Bicycle Mechanics - Mavic Open Pro vs. MA3 rims

What are the basic differences between the Mavic Open Pro rim vs the Mavic MA3 rims?

I know there is a weight difference of 45 grams. That isn't an issue as I don't race. My question is which rims are stonger and are more suited for a heavier rider? I'm considering getting either a pair of MA3 rims laced to 105 hubs or a pair of Open Pro's laced to Ultegra hubs and am wondering which would be the best option.

Both rims appear very similar in external shape (classic styled?). The MA3, however, has quite a bit of extra material in the form of two tubes going along the edge of the rims near the braking surface, hence the extra weight. Please forgive me if I don't know the exact terminology for that. :o My instincts tell me that the MA3 would be a better choice for a heavier rider because of that extra material but I would like to know for sure.

Your help and advice certainly is apprciated. Thanks in advance.

Link To Open Pro...
http://www.mavic.com/servlet/srt/mavic/road-prod_fiche?product.id=59&lg=uk

Link to MA3...
http://www.mavic.com/servlet/srt/mavic/road-prod_fiche?product.id=55&lg=uk


It also appears there is a similar difference between the CPX22 and the CPX33 with the CPX22 being heavier but perhaps more suited for heavier riders.

What are the basic differences between the Mavic Open Pro rim vs the Mavic MA3 rims?

I know there is a weight difference of 45 grams. That isn't an issue as I don't race. My question is which rims are stonger and are more suited for a heavier rider? I'm considering getting either a pair of MA3 rims laced to 105 hubs or a pair of Open Pro's laced to Ultegra hubs and am wondering which would be the best option.

Both rims appear very similar in external shape (classic styled?). The MA3, however, has quite a bit of extra material in the form of two tubes going along the edge of the rims near the braking surface, hence the extra weight. Please forgive me if I don't know the exact terminology for that. :o My instincts tell me that the MA3 would be a better choice for a heavier rider because of that extra material but I would like to know for sure.

Your help and advice certainly is apprciated. Thanks in advance.

Link To Open Pro...
http://www.mavic.com/servlet/srt/mavic/road-prod_fiche?product.id=59&lg=uk

Link to MA3...
http://www.mavic.com/servlet/srt/mavic/road-prod_fiche?product.id=55&lg=uk


It also appears there is a similar difference between the CPX22 and the CPX33 with the CPX22 being heavier but perhaps more suited for heavier riders. The OP and 33s use maxtal which is claimed to be a stronger alloy,and they are also welded at the seam. Never heard of an issue with either if properly built. The ma3 and 22s just save a few $$ IMO, rather than offering any real superiority.

As it so happens I've got a pair of each (22s, 33s, Open Pro and MA3....along with some MA2s). The 22s and the Opens have probably logged the most usage. I haven't had a problem with any of them and I could be considered of clyde proportions.

I build a set of MA3's last fall. I weight 190. Seem to be staying true, I'll keep 'em.
I thought weight was the main difference from Opens.

MA3's have a pretty bad rep. mine had a spoke pull out 600 miles after it was built. here are a few links
http://groups-beta.google.com/group/rec.bicycles.tech/browse_thread/thread/32939234b6efb4df/086274e57eb551ef?q=ma3#086274e57eb551ef

Anyone have any thoughts on the Mavic A719 rims? Seems as though they may be marketed toward urban commuting and touring and may suit my needs better than either the MA3 or Open Pro.

Seems I can get a pair of wheels with A719 rims laced to 105 hubs for $200 from Performance Bike before coupons. I'm really interested more in durability than bling. Thanks again.

Anyone have any thoughts on the Mavic A719 rims? Seems as though they may be marketed toward urban commuting and touring and may suit my needs better than either the MA3 or Open Pro.

Seems I can get a pair of wheels with A719 rims laced to 105 hubs for $200 from Performance Bike before coupons. I'm really interested more in durability than bling. Thanks again.
Wheels built poorly with the best components are still junk. Performance is not on my list of preferred wheel builders/suppliers.

Anyone have any thoughts on the Mavic A719 rims? Seems as though they may be marketed toward urban commuting and touring and may suit my needs better than either the MA3 or Open Pro.

Seems I can get a pair of wheels with A719 rims laced to 105 hubs for $200 from Performance Bike before coupons. I'm really interested more in durability than bling. Thanks again.

Performance has a 105/MA3 combo for $130 before coupon. Considering the price difference, I'd go that way. My guess is that the MA3 wouldn't be as durable but it should be serviceable for a long time.

Really like bold face, huh? :lol:

I weigh in at 185-190. I've got a MA-3 on my fixie that's been great since I built it up last February and a set built up with Open Pros that I've ridden since October of '03 and they've stayed true as well. But, all of that said, I'd lean more towards the Open Pros and a good builder. You're not just paying more to save weight, they're an incredibly durable rim.