Originally Posted by
cqlink
First owner wanted a freewheel better suited for hills around Seattle area so he took the bike to the shop and asked for what's currently on the bike. Don't know what transpired after that but the original Paramount (Weinmann rim and gold tone freewheel) went MIA.
I want to get the bike back to original specs (as much as I can) and purchased the Campy high flange hub and the Sun CR-18 because it closely matches the polished aluminum original Weinmann rim and Campy high flange hub on the front (3 cross pattern). A forum member provided a picture of his and liked the vintage-like look and performance so I went with the Sun rim based on this and other online reviews of the rim.
While Weinmann options were out there, most I found were used. As this is my first build I thought it better to start with a new rim. If I'm not looking at this correctly, let me know. All help is appreciated.
I think you're fine. Though I prefer 4x with high flange hubs, 3x is, practically speaking, no problem. Millions of wheels have successfully survived being laced 3x.
I agree with your choice to have it match the front wheel's spoking pattern too. A pair of wheels should look like a pair of wheels.
No rim is perfect, but I've built and ridden many wheels with CR-18s and they are a good rim, and good value for money. Since this is your rookie build, starting with a new rim is a very good idea. If you ever come across a NOS Weinmann to match the front, chances are you could swap it over without relacing the wheel.