I've built up 3 or 4 clincher wheels over the past year or two. I'd like to build up a set of tubular wheels. I'm 6'0", weigh 160, and ride a wide variety of events (Mountain Centuries, Time Trials, Criteriums, and Road Races). I've never ridden tubies and would like to get some experience building/gluing/riding them just for fun.

Here's what I've got:

2 Wolber Super Champion Aspin 36 hole rims
2. Mavic Gel 330 32 hole rims
1 Wolber Super Champion Aspin 32 hole rim

I'm not looking for a super-light wheel. I would like it reasonably light to ride in events/races and yet durable. I'll likely build a second set when I can get cheap hubs off of eBay.

Here's what I plan for the first set:

Front - Mavic Gel 330 32 hole rim, Dura-Ace 7800 hub, Wheelsmith XL spokes 2-3 cross with brass nipples.

Rear - Wolber Super Champion Aspin 36 hole rim, Dura-Ace 7800 hub, Wheelsmith XL spokes 3 cross with brass nipples.

I chose the Mavic over the Wolber because it looks to be lighter than the Wolber and I don't really care much if they match. Any advice on the wheelset?

Also, what tire recommendations do you have for Crits/Road Races???

Thanks folks!
Greg

At your weight why not just use the Mavic Gels front and rear. If you want a more traditional looking wheel go 1x on the front and 2x/3x or 3x/2x rear depending on your persuasion.

Reading about the weight of the rims and rider weight made me think that a 36 hole rear might be wise. Perhaps I'll build one set with the Wolbers 36 Rear/32 Front (I've already got a Dura-Ace 36 hole Rear Hub) and use the Mavics for a complete set. The reason for the 3X on both sides has more to do with the spokes available to me.

Thanks,
Greg

If you've already got the 36h hub, then sure, you might as well use it.

36 is overkill though, even for folks who weigh a good bit more than you (160 isn't much at all). But you'll have a bombproof wheel, which is a good thing.