deep section wheels

[HandyAndy]

Hi Everyone, I am busy building a bike and I am looking for a set of racing wheels,my choices are zipps (404), mavic carbones, and american classics.

What would you guys recommend?I really like the carbon deep section wheels(zipps) but I'm worried about durability.I dont want to hit one pothole and have to throw the wheel away!
If I bought zipps, I would probably buy second hand, as they are so expensive (ebay here I come!).

Any thoughts on these wheels?

[JohnO]

Fellow riders who have splurged on the Zipps report that they are somewhat fragile, probably not an everyday wheel especially given the high cost. Unless you're seriously competing, you probably won't get a good return on the rather high investment these wheels require.

You might look at some of the aluminum aero wheels, such as Rolf or Mavic Kysrium. I have been riding Rolf Vector Pro wheels, very aero, quite durable, and reasonably priced - $300 for a set on ebay is a common price. Only downside is the rather stiff ride.

[dirtrider]

I've been riding a set of 2003 Zipp 404 Clinchers as my everyday wheels for a couple thousand miles now. They seem to be very robust, having given no indication that they won't last many years and thousands of miles. Very satisfied with them so far. A friend who weighs around 215-220lbs has been riding a set of American Classic CR 420 wheels built 18/24 with bladed spokes as his everyday wheels. They've held up nicely as well.

[BikingBrian]

I've been riding Mavic Carbones for 4 seasons now, and am VERY pleased....centuries, TT's, and crits, no problem. I've even run into a curb in a crit. (pilot error) They are still true! The Mavic hubs are sweet, as well - very smooth. The only downside is the weight penalty - they are about 1900 grams for the set; I don't use them on courses which have extensive climbing. Don't be fooled by the name - the "carbon" is only a fairing over a very stiff aluminum rim, similar to the Ksyrium shape, and doesn't make up the actual structure of the rim. Also, they are incredibly stiff - simply made to go fast. If that is what you want, you will probably like them. Stay away if you're also looking for comfort.

[mtndog]

WE're in a similar predicament. Another option I'm considering is building up a pair of Zipp hubs 24 F, 28R with Ritchey Aero WCS rims and Sapim CX-ray spokes. This setup provides lighter weight than carbon rims, more durability and more affordability/repairability. Probably not the "deep section" look you are looking for though. Any thoughts on this?