I happened to end up with 1 Aerohead (non OC, non-machined) and 1 Open Pro (machined) rim. I need to build up a rear wheel. Which one should I use? My front wheel has already been built with an Aerohead.

Leaning towards the Aerohead - simply so I can get a matching set. I think the rim is slightly lighter too. My only reservation is that it's not the OC model. Do you still think it would be OK? I'm not too heavy - about 150 - 155lbs. Hub is going to be a Campy which I understand has a bit more dish.

... My only reservation is that it's not the OC model. Do you still think it would be OK?
Sure, as long as it's built with appropriate spokes and the builder does a good job. Aeroheads are quality rims. At 155 lbs I wouldn't think you'd have any problems.

Love my Aeroheads (OC's). At your weight, doubt very much non OC would present any probs. I say go with the Aerohead. If you can go 32 spokes, 3x it'll be plenty strong.

I have three sets of wheels with Aeroheads and all have a lot of miles on them and the rims have held up great. Two sets have the OC rear, one not, all are fine. I've also have Mavic Heliums which are basically Open Pros and like the feel of the Aeroheads better. Weights are comparable. I'm around 175, so wouldn't think your weight would be any problem, assuming proper # of spokes, etc.

I've ridden Open Pros for years and Open 4CD before that. Now I have AeroHeads with the OC in back. I really like them. They feel very light and brake just as well as the Mavics. They are cheaper to boot. Very impressed so far.

brewster

totally agree.

OPs are solid performers but old-fashioned IMO. Velocity are pretty much best in category IMHO, all things considered.
Very good QC, relatively cheap in a product made in a western country compared to the stuff coming out of taiwan at the same price. Massive range of drillings and colors to boot.

I like the look of DT wheels, but that Co's QC has been suspect of late.

I dunno why you would consider the OP in your case. Sure the aerohead u have may not be OC, but neither is the mavic rim. Def go matching aero.

The question should really be, 'What country do I really like more"? Are you a fan of Australia? Koala bears, Kangaroos, hyper-venomous snakes and toilets that don't swirl right. If you are then the Velocity is your rim. If you prefer bizarre cheeses, general snobbery, high fashion and frequent German invasions, go with the French rim.

support Oz they are good people.

They are both very good rims so go with the one that matches your front wheel. If anything, the Aeroheads seem to build up slightly stiffer, but I haven't used them enough to vouch for crash strength and general longetivity.

My open pros have seen several years of roubaix riding and other hard abuse, including ham-fisted truing and a rear hub swap by a not-so-competent wheel builder (Yours Truly). While it IS possible to knock them out of true, they are repairable and there has been no eyelet cracking whatsoever. I still think they're overpriced. But, you already have both and can't go wrong with either one.

I've ridden Open Pros for years and Open 4CD before that. Now I have AeroHeads with the OC in back. I really like them. They feel very light and brake just as well as the Mavics. They are cheaper to boot. Very impressed so far.

brewster


How would you describe the difference in ride quality? Are the Aeroheads as plush as the OPs?

How would you describe the difference in ride quality? Are the Aeroheads as plush as the OPs?

There is not enough difference between these rims to affect ride quality, which is much more controlled by the build details and the tire choice/pressure.