Wheel advice (Carbons)

Northernsoul Man

Thinking of buying a carbon wheelset, I'm currently using Aksiums - but I'm an Heavy rider (15 stone) - wonder if the wheels are ok for us heavy riders, or would I be better with the Aksiums, as you can see from my weight, I'm not a weight weenie, but I think the carbon wheels look great, and in comparison regarding flex, staying true, riding with tubulars, wonder if any of you cycle nuts can advise me, many thanks to all.

markos1963

If you are heavier then its best to get a wheelbuilder to make them up for you. They can advise you on spoke count and strength. You might not get as light a wheel as you might hope for but at least it will look good and last longer.

Try hear for a start
http://www.wheelsmith.co.uk/index.htm

I got a set of 50mm carbons from him that are around 1450gms and are strong enough for my 14stone frame.

Other wheelbuilders are available

Northernsoul Man

Hi Mark, thanks for the quick reply, so you're saying the "stock" carbons are a little hit and miss. Wondering about maintenance as well. Don't get me wrong, the Aksiums are a good wheel , yes, they flex a little but for a stock wheel they are ok. I run Khamsins on my winter bike, and they are ok to. Never used tubs before, any advice would be welcome, been riding now, a while, and thoroughly enjoying it, but I wish it would get a little warmer, 1st 50 miler of the year on Wednesday - bloody cold!!!!!!!!

markos1963

By 'stock' if you mean factory then I don't have any direct experience. Have heard that Dura Ace and American Classic wheels are v good but most are out of my price range anyway. Going to use tubs for TT's and racing but there is nothing to stop you from using tubs for all round riding. If you speak to Derek then he'll talk you through the in's and out's for tubs. He even fitted mine to the wheels before delivery!

Main advantage for using tubs are weight and feel at high pressures as well as ridability after a puncture.

Northernsoul Man

Thanks Mark, Yeah I know what you mean!!, really expensive, just had a look at the site - not too bad, the gigantex 50's look lovely, I don't race or TT just use cycling for work and health reasons, tried jogging, but with my weight, the knees don't like it as i say, done my first 50 miler of the year from my house (Rowley Regis) to Ironbrige (Telford), great going there averaged about 26 KPH, but with a stiff Easterly in my face on the way back, really struggled, I think I need to do a few more 30 - 40 milers before trying any more distance, thanks again Paul

Northernsoul Man

Oh, By the way, Mark like the Orbea and that retro winter with down tube shifters takes me back a bit, I can remember my first Carlton Pro AM, I think it was a 12 speed with the "winged" quick release, Oh those were the days!!!