tomcat

I'm currently riding Elites but was thinking about upgrading to SLs. Only 205 gram difference. The SLs have the Zigral alum spokes and alloy nipples vs stainless steel/brass on the Elites. Same hub and rims except the SL rims are "shaved". My questions are....is it worth the $ to change?....is the weight savings really felt in the rims (i.e. are the SLs better climbing wheels)? My initial opinion was that if the weight savings are in the spokes that it wouldn't affect climbing that much over my Elites. My goal is to improve climbing weight. Input appreciated.


tomcat

sydney

How much extra bacon are you dragging around?

galen_52657

LOL.... 5 lb slab prolly....

tomcat

nope....you're talking to a lean mean riding machine...5'10' @ 160 lbs. Now, move on along so others may respond who have actual useable information.


tomcat

tomcat

BTW, Stand Up was the best Tull album.


tomcat

53-11 alltheway

Depends on how much the rims are shaved.....and where they are shaved. If they took the weight off the braking surfaces that would reduce the lifespan of the rim and make me want to relegate SL's for races only. Alloy nipples will reduce weight also, but on a low spoke rim it shouldn't be nearly as noticeable (less nipples total)

It is true that lightening the spokes or hubs won't affect climbing nearly as much as weight savings at the rim.

I was told that SL rims were 435-450 grams (no rim tape needed though)......I was never able to verify that weight. If it is true......SL's aren't really that light at all.

sydney

Well, unless you are tryng to keep up with top amatures that are blowing you off.I wouldn't bother. But maybe the bling and poseur' points are worth more to you than me.

rustychain

If I was buying just one I would go with the SLs but I would not fork over so much money for the same basic wheel. I would suggest, base on your intent to go with a light climbing wheel or perhaps something a bit mor areo. Please understand that I love my SLs, they are great wheels but for a second set I would choose something that might serve other purposes

galen_52657

The Elites are good enough for me so they are good enough for you...

coolcamden

Agree with Rustychain. If you're getting one, get the SL's. I love mine. But don't fork over more money to upgrade from Elite's. Get something more drastically different.

tomcat

man...tough crowd.

Sydney.....you're a class act.

galen......so, you know me? Maybe I deserve better than you.

53-11....the shaving is not on the brake area, it's more on the crown of the rim between spokes. I'm not sure about the weight of the SLs versus the Elites and Equipes. They all have the same hub and rim but SL rims are shaved to reduce the weight.

rusty...I may have a chance to trade in my Elites for some used SLs at my LBS. I'm just wondering if the weight difference would be that noticable in climbing and worth a couple hundred dollars.


tomcat

gabiker

If they have a used set why don't you see if you can use them for a ride or two and then make up you mind. By the way I love my SL's as well.

JBar

You deserve the best, Tomcat. You don't need these guys to give you shxt. You've got me!! See ya on the river or the road. JB

galen_52657

Feel the luv.....

55/Rad

Great line.

Judge not lest ye be judged. Even if it's only something as simple as a bicycle.

55/Rad

tomcat

I figure you all have plenty to spare.


tomcat

edmaverik

LOL... get a part time job at a LBS, join a local team and enjoy getting a employee/team discount!

I have my SL's coming soon. I love my Elite's but the SL's have a much lively feel.

Berodesign

I usually eat it for breakfast, not carry it around