Originally Posted by
VT Biker
Thanks guys.
On a follow-up, I descend a lot of mountain roads here in the front range, and wanted to maximize my ability to brake down the steep switchbacks and curves. I was somewhat intrigued at the increased stopping power, even under dry conditions.
Anyone else's thoughts?
Also - I weight <150lbs, so not sure this changes the nature of what type of wheel. But I wanted to build a kind of standard, everyday wheel that could be used in almost any condition, weather, road type, but still remain something that I could race a crit in if needed.
I would go with open pro (non ceramic) laced to DT Swiss 240s Salim cx-ray spokes, 28 radial front, 32 2x or 3x rear with brass nipples.
In fact this is what I have on one of my bikes and it has done fine on several mountains in CA including over 30 runs on Palomar, Big Bear, and mountains in Italy in wet and even sleety conditions, including but not limited to P. Stelvio, Gavia, Fedaia, Gruppo Sella.
Many will argue against DT's flange spacing but it's been good enough for T. Boonen and other Tour riders.
Also DT parts are very easy to come by in case of need of overhaul.
If you are on a budget, WI or DA hubs are also no-nonsense albeit heavier than the DT Swiss hubs.