Originally Posted by
3speed
I'm about to build up a wheel-set. I only weigh ~150lbs and only plan to have ~30-40lbs of stuff on the bike when touring. I also plan to use this bike for leisurely and somewhat spirited summer rides, so I'm steering clear of the Surly LHT with big beefy parts sort of build. What would you suggest on the lighter weight end of touring rims? So far I've read good things about the Velocity Dyad and they weigh less than a lot of typical stout touring rims, but I'm hoping there's something that isn't going to cost me $75/rim. Under $50 would be Much preferred.
I have been pleased with the Dyad rims for their weight and durability. We run them on 3 bikes, 2 touring and a cyclo cross bike. They are all built with the 36 spoke rims. I selected the Dyad rims because I thought they were a good balance between weight and durability.
My cross bike with 28 mm tires fit the description of your riding style. I rode it loaded across the country, and at the other end of the spectrum, take it on weekend club rides. It is may favorite bike. I weigh about the same as you, and can get away with a smaller tire while still being comfortable. However, I will probably put a lightweight 32 mm on it if I use it for touring again. Good wheels are a good long-term investment.
On a tour a couple of years ago part of our route took us over 400 miles of dirt and unsurfaced roads and 500 miles of cobblestone roads and trails. My wife and I were both running Dyad rims on the loaded touring bikes. My wife's wheels have over 10,000 miles on them, and they are still as true as when they were built. About 2/3 of that was loaded touring.
Universal Cycle in Portland make an excellent custom wheel at a good price.
Universal Cycles -- Custom Wheelset Builder