Rohc

Down to Three Choices

Shimano Dura-ace 7580 SL
Mavic Kyserium SL
Mavic Open Pro 28F 32R

Any ideas?

Sinn

I have the 7850sl's. Very solid wheel. Spins up fast, very stiff even with the lower spoke count (the design of the rims and the hubs have alot to do with this), is heavier than the 7850cl's but the weight on the wheel is very well placed -- that is, not at the rim -- so that it is still a decent climbing wheel. It really shines with the Hutchinson Tubeless tires. The combination provides excellent grip with low rolling resistance. So they are great on fast descents, sharp fast turns, etc. The ride quality is like that which you get from a tubular in many ways because you can run it with lower PSI. I weigh 155 and I run them at 85 PSI. This provides a very smooth, solid ride that does not at all feel squishy.

Also, when you put the Hutchinson sealant in there, it will take alot to flat. Basically, you will have to slice the tire open. Usually, when I ride with these tires, I don't bring any extra tubes. I do bring a pump on longer rides, just in case I hit a staple or something. But the fastair seals the holes and I just pump it back up. The DA hubs are really great too. Quick engagement and stiff. And they cut through cross-winds really well.

The only problems with this wheel is that it is 1) a bit on the heavy side, but it is still not too heavy and 2) the rim is not as aerodynamic as deep carbon rims.

So, in general, it seems to me that they are a good wheel for climbing and flying down the descents without the fears that come along with tubulars (that is, if you are a strong climber), racing on rough roads, training (if you aren't paranoid about wrecking them on a training ride), and races where the bike-handling conditions are not ideal (windy crits, rainy days, etc).

Spookykinkajou

I sort of am in the same boat although I'm definitely not considering Kysrium wheels. I think they are overpriced by a...LOT, or perhaps it's more accurate to just say I think they are a waste of money. Custom wheels are lighter, hubs are better, and just as strong if you get them built by the right person.

The dura-ace are interesting though since they take tubeless tires and they also have a very low spoke count and I'm assuming a very light rim. I looked around but could not find a weight for the rim itself. I would take them any day over the Kysriums.

That said, I still think you get more bang for the buck with customs. Ligero SLW are great custom wheels that should be considered.

If you are going for durability and appearance any of your choices will be fine. If you are going for weight the dura-ace or customs should be on top.

Consider Dt Swiss R1.1 rims, a bit more aero and similar weight vs the open pros, and I think a slightly better rim. Or, for more aero check out niobium 30mm rims.

BarracksSi

So... um, let's see... that's everywhere but TTs?

Sinn

Or other races where a lighter wheel might be needed (such as long climbing races).

BarracksSi

Ah, ok. What you wrote makes me want to put tubeless on my commuter bike, too.

bigtea

The answer is D, none of the above. Get some Eastons

Sinn

Which Eastons?

bigtea

I like the EA90s and ride the SLs because I'm a clyde.

Sinn

I'd still go with DA wheels.

Sinn

They don't make wheels for clydes though, so I understand why you would go with Easton.