Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Opinions on 24 spoke rear wheel?

I'm 215lbs, but these would be "race" wheels: I was looking to build up a 24h front (Velocity Deep-V) and got a deal on a pair of 24h deep-V rims. I was initially thinking of a 28 or 32h rear but am wondering if I can go ahead with a 24h rear b/c I have the rim. I know the front should typically be a lower spoke count, but I didn't even want to think about messing with a 20h front, 24 is the lowest I want to try out. Should I build up and try a 24h rear?

Again, these are going to be "race" wheels, so approx 50-100mi per month max.

Thanks.

Well, you've got the rim: might as well.

But, in my experience (I'm about 45lbs heavier than you, though), a 24h is almost useless. I have a 28h that I can use almost everyday, but I try to only use it on "race day" as well. I have to watch it for true-ness and tighten it up every 100 miles or so depending on course conditions. Because of your weight (vs. mine), you might have better luck.

Maybe better to look for a 28h. Then sell the 24h? Or make up two front 24h wheels?

Hey Indy,

Dirty Harry once said, "You've got to ask yourself one question, Do I feel lucky?"

I find confidence (i.e. >28 spokes F & R) allows me to go faster than anything.

At your weight I think you'll be fine. When I was 230 I was riding a pair of 24 spoke no-name Vuelta XRP Pro wheels and they've been fine.

The wheels should be fine - I have 24 or 22 spokes on the rear. The main concern is the potholes and obstacles - which are a problem with just about any spoke count.

I have a set of 16 spoke Shimano DA wheels that I've had for years (around 10) and I'm 15-25lbs heavier than you. The number of spokes isn't nearly as important as the skill of the wheel builder. If you have a skilled wheel builder you should be completely confident in them.

I have a set of 24/20 Mavic Aksiums that have probably 3000 miles (maybe more) on them and have had zero problems. I started riding them around 270#. Now I'm hovering around 240 (but I'm working on that...)

According to the specs on my bike I've got the following:
"Easton-Velomax Vista wheelset, 20H radial front, 24H radial NDS/2X DS Rear"

After several thousand miles I haven't had a bit of problem with them. I occasionally have to tweak a spoke or two, but they're still in pretty good true. I weigh quite a bit more than 215.

I'm around 245#-250# and have approx 7,000 on my Xero 20/24 paired spoke wheels. Had them retensioned after a few hundred miles and they are still true with NO problems.

At your weight, IMO (and experience...) it's going to depend on your riding style.

If you ride high cadence with steady and low pedal force on level ground, you'll be fine. If you mash your way up lots of really steep hills at 40 RPM, you'll likely be snapping spokes real soon.

Just make sure it's built well with brass nipples. Don't shave grams when you're worried if it's strong enough.