Today my rear wheel failed. Spoke pulled through the rim. Two years old, Bontrager Select. This wheel replaced a Mavic CXP 33 which lasted two years. Does any one else have wheel failure at this rate? I have ordered a 36 spoke Mavic Open Pro on an Ultegra hub. Should be here tomorrow in time for Wed group ride. My fingers are crossed (in the 3 cross pattern no doubt.)

I've had that happen to CXP 33's, Open Pro's, GP4's, all kinds. Thats why I carry along a spoke wrench. Just in case it happens 10 miles from home and it's rubbin' the frame.

I seem to have poor track records with inexpensive machine built wheels. I seem to do OK with customs, or ones I have built. 2 years on Bonty Selects is pretty good. They are not a very good wheel, and I know you do a ton of riding.

Those OP/Ultegras should work out nice. Just keep your fingers crossed in that 3X - don't try a crows foot configuration.

So I have replaced the back wheel on both my bikes this year. I am glad I hadn't spent on a lot of other bike related items this year as in years past, so not too much scorn from the wife. I had a wheel built for me for the touring bike, Salsa Delgado 29'er rim to XT centerlock disc hub with DT 14 ga spokes, all black. The back triangle on the Kona is black, the old wheel was silver, the new wheel makes the bike look kinda NASCAR'ish. The road wheel is a Quality Wheelhouse built Mavic Open Pro to Ultegra hub with DT spokes. The LBS checked it over when it came in and gave their "seal of approval." Both are 36 spoke 3 cross lacing. Hope I can get more than 2 years out of them. They both seem to have good reviews, so I'll find out.