Looking for some input on a PowerTap wheel build. I'm getting a new set of wheels with the rear built around a PowerTap 2.4 wireless hub. I weigh 150 lbs and currently use a pair of Ksyrium SLs for training and racing. This wheelset (the PT set) will also be used for racing and training in Texas (so not very hilly). Here are my options:
1. DT Swiss RR1.1 rims with DT revolution spokes (28 radial front and 28 2x rear) and 240 front hub. Total weight about 1650 grams and cost about $1,650.
2. DT Swiss RR1.2 rims with DT revolution spokes (28 radial front and 28 2x rear) and 240 front hub. Total weight about 1950-2000 grams and cost about $1,650.
3. Nobium 30 rim with speedcific front hub and Sapim CX-Ray spokes (20 radial front, 24 rear 2x). About 1,650 grams and $1,650.
4. Blackwell Research 50mm carbon clincher rim with speedcific front hub and Sapim CX-Ray spokes (18 radial front and 24 2x rear). About 1,650 grams and $1,850.
So hear are my thoughts.
1. Nice light set-up and should be pretty bomb-proof (although I have heard of some problems with the DT Swiss single eyelet RR1.1s). However, not very aero.
2. Totally bomb-proof, a little more aero than the RR1.1s, but very heavy. Although there seems to be a lot of data out there to suggest that the weight doesn't really matter at all compared to aero.
3. Aero and lighter than the RR1.2s, but I have heard of some issues with the Nobiums.
4. Amazing deal at $1,850, plus very aero. However, I worry about carbon clinchers for an everyday wheel (training rides, on the indoor trainer, etc.). Plus I've heard that carbon clincher braking is OK at best. However, I also know people that ride exclusively on Bonty carbon clinchers that have never had a problem.
Suggestions?