A friend rides the Ascents (not the IIs) and loves them. I've posted on different threads about these wheels. We swapped and I rode them and she rode my Shimano 7700s. I stand by my observation that the 7700s are stiffer but the Ascents roll like you wouldn't believe and climb remarkably well. You won't go wrong with them. Also (for me), Velomax is local (Long Beach, CA [right?]). FWIW, she bought the Ascents from Supergo on clearance for ~$400. Absolutely no comparison between either wheelset and the Dura Ace/Open Pros on my older road bike.

Best.