Originally Posted by
chaadster
For example, are a $280 set of USA handbuilt Velocity Aeroheads better than an $800 set of factory Mavic Ksyrium Elites? Are they lighter? More aero? More durable?
Despite being handbuilt customs, the answer across the board is No.
You're also making an apples-to-oranges-to-bananas comparison of qualities.
The lightest wheels will not necessarily be the most aerodynamic. Deep section carbon wheels are heavier than ultralight climbing hoops, but have a far improved aerodynamic capacity. Durability is a product of many factors: Was the wheel built properly to begin with? Are the materials well suited for the rider? Is the design well suited for the intended purpose? Putting a pair of Ksyrium Elites under a 275 pound commuter who rides a combination of chip seal and washboard hardpack roads 15 miles each way is going to lead one to the misconceived notion that the Ksyrium Elite isn't a durable wheelset.
Maybe, depending on the purpose, the $280 handbuilt pair of Velocities actually
is a better choice.