So, I've been talking with a custom wheel builder about getting a set built with HED C2 rims, White Industries (H2/H3) hubs, and Sapim CX-Ray spokes. Total build cost is ~$800. I planned on doing black rims (only option with HED), silver nipples, black spokes, and silver hubs. I really wanted the HED rims, because I wanted 23mm width ... and the builders with whom I've spoken recommended them over Velocity A23 rims.
Now, here's my conundrum: my wife spied a picture of some wheels with red hubs and really loved the look. Since I have a Cervelo bike, she thought it would be really cool. For most of the wheel builders I've seen, to get "red" ... I'd have to step up to Chris King R45 hubs (or Alchemy, or even more money). This would blow my budget ($800), however. So, if I stepped up the hubs ... I'd probably have to go with a cheaper rim, my choice being Kinlin XR270 or XR300.
Do I care about red hubs? No. But, my wife is really supportive of my cycling hobby (and spending). So I wanted to consider it! /img/vbsmilies/smilies/wink.gif
So, if you had your choice, would you go for higher level rims? Or higher level hubs? Are Chris King's better than White Industries hubs? Or is it simply more color options?
Scott
Now, here's my conundrum: my wife spied a picture of some wheels with red hubs and really loved the look. Since I have a Cervelo bike, she thought it would be really cool. For most of the wheel builders I've seen, to get "red" ... I'd have to step up to Chris King R45 hubs (or Alchemy, or even more money). This would blow my budget ($800), however. So, if I stepped up the hubs ... I'd probably have to go with a cheaper rim, my choice being Kinlin XR270 or XR300.
Do I care about red hubs? No. But, my wife is really supportive of my cycling hobby (and spending). So I wanted to consider it! /img/vbsmilies/smilies/wink.gif
So, if you had your choice, would you go for higher level rims? Or higher level hubs? Are Chris King's better than White Industries hubs? Or is it simply more color options?
Scott