I think I have found the right balance. I've ordered the HED Belgium C2+ Rims, which are exactly the same rim as the HED Ardennes I have now. I went for a 24/32 front/rear.cyclotaur wrote:I suppose the extra weight all adds up (marginal gains/losses?) over250/320kms, but personally I'd happily use heftier, stronger wheels if I was attempting one of those big loop rides where you could end up a loooong way from assistance or a pick-up.
I guess it might depend on whether you're looking at simply completing a ride (definitely me most times) or aiming for a great time or a personal best (done this as well). I also reckon good rolling wheels are more important than lighter weight on longer rides. I've rolled past plenty of riders on lighter wheels that don't seem to roll that well. So I guess quality hubs are important as well.
Hope you find the right balance and give it another crack next year.
Hubs, about 90% sure they'll be DT Swiss. The 240s is the benchmark. The 180 Hubs are slightly lighter (30g total) and have Ceramic Bearings, but cost twice as much. Unless the bearings are significantly smoother I will go with the 240s, paired with DT Aerolite spokes.
As noted earlier, I am getting an extra 14 spokes on the wheelset for only a 35g weight increase, or if I go for the 180 Hubs, only a 5g increase in weight.
I am coming back for the 320km again next year, and having at least done some of the course now, I know what to expect and can plan accordingly. I rode far too conservatively up Hotham and out to Omeo. I was saving everything for Back of Falls where I was going to ramp it up. That is what annoys me the most. I did 200km including two big climbs, and it felt like I had only done the 25km commute to work! Let's just say that I have Strava Stalked a few riders from the 320km group, and I have a target elapsed time for 2018 that will put me at the pointy end