Which wheels for £500?

[swee'pea99]

Not quite sure what forum to post this in, but here goes...

With all due apologies for the pathetic pun...a friend has asked my advice re a wheel upgrade, and I thought you might be The Chaps Who Know, so without further ado...

I'm thinking of upgrading my wheels. The current wheels are entry level Mavic Aksium. I was hoping by spending around £500 pounds I'd be able to get a significantly better wheel and notice the difference -- for tri's sportive etc. I thought that it makes sense to go for a clincher though there's a Fulcrum that's recommended in bike radar that can be both clincher and tubeless. So I thought the two I've identified below -- a Mavic and a Fulcrum seem to be in the ball park -- any advice much appreciated!
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=23219
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/fulcrum-racing-3-2-way-fit-tubeless-wheelset-2013/
All fruits of experience, wisdom and etceteras much appreciated.

 

[gavintc]

Interesting, I have the Kysrium and my wife has the Fulcrum. Both were upgrades to standard wheels. My SLs have not survived as well as the Fulcrum, but I think I have done more miles in poorer weather. I had to replace the front wheel last year after 3-4 yrs use as the rim was getting thin. They are both very good wheels. Personally, I like the looks of the Fulcrum more - but I cannot complain about the service from the Kysrium. Both sets have kept true throughout their lives.

 

[PaulSecteur]

I have ksyrium elites, which are a model or 2 down from those and think they are great. However, Im on the chunky side so I appreciate there strength and stiffness but I can also feel they are harsh. I *think* mine have normal steel spokes, where the SL are a stiffer zircol that may even increase the stiffness,

If I was a lightweight I would be going straight to Dura-ace c24s and really comfortable. Very light and stiff... but I always worried about the low spoke count Vs Beer belly.

 

[AlanW]

Shimano RS80's - unbeatable value for the money

 

[derrick]

Mavics for me, loving mine.

 

[gavintc]

Planet X are doing some good deals at present - worth having a look before you decide.

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/WPSHRS80CA/shimano_rs80_c24_carbon_wheelset_(pair)
http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/WPSHRS8050/shimano_rs80_50mm_carbon_clincher_wheelset

and others.

 

[Alexvs]

Planet X are doing some good deals at present - worth having a look before you decide.

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/WPSHRS80CA/shimano_rs80_c24_carbon_wheelset_(pair)
http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/WPSHRS8050/shimano_rs80_50mm_carbon_clincher_wheelset

and others.

I've just posted about these in the bargains thread as if you add code UKSH300 then you get the C24's for £319.99 or the 50mm's for £549.99 which seems good value.