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wheelset recommendations for a noob?

Hi there,

This is my first cross season and I love it. I have been eyeing up some new rides but I think I will keep my steel Masi for another season until I am sure that I am ‘in it to win it’.

Until then I am thinking how to realize some weight savings. I have read the article on the site and I am considering a new wheelset and I’m wondering does anyone have any suggestions for a decent clincher set for under $400? I am considering the Fulcrum Racing 7

(I realize tubulars are the cross norm but I want the versatility of clinchers to swap with my road bike and to use my existing tire quiver)

Tags: 7, fulcrum, noob, racing, upgrades, wheels, wheelset

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Permalink Reply by JesseD on October 12, 2012 at 11:25am

The Fulcrum Racing 7's stated weight is 1,849g

The Mavic Aksium S stated weight is 1,735g

The Mavic Kserium Elite stated weight is 1,520g

Believe me, I know what a budget is and the pain of staying within it, that said if you have the $400 you could get a set of Aksiums and a couple different sets of tires. I can attest to the Aksiums, I have had a set on my cross bike for a very long time and they are pretty bomb proof, and mind you I'm pushing 300lbs. In my experience I have had no major issues other than having the rear wheel trued once.

If you really want a killer wheelset that is light and may outlast your frame, save a little more and get The Mavic Kserium Elite's.

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Permalink Reply by Geoffrey Grosenbach on October 12, 2012 at 12:50pm

Do not buy the Fulcrum Racing 7's. They are super heavy and you can get a used pair for cheap if you really need an extra pair of wheels. I have a pair in my closet that I'd be glad to take $200 for (plus shipping).

Revolution makes a nice lightweight inexpensive set of tubulars for $460 ($1490 grams): http://www.revolutionwheelworks.com/REV-25X.html

Or I've heard great things about Kseriums, as recommended by @JesseD.

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Permalink Reply by Graham Winterbottom on October 12, 2012 at 1:43pm

Thanks guys that is all some good feedback. The other idea I just had was maybe taking my Shimano R500s off my road bike and buying a lighter more performance set for that.