What are key factors in wheel choice?

JamesB

So many wheels to choose from, factory built , hand built, semi aero, box rims etc etc.

For general riding including sportives (and no racing / TT use) on all types road surfaces from super smooth tarmac to rough partly potholed country lanes, ]what would be the key factors to look at, bearing mind my weight is 80kg and potentail budget <£500 .

Does the improved aerodynamics of a semi aero (eg 30mm profile V rims) low spoke count, overall offset the heavier rim weight v a box rim with a higher spoke count?

If I`m not sprinting how important a factor is rigidity v comfort of a more flexible wheel?

How important to overall equation are good pliable low rolling resistance tyres, eg Mich Pro 3?

thanks in advance for replies

bendertherobot

How lush they look on my bike.

JamesB

good point, missed that one out; even better with multi colour tyres I bet too

bendertherobot

Dual colour. None of this rainbow crap!

balthazar

In order: durability, repairability, rim availability (they wear out from braking, and you'll want to be able to find replacements).

Long behind those concerns: the other stuff you mentioned.

JamesB

Thanks, so a good well built `solid` wheel seems to be way to go although on balance of availabilty of replies looks get a high portion of votes

Monty Dog

I have about a eight different pairs of road wheels, from Open Pros on Record, Shamals, Ksyriums, American Classic through to carbon race wheels. Each has different characteristics and are better suited to different styles of riding. The American Classics with 30mm rims and aero spokes are noticeably faster at higher speed than the Open Pros for example and are probably the best all-rounders IMO.

ravey1981

Monty Dog wrote:

The American Classics with 30mm rims and aero spokes are noticeably faster at higher speed

Sorry, couldn't resist