Originally Posted by
nesdog
I've read plenty of threads on specific wheels. What I'm looking for is some information about general specs; ie....are normal rims heights 18mm, 19, 23, 25 27? Is a mid range spoke count about 25 or 32?
This way I have some basis for understanding a bit more about the products.
My standard build for people is now a 30mm deep Niobium rim (strong and light), 28 rear (2X) and 24 front (radial if the hub will take it). My sets come in around the 1500g range and cost less than $500 (less than $400 when I build them for myself, $400 for friends, $500 to johnny off the street whom I normally don't build for because I don't need the added liability).
Low spoke count is done for looks/fashion in anything other than high end race wheels. The low count results in a lot of strength (weight) having to be added to the rim in order to compensate. If you pulled your Xero rims and weighed them you'd see that first hand. The "aero" advantage of low spoke count is laughable.
Add some spokes and end up with a lighter overall wheel.