I've got a Raleigh 20 I'd like to make lighter. I know using alloy wheels (20x1.75 406) will get me started but I'm not sure which ones to get. I was looking at Velocity Taipans since they're 400 grams.

Also could anyone point me in the right direction regarding replacing my handlebar stem and seat post?

The Tiapans look like a good way of going. Sun CR-18s and Rynolites are also good with the selling point of also being available in silver and Chrome.

Weinman makes some too. I think that is what is on my bike at the moment. I do plan on getting some of the Rhyno lites is polished silver for the other one.

Aaron

I have Rhyno lites on my 20. The front rim is polished to look like chrome and the rear rim IS chrome and much heavier than the front. I got the rims off a bmx bike at a police auction for $15. My bmx friends tell me the heavy chrome rear wheel is best for braking. I went with a Cane Creek Thudbuster ST seat post. Its about 4 inches longer than a stock seatpost, has some much needed boingy boingy and requires a shim.

I purchased a used BMX and used the wheels from it, it had 451 rims which I prefer over the 406's. The front fork is 90mm and the BMX is 100mm I purchased a 6" long bolt and spread the front fork and it worked just fine.

Try on here https://raleightwenty.webs.com/ all different answers to your question.Some one used a whole kids bike for an upgrade,fork wheels gears brakes,for not a lot of money.

Are you happy with your Rhynos? I checked them out and they're just as light as the Velocity rims at about half the price. I don't need anything fancy, just some light rims that'll serve me well and won't kill my wallet.

Does chrome or silver finish affect stopping power?

No on the Rhynos that are polished the side walls where the brakes ride are a machined surface.

Aaron