frantik

I got a single speed Bikesdirect bike off CL for way cheap. The frame is pretty nice, but the components leave a lot to be desired. I know what I want to do with most of the components, but I'm not sure about the wheels. The stock wheels are Jalco DRX-2000 rims laced to some no-name (joytech?) black hubs with sealed bearings.

I don't really have a problem with the wheels, though I've read that they taco easily and are hard to keep true. I'm going to be running fat tires (30mm-40mm) and riding aggressively through rough streets. If these wheels aren't going to hold up, I'd rather sell them on CL while they are still in good condition. The fact they are a fixie/SS wheelset will make them relatively easy to sell for decent $, especially if I wait a month or two until the weather improves.

So to replace those wheels, I was thinking of using a wheel set from the early 80s with Dura Ace EX hubs and Araya 700x14 rims. Unfortunately I couldn't use the rear hub, but at least I could use the rim. I'd love to use the DA hub and convert it to SS, but it's too wide for the 120mm drop outs.

Basically I guess I'm wondering if the Araya rims from 1980 are going to be more durable for city riding, if they will take fat tires, and if you think it's worth replacing the brand new wheels. Even though i've read horror stories about the new wheels, who knows, maybe I will be able to get a bunch of miles out of them.

on a side note, i kinda like the thought of putting a bunch of CV parts on a new frame.. kinda like a reverse retro roadie I've already put on a Shimano 600 EX crank with DA ring.. really classed it up

Bianchigirll 

I think you should true the wheels and give them a go. I suspect most of the people having troubel with the wheels are those who put it togather in the foyer with a multitool from Urban outfitters and never look at the wheels. I suspect if you give the wheels a good going over and check the tension, then put those big cushy tires on you'll have little trouble.

OH this is the F U right? Again I don't ride mine like I thought, I am so glad I didn't plunk down the $800 for San Jose or Pista like I really wanted, but I have little trouble with it.

puchfinnland

True them up and ride,

frantik

yep the Motobecane Fantom Cross Uno (that such a long name LOL).. it's pretty fun so far. I need to get fenders and fat, fully slick tires though. I have the stock kenda kwicks which have some knobbies and it's too easy to lose traction in turns.

I did a quicky true job on the rear wheel, need to open up my new truing stand and do it right. I also tightened all of the spokes a quarter turn since they seemed really loose. I doubt the PO did any kind of work on the bike so I assume they were like that from the factory. I was thinking that a lot of people were unlikely to tension and true the wheels which could lead them to fail even earlier.

NormanF

Jalco DRX 2000 are actually decent Taiwan-made bike wheels. They're not as prestigious as Weinmann and Mavic but they're light and strong and do the job. Mine are laced with Swiss DT double butted spokes. For a budget wheelset, they're hard to beat.

jyl

I would check tension and true, then use them.