Replacing Ultegra 6800 rim

thomasmorris

I have a set of Ultegra 6800 wheels since December. They've done 11,000k and the front rim is just loosing the wear indicator.

I would like to just replace the rim as the hubs and spokes are in top knick (never need truing or bearings greased).

However, I can't find the rims to buy anywhere. Do I have to take them to a shimano approved dealer to be rebuilt and rim sourced? Does anyone have a cost for the rim alone (i know teh wheel build will vary from shop to shop)?

Thanks

Grill

It's not even remotely cost effective as the rim (if you can get it) is almost as much as the wheel.

Get a set of handbuilts on 6800 hubs.

ugo.santalucia

As above, Shimano spare rims, when available are silly priced

rs6mra1

A couple of my mates use Ultegra wheelsets and when I asked why would one buy a hand built wheelset with Ultegra hubs over an Ultegra wheelset, the response was when the rims are worn you are basically stuffed. With hand built wheels you just replace the rim (bearing in mind the choice of rims also) and off you go.......

trailflow

Alternatively you could use a cheaper 16 hole rim. Like this
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/cole/c24-alloy-700c-16-hole-rim-ec028912?country=GB&currency=GBP&esvt=1066-GOUKE395582&esvq=&esvadt=999999-0-33992-1&esvcrea=61234455656&esvplace=&esvd=c&esvaid=50080&gclid=CJmUiePJoccCFUL4wgodPsoEFg

Probably need new spokes if the measurements are different.

The Shimano rim is £89.99 here. not sure if its the 6700 version and is compatible though.
http://www.petracycles.co.uk/wh-ultegra-rim-700c-16-hole/

Once you factor in spokes and build cost if you dont know how to do it yourself its going to start to add up

a front 6800 wheel is currently £122.44 at Wiggle
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/shimano-ultegra-6800-front-wheel/

i know which i'd choose.

thomasmorris

Thanks, that's confirmed what I feared. I reckon I've got another 1-2,000 km in them yet. Will just replace with hand builts after and get a separate set of 'racing wheel's'.