"Mike Jacoubowsky" wrote in message .com...


On many moderately-priced road bikes, the stock wheels leave a lot to be
desired due to spokes of low quality, poor build techniques (no
stress-relieving) and junky rims. That really isn't the case with the stock
wheelset on your machine.

That "cheap wheelset" is actually pretty decent. If you picked up a 2003
Q-Carbon, you've got fairly inexpensive yet very serviceable Tiagra hubs
laced up to Bontrager offset-spoke-bed rims. They're reasonably light and
very sturdy. If it's a 2004 Q-Carbon, you're looking at Bontrager Select
wheels, a bit more aero with 20 spokes front/24 spokes rear.

You'll make a more significant improvement in how the bike feels by
upgrading to really nice tires rather than any changes in the wheels. Yes,
really light wheels will feel nicer, and the bike will weigh a bit less, but
I think you'll find overall that the difference in tires from stock to
something like a GP3000 or Michelin Axial Pro Race will give you a smoother
ride and feel "zippier." (Sorry to throw around a technical term like
"zippier", but not sure how else to say it!).

--Mike-- Chain Reaction Bicycles
http://www.ChainReactionBicycles.com

Hi Mike [and others;-)], what can you tell me about the stock wheels
on my '02 LeMond Tourmalet?
I guess I'm mostly interested on learning more about the rims, the
bike comes with Matrix Aurora rims with a Tiagra rear hub and a no
name front hub. The rear is offset and other than some excessive
decals, I like their appearance.

If I go from IRC Redstorm Classics to Conti Ultra Gatorskins will
there be any "zippier" benefits, or must I go with the GP3000 for
"zippier"?


Eventually I want to get another set of wheels and I am leaning
towards the Open Pros w/Dura-Ace hubs. Should I also consider
replacing the hubs on my current wheels? The only downside to that
idea, is that I'll have to pay someone to do the labor. While I am
buying tools and starting to do more of my own labor, I'm not ready to
tackle wheels.
And finally comparison of DA to Ultegra hubs, differences? benefits?
Thank you,
Jeff