Huh... one man's opinion-- unless they have radically changed manufacturing. I have 10,000 miles on a set of SLs that haven't been touched- mostly on crappy American roads. I paid maybe half of retail for them--- would never consider paying full price. they are not worth it. But they are a solid, bullet-proof, expensive, relatively heavy wheelset (for the money).
comfort? I ride a carbon bike...so I guess I don't find the wheels to be uncomfortable. I have several wheelsets- so I have something to compare them to.
Originally Posted by johnnny
Yes, the only difference is in weight.
However, the Elites have steel nipples, which seize after a month or two if they don't have regular service, and from there your wheelset are unserviceable.
I personally believe the SLs are incredibly uncomfortable due to their stiffness, and after about a year to 18 months, most of the rims crack. I believe the lack of comfort to cancel out any stiffness effects in long rides/races.
If comfort isn't a factor for you, and you are set on Mavics, then I would reccommend you order a set of SLs, but get your local bike mechanic to rebuild them. The factory build jobs are generally terrible. This will void the warranty, but you will end up with a far superior wheelset.