The Plushest ROAD Wheel (700c)?

[53-11]

I think you'd want a box rim (mavic open pro). I'd probably go with a high spoke count, but reduce the guage of the spokes so the wheel is more elastic.

I think this is what the pros do on those really rough courses.

 

[lokstah]

The gaps would only allow more flex if manufacturers took the same rim and just drilled fewer hole in it. But the fewer spokes you have, the more stress there is in the rim where each spoke connects to it. Consequently the walls of the rim have to be thicker.

If I remember correctly, doesn't the typical low-spoke pattern design involve particularly high tensions as well?

 

[EatingPie]

If I remember correctly, doesn't the typical low-spoke pattern design involve particularly high tensions as well?

I believe so, and it typically involves a much stiffer rim (according to my LBS). This makes sense, and would explain why the Bontrager Race X Lites I tried out were rougher than my Mavics.

The Topolino has a relatively low profile, so that's a plus. Hoping to get some feedback on that wheel still...

-Pie

 

[53-11]

I think you'd want a box rim (mavic open pro). I'd probably go with a high spoke count, but reduce the guage of the spokes so the wheel is more elastic.

I think this is what the pros do on those really rough courses.

http://oddsandendos.safeshopper.com/11/cat11.htm?175 (there is some spoke information if you are trying to figure in the spoke stiffness)