New Bike, What Wheels.....?

[Robbo_123]

Hi all,

I'm a complete beginner when it comes to cycling. The last time I was on a bike it had an engine! Somehow I have managed to get roped in to cycling from London to Paris next year with a few friends. One is a very keen rider so has given me quite a bit of advice. So I basically have a bike set up but I'm stuck on what wheels to choose. I'm torn between either Fulcrum Racing Quattro LG or Mavic Cosmic Elite 25mm WTS. I'm open to other suggestions but I'm looking for input on these two wheels. Also I was planning on using Continental GatorSkin tyres, good idea or not?

Thanks!

 

[raleighnut]

Depends how heavy you are.

 

[DCLane]

Wheels and tyres are a personal choice. I'm presuming you've a bike already, or one with wheels? Then ride that. You don't need expensive wheels.

I use Conti GP4000S tyres as they're better in the wet than Gatorskins but that's my preference.

 

[cyberknight]

Gator skins = skater skins on wet corners

 

[Robbo_123]

Wheels and tyres are a personal choice. I'm presuming you've a bike already, or one with wheels? Then ride that. You don't need expensive wheels.

I use Conti GP4000S tyres as they're better in the wet than Gatorskins but that's my preference.

No I don't own the bike yet. These will be the wheels that will be fitted when I buy it.

 

[Robbo_123]

Depends how heavy you are.

I weight around 11st (69kg)

 

[derrick]

My wheels of choice are Mavic's. But have never used the Cosmic Elites, Have had problems with Fulcrums so i could not recommend them. But there are people who have had problems with Mavic's. (apparently). There are lots of good wheels around.

 

[vickster]

What's the bike? What wheels are on it at the mo?

 

[Robbo_123]

What's the bike? What wheels are on it at the mo?

I don't have a bike yet. I'm using an online bike builder so these wheels will be fitted with the new frame.

 

[raleighnut]

I weight around 11st (69kg)

You shouldn't have a problem with any 'low spoke count' wheels then unless you're planning on carrying a bunch of stuff.

 

[Robbo_123]

You shouldn't have a problem with any 'low spoke count' wheels then unless you're planning on carrying a bunch of stuff.

Cool, so either wheel would be a good bet? They are both a similar price I think the Mavic is like £50 more expensive. I don't plan on carrying a load of kit, I have a feeling I'm going to be needing all the help I can get.

 

[Robbo_123]

Gator skins = skater skins on wet corners

Ok no so not a great bet for our glorious UK weather haha. So regarding tyres in my price range I would have the following;

Schwalbe Durano RaceGuard Folding Tyre

Vittoria Rubino Pro G+ Isotech Folding Tyre

Continental GP4000S II Folding Tyre

Michelin Pro 4 Endurance V2 Folding Tyre

Vredestein Fortezza Senso All Weather

Any input as to which would be best?

Many thanks.

 

[derrick]

Have been using Vittoria Rubino Pro G+ Isotech Folding Tyre for the last 6 months or so, Good tyres,

 

[User33236]

Me, Mrs SG and SG junior use Schwalbe Durano RaceGuard Folding Tyre across a number of bikes, and have done so for some time, without issue.

 

[pawl]

Have been riding the Vittoria Pro25s for the last two months,hate them !seem to feel every minor lump and bump in the road.

Don't feel as supple the Michelin Endurance 23.ihave always used in there previous guises.
Will be changing back as soon as I can get to my LBS.Only had two P ~<>in the last two years.Cant comment on the25s performance.May give them a try come winter.