Build Advice

welkman

Hi,


I have been commuting for a few months on rough essex roads doing about 20 miles a day, 5 days a week. I am currently riding my merlin malt 1 with a rack and slicks. A few years ago I built a couple of MTBs but have no experince with road bikes. I have been looking at the Surly framesets as well as thorns club tours and audax frames. I like riding fast, but also like to be comfy so I am looking for a good balance of speed and comfort. I would also like to do a few days light weight touring next year.

I was hoping someone may be able to offer me some opinions on these frames and also reccomend me some wheels for my build (not too expensive).

Thanks

James

tommyd84

I can't comment on frame but wrt to wheels I'll assume you're on a budget.

I would recommend Fulcrum wheels, either the Racing 7's or 5's depending on how much dosh you have. They are very stiff, absolutely bombproof and comfortable. I live in Edinburgh and my Fulcrum Racing 7's take an absolute beating on the cobbles and horrific road conditions here and over 2 years and 5000miles I've not had one single problem. True all the way. It's also a a very comfortable wheelset with the right tyres.

Only slight disadvantage (if you want to call it that) is the freehub is extremely loud when freewheeling, but that is a minor detail, you soon get used to it. Average weight for the price.

welkman

Those wheels look good for the price. The roads I ride on have very rough surfaces and random potholes so its good to know they can survive in Edinburgh! I am veering more towards the cross check frame by surly as it seems pretty good for the price.