What Do You Get On $$$ Wheelsets?

Simply put, it varies. But for general use, you ought to be able to get a better ratio between lightweight, low maintenance, and ruggedness.

What you may lose is convenience. For example, Campy Neutrons are really great riding wheels, but they are a true hassle whenever you need to touch up the truing--you need first to pull off the tires.

Low spoke count wheels for time trialing tend to require regular retensioning of spokes.

A standard set of cross three 32 spoke wheels with decent rims and hubs will often have greater reliability and convenience than the majority of pre-built high end wheelsets--and will be considerably cheaper. For non-competitive use, this is probably the best way to go. Although a very stiff and lightweight set of wheels are truly a joy to ride, especially when climbing. It's been said that putting a few $ into a great wheel set offers more bang for the buck than putting those same $ into a frame upgrade. Probably true.

One great exception to the norm: Mavic Ksyirium ssl's. These wheels are durable, low maintenance, rugged, look great and are somewhat lighter than conventional wheels. They ride superbly and don't appear to require any negative trade offs. They are so rugged that they've been used on racing TANDEMS.

They're pricey, but if you buy them in the UK or Ireland over the Web, you can save about 40 percent over American prices, even including the cost of shipping.