Originally posted by pedalhome
Hmmm...interesting. Well, it comes down to a couple of things in my opinion. Are you looking for something chi-chi looking like the Ksyriums? Or, do you want total functionality and dependability?
I race as a Cat 1 and have to tell you, I've never lost a race because of the wheels I was using (trust me, I can lose a race all by myself). But, MAN is it annoying when a spoke gets broken on my super-fancy, factory built wheelset while in transport to a race. It happens - and it's next to impossible to fix on the fly. I say this, cause fixing a broken spoke on a Ksyrium is not an easy ordeal...well, that's what I think, anyway.
Instead, what I would suggest would be to get a set of wheels built for you. D-Ace hubs, 36 spoke count, Mavic Open-Pro rims. Honestly, you could probably get away with 32 spoke and never have a problem. Getting them built correctly is important, but it's not rocket science to build up a traditionally laced 32 or 36 spoker (again, in my opinion). And with this set, if a spoke or two is broken - every shop in the universe will have the right spoke for replacement. And, you're wheelset will not suffer unduly for the replacement either (which can be an issue with some wheelsets built under pressure by machinery).
We've got 2 really good wheelbuilders at our shop who've been doing it for decades. Check shops in your town, I bet they do too.
One idea is to contact a local racing club. The folks will be in the know about who has a strong reputation as a wheelbuilder.
Oh, and what about aerodynamics? yikes...
Just my 2 cents and best of luck,
Michael