Finally got the okay to order a new set of wheels for my road bike. My current wheels weren't cutting it. Broke a few spokes on the rear wheel that came on my bike, so I picked up a used Alex Wheels rim on a generic Shimano hub, it wasn't heavy, but it coasted like I was pulling a boat anchor.

Since I am not a small guy, about 218lbs and I sometimes ride with my rear rack with 15lbs on it, I went to my local bike shop to see what they would recommend. First question they had was "do you race". That's a big no. I said I was look for strength over weight.

So they recommended a set of Velocity wheels. After looking at a few I settled on a set of Velocity Chukker rims, 32 spokes laced to their Velocity hubs. Should be in early next week.

They are a little heavier than some of their other rims, but these should be bomb proof for years. The only draw back I see is I can't run my 23c tires, smallest tire they recommend with those wheels is 25c. Probably will pick up a set of 28c tires.

So did I go too overboard in the quest for rock solid wheels?

Link to the rims
https://www.velocityusa.com/default.asp?contentID=700

For your application it looks like your shop did right by you.

Go with the 25c or even 28c tires (if you frame can handle it) and enjoy.

Quite to the contrary, that sounds like the perfect wheelset for you.

Thanks. Like most people, whenever a spend a chunk of money, I always second guess it till I get the actual item.



Probably going to go with 28c tires. I currently rode 23c tires and it appears I have room all around (chain stays and fork) for larger/wider tires.

+1

I think you have found a good and honest bike shop that is also knowledgeable about wheels - a rarity.

For your purposes and at your weight (similar to me), the 32-spoke rear wheel and a 25mm or even 28mm tire at 110-120 psi would feel great and would be practically bomb proof. I would recommend a high quality tire like the Continental GP4000s in 25mm or maybe the Vittoria Open Pave CG in 27mm if you can them.

Mark

I think people are finally realizing the benefits of wider tires at lower pressures for overall comfort and durability. I'd say you did really well with your purchase.

Wheels came in today. These are bad ass. Extremely well built and not nearly as heavy as I thought. The rear wheel is with 50 grams of the Vuelta XRP Pro 24 spoke wheel.


I did not buy tires, as the shop was out of decent 28s. So I went home and looked at my bike again and again. Then I pulled out my calipers and started measuring clearances. I think my front fork is too skinny for 28c tires. I measured 31mm where the widest part of the tire is. So with 28c tires, thats 1.5mm on each side. That just seems too small.


So Amazon Prime to the rescue. I ended up with a pair of 25c Vittoria Zaffiro Pro II Fold Tire.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ls_o00_s00_i00

Sounds like a great setup. Enjoy your ride.