I recently purchased a bike frame for pretty cheap to replace my recently stolen Raleigh beater, and want to make a fixed gear for the remainder of fall and possibly the winter. I'm looking to get a pretty cheap wheelset for it. I'm leaning towards getting Weinmann DP 18's, for only $140 for the set.(https://www.amazon.com/Weinmann-DP18-...9160318&sr=1-1) I've heard they're heavy, but pretty bulletproof.

I've also been looking at these:https://www.amazon.com/Fixie-Freewhee...ref=pd_sbs_sg1. I'm not sure the make or much about them though.

I'm planning on putting at least a front brake on it. I've heard you can put a brake on a non-machined rim, but I don't have any experience with that.

If anyone could give me any input it'd be greatly appreciated.

Sorry about your bike. I would try these:

https://www.velomine.com/index.php?ma...roducts_id=470

Cheap and really good for the money.

...and putting a brake on a non-machined rim is generally Ok, however with "V" profile rims it can cause structural damage to the rim. The only thing that would happen would be the paint rubbing off.

if you run a brake on a non-machined wall, expect it to squeal like hell and not do anything in the rain/wet stuff..

and it squeals like hell

If you want to run a front brake, then get a set with a front machined rim.

Any idea how the Mavics would compare to the Weinmanns in terms of life length and durability?