RedRacer wrote:I highly doubt any pre-built wheel, especially the low spoke count Rolfs, will ever be -as- strong and durable as a custom built set of wheels using 28 or 32 hole hubs/rims, which can be built to a similar weight with the right hub choice, etc.
That doesn't mean that the Rolfs won't be strong -enough- for you though.
I am not trying to be a smart ass (seriously!) but can someone please explain to me how a combination of various parts from different mfgs put together by an independent operator with no particular engineering knowledge of the parts can be lighter, stiffer and stronger than an pre-built set?
Well i think other experts here would agree when i say that wheel builders tend to put more effort and time in a build then most large manufactured pre-built wheels.
Building a good wheel ain't just about it being round or high tensioned or trued but the little things like pre-stressing and maybe soldering or certain choice of spokes and lacing patterns help make a perfect set of wheels. I.e. the claim of stronger, lighter and the personal touch basically.
Large manufacturers have a certain set time in their wheel builds but independent wheel builders have alittle more to spare.
I for one take 45min to an hour for just one wheel.
Hope this helps, if not you can wait for more famous wheel builders on the board to give you a more satisfying answer.