Re: [CR] Tubular question

(Example: Bike Shops)

From: "Earle Young" <earle.young@tds.net>
To: <agura@earthlink.net>, <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: Re: [CR] Tubular question
Date: Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:39:55 -0600


Andrew asked:
>i'm wondering if anyone can make a recommendation >for a vintage tubular rim for street use.
>preferably something on the stronger side (as i weigh >around 190), 700c, and somewhat easily tracked down >on ebay.
>i have a pair of gold mavic rdm's on another bike but >i've been told that they're a little light for hitting potholes >and such.

My recommendation would be a MAVIC GP-4, which is fairly common, heavy and tough, or the older Mavic Sur Route, also heavy and tough. Build these with 2.0-1.8-2.0 mm butted spokes and use the biggest profile tubulars you can find.

Wheels like that should help cushion your ride and keep you from breaking wheels, but you might also work a little harder at avoiding potholes. Deep, sharp-edged potholes will break any wheel if you hit them hard without unweighting your bike some.

ymmv

Earle Young Madison, Wisc. Offering expert wheelbuilding services for classic and modern bikes