I'd been longing for a nice set of race wheels for the mountain bike for some time. I'd been looking at parts online, comparing price versus weight versus performance, and trying to find that optimal blend of the three. I'd looked at some of the high end wheel sets that were available, but decided I could spec out each piece on my own and build something close enough without spending as much money. So I ended up with Mavic XC 717 Disc rims, Wheelsmith XL14 spokes, Wheelsmith alloy nipples, a Cannondale Lefty hub for the front, and a Chris King hub for the rear. I mounted a Shimano XT cassette, the rotors that came with my Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes, and some random light wieght tire I found in my dad's garage for the rear. A Kenda Karma stick-E on the front. I'm rather pleased, the best wheels I've built yet too. I should clarify, the best I've built a set of wheels yet, they've held true through the first round of beating.
On a side note, a cyclist I met a few years ago, pointed me in the direction of a blog some friends of his had started. Joe's friends are riding across the country, in a speedy sort of way. Since I have a life goal to accomplish just such a task, though likely a bit slower to stop and see things, I've been following along. You might enjoy their journey as well. Follow along here.
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About the Author
- scycle
- Scott is your standard amateur cyclist. Cat 1 cross country mountain bike racer and a category 3 cyclocross racer he participates in a number of regional competitive events, but enjoys the soul of cycling and the simplicity of the ride. Recounting experiences and telling stories has become part of the riding, racing and traveling he does. This is the home for those stories. Toast yourself a bagel and enjoy your experience.
My Bikes
- Cannondale F500 - This bike is where it all began to spin out of control. For a long time it was the only bike. It has many good years and has seen many lives. These days the only original part on the bike, other than the frame itself, is the seatpost. The front derailleur would almost count, but it has been removed since the bike's current life is as a Single Speed.
- Scattante R-650 - Full of good parts and a mid-grade frame, this bike has taken me all over. It has been a trusty steed on the tarmac.
- Cannondale Scalpel - This highly specialized cross country racing mountain bike elevated my riding on the trails. With Shimano XTR drivetrain components it is the ultimate in off road racing machines.
- Blue CX 5.5 - The source of my most recent and ever growing passion, cyclocross. This is the latest bike to join my growing stable and has served well. It takes quite a beeting but stands up to the punishment. A combination of mid to upper level components and wheels makes this a fast machine on any 'cross course.
Books Recently Read
- Andy Pruitt's Complete Medical Guide for Cyclists
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