Originally Posted by
cuda2k
Do you have the reach on the current brakes to drop the pads down (4mm is it??). The Open Pro is a great rim, I run them on my Gazelle AB-Frame. Going to a 700c wheel will certainly open your options up as far as tires go if you're looking for more performance, but it appears you're rigged up more for light touring at the moment. As your post reads, you're looking to ride faster, so yeah, I'd go with the Open Pro, or the Ambroiso Excellight SSC rim if you can get them cheaper than the OP, but are harder to come by. After that, I'd suggest road pedals (and carbon sole shoes) as the next upgrade as that is what seemed to help me the most when I was upgrading the Gazelle.
Yes, the brakes have adequate reach (47-57mm); I measured before purchasing. Do you think the ability to go with better tires has more impact than the rim itself?
You touched on the main issue: can I adequately equip the bike for both fast commuting and fast (but non-racing) group rides, or should I draw a line in the sand and plan on a second bike that is more performance-oriented?
Interesting, so you noticed an actual performance impact going from spd to look-type pedals and shoes? I know there is the "hot foot" issue, but that can be negated (presumably), with the Shimano A520 spd pedal, which has a "platform" that increases surface area.