New wheels for Trek Madone 4.5

fishyweb

I need a new wheelset for my 2013 Trek Madone 4.5 after a crash left the rear stock Bontrager Race rim buckled to the extent that it can't be perfectly trued. I'd like to end up with wheels that are hopefully better than the Bontragers, and certainly not worse, but I've no experience with trying and comparing different wheels.

I've snooped around on Wiggle and the Shimano Ultegra 6800 and Campagnolo Zondas have caught my eye. They are about as expensive as I'd want to go. How would these compare to the wheels they'll be replacing?

FWIW Most of my riding is relatively short 20-30 mile fitness rides with the odd sportive. A mixture of flat and Chilterns climbs.

johngti

They're excellent wheels, you won't regret buying them. Zondas that is. Not tried 6800

Garry H

Zondas

fishyweb

Thanks. Can anyone confirm how either of these would compare to the Bontragers? Any other wheelsets I ought to consider?

mfin

fishyweb wrote:

Thanks. Can anyone confirm how either of these would compare to the Bontragers? Any other wheelsets I ought to consider?

Well, the rear one won't be buckled.

If Zondas are on your shortlist an on budget, just get them, nothing will be better at the price. IF you are super heavy though, go for handbuilts with a high spoke count.

timbo_tim

Zondas, I replaced my Bontrager Race on my emonda alr 6 and it made a big difference (albeit probably psychological) as certain familiar hills seemed shallower/easier due to the not inconsiderable weight difference. available for less than £300 at CRC with BC discount and can't see how you can get a better bang for your buck.

fishyweb

timbo_tim wrote:

Zondas, I replaced my Bontrager Race on my emonda alr 6 and it made a big difference (albeit probably psychological) as certain familiar hills seemed shallower/easier due to the not inconsiderable weight difference. available for less than £300 at CRC with BC discount and can't see how you can get a better bang for your buck.

Thanks, that's useful to know.