Bob,
I just replaced my R40 Deore/Alex DA16 wheels with the Velocity Thracians.
I weighed them during the switch. The front Thracian is 200 gr lighter and
the rear one is 425 gr lighter. That's well over a pound of weight. Also
saving weight on the wheels/tires results in a much greater energy saving
than on the seat. I use a 406X32 IRC Metro (285 g.) and 559X32 Avocet
Fasgrip City K (395g.) I have had zero problems with flats although I only
have about 1000 miles on them. I ride mostly pavement, but some of it is
very rough. If you can't afford the Velocity wheelset try some lighter
tire/tube combos. My only complaint is the rear Avocet seems to have less
traction than I would like. The IRC Metro might be better if you can find
it in 559X32. Problem is you can seldom find the right tires for front and
rear at the same source. I think Hostel Shoppe has the best selection.
There are good folks to deal with. Mark

"Bob Slebodnik" wrote in message
om...
I am interested in making my 2003 Rans Velocity Squared (XL) a bit
lighter and faster. I have considered using the new, lighter Zephyr
seat and switching to Velocity Thracian wheels and faster tires.
However, this would be a bit pricey. I'm wondering about just
switching to the lighter seat cushion (which would save about 11 oz).
Does anyone know if one loses alot of comfort by switching to this
cushion? Also, any thoughts on keeping the standard Deore/Alex DA 16
wheels and switching to lighter (but still sturdy and dependable
tires)? Any suggestions for tires? Right now I'm using Schwalbe
Marathons (26 x 1.5 @ 600 grams and 20 x 1.5 @ 426 grams). I don't
know what the Deore/Alex wheels weigh but I'm sure the Velocity
Thracians are lighter at 564 grams in the front and 1038 grams in the
rear. I ride mostly on paved roads that are usually in good condition
in hilly upstate NY. Thank-you in advance for your comments and
suggestions.
Bob Slebodnik