Originally posted by mrfix
Rich has the answer to long rim life, tight even tension.
P.B. I have found through experiance that a 4 cross wheel will ride softer than a 3 cross, but the 3 cross is more durable and will tend to bend less on rough roads when properly built and tensioned. I build my favorite wheels for me and for many other happy cycling using the Mavic 519/520, DT- 14/15 DB spokes and shimano ultegra hubs using the cross 3 lacing, I also find that for banging around I run the contiental ultra 2000 700-28C and for long distance I like the top touring.
Mmmm that is interesting. I've been told the 4 cross will hold up better than a 3 cross. Maybe that's the problem.
They switched me to the Continental Top Touring 2000 (700 x 32c), from the Specialized Armadillo Turbos (700 x 26c) because they said the specialized tires were too stiff and had no give, therefore they were causing the spokes to loose up and the tire to go out of true. Not sure if I believe that or not.
I'm inclined to try a different wheel builder and see what he/she thinks about a 40 spoke wheel with a 3 cross pattern, double butted spokes (14/15/14) and probably a 32c tire.
PBW