American Classic 420 Aero 3 or Fulcrum Racing 1 wheelset?

skygod49

Hi Folks,

I've got about £550 to upgrade my existing Bontrager Race X Lite wheelset (bought in 2005) and have these 2 on my shortlist. I'm 6ft 2in tall and weigh 95kg if it helps, and all I'm after is anyone who would like to give me their own experience of either of the above wheels.

I ride a 2005 Specialized S Works Tarmac and just want a set of wheels that will make the most of my efforts and maybe make me a little quicker for the same effort!

Thanks.[/b]

jordan_217

American Classic 420 Aero's are excellent. I bought a pair last year for my tri bike and haven't regretted it. At the time I couldn't afford/justify a pair of deep rim carbon wheels, so the AC 420's and Easton EA90 Aero's made my short list. For me, I made the right choice!

They've been on my Tri bike since and the rear only gets removed for turbo sessions. They went back to shop for a check after 500 miles and they were as good as the day I bought them.

Pros:

Light
Good build quality and finish
Look good
No noticeable flex (I was 83 kgs when I first used them)
Spin, accelerate and cruise well.
Rim depth is only 38mm, so they're suitable for any course/weather


Cons:

Fitting Conti GP4000S' was a real struggle so I bought some Schwalbe's.

Thats it!

I would love to buy a pair of 50mm carbon clinchers but I couldn't honestly justify it over these (not yet anyway, maybe next year).

Monty Dog

For your weight, I'd not recommend the AC420's - I have both AC420's and Campagnolo Shamals (similar to Fulcrum 1's except different spoking pattern). I only weigh 65kg and can get the AC's to flex / brake rub when giving it some stick - particularly the rear due to the narrow hub flange distance. The Shamals are far more robust and would be more suited to your weight. Likewise, you may be able to find some Ksyrium SLs at a decent price. I've no problem with theAC's - they are light and fast, but just not as stiff.

skygod49

Thanks for your thoughts, anyone rate Planet X Pro Carbon? I've never ridden carbon rims of any specification so need any experience you may have.

Cheers!