [URL="http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=532114"]

The wheels are aero spokes and rims with 24 spokes. I just weighed the front wheel though and it's kind of heavy at 920 grams (w/o tire, tube, or skewer). It's handled a front wheel gripping crash fine so far, so I'm leaning towards having it be my commuting wheelset.

I weigh around 187 lbs, used to be around 230 lbs, so I'm either a Clyde emeritus or I meet the over 6 foot criteria (I'm 6'5"). Maybe with lunch and clothes I'd tip the scales at over 200 lbs though.

It sounds like your existing set is tough enough for everyday training or commuting. I would buy a lighter set for fast rides if your budget allows.


Michael

At a load of 200# I think the deciding factor in which wheels you use will depend on the condition of the roads/ paths on which you commute.

Conditions are generally pretty good. All paved roads or paths and few enough potholes that I can avoid them and stay on smooth ground.

Are you climbing and racing with substantial climbs a lot? Otherwise lighter wheels will make no difference to a heaver set when it comes to speed on the flats.

Are you climbing and racing with substantial climbs a lot? Otherwise lighter wheels will make no difference to a heaver set when it comes to speed on the flats.

No, I'm not racing. I hope to get more involved in group rides, charity rides, longer distances, etc. I do definitely hope to do more climbing this year too. That's why I linked to the Neuvations, since I'm not racing it's not worth really expensive wheels.