Will a MA3 hold up better for cross than an Open Pro. Take more abuse and stay true longer/better? Thanks

Will a MA3 hold up better for cross than an Open Pro. Take more abuse and stay true longer/better? Thanks

I have both. I'd say they both perform about the same. the deciding factor on how long a rim lasts is the quality of the build.

I've heard the CXP 33 is a bit stronger than the Open Pro, and may be a good choice for 'cross. However, I've also heard that because there are no eyelets, the rim can fill with water and mud - is this true? If so, does the rim drain or does it remain especially heavy throughout a wet race? Also, does this cause problems for the rim longer-term?

Will a MA3 hold up better for cross than an Open Pro. Take more abuse and stay true longer/better? Thanks

I do not have Open Pros but do have four MA3 wheels which have done very well. I weigh 205 lbs and have raced them with no problems.

The strongest rims I have owned sem to be Velocity Deep V's - but they are heavier.

I agree that the most important factor is the build.
David K

I run the Ultegra/Open pro's from Wheelsmith and I run over/hit everything in sight and they have been true so far. I am 180lbs and cross racing weekly. So I am convinced they are a durable wheelset. Even have a set for my spare wheels.

i believe the open pro is stronger.

Kajukembo is right. I think all the rims mentioned are equally reliable given the same spoke pattern, guage, and tension. The heavier rims, MA3 and CXP33 will be slightly more durable for a big hit perhaps (they'll stay in true/won't develop a flat spot), but the rim dents regardless since the rim wall is the soft part anyway. I have built up each of these myself, but prefer to race the open pro because it's the lightest and spins up/climbs the easiest.

Regardling the eyelet versus no eyelet argument: No difference that I can see. I rode an open pro on my road bike in the rain for 3 hours and it filled with water.

Cliff

The heavier rims, MA3 and CXP33 will be slightly more durable for a big hit perhaps (they'll stay in true/won't develop a flat spot), but the rim dents regardless since the rim wall is the soft part anyway.

That's what i always assumed but the MA3 (now called the open sport p.s.) actually has a lower weight limit so i am asuming it's not as strong.

For my clinchers, I am running Velocity Aeroheads (off-cener in the rear), which do not have eyelets. I have not had any issue with them filling up with water or mud. I really like the way these ride. They are a few grams lighter than Open Pros, a few bucks cheaper, and the OC rear rim helps improve the dish. I can't see how you can go wrong. It is too bad the Escape tubulr rim is not available in an off-center version as well. Not enough of a market to justify the added die cost I guess. I would change from Reflexes to those if an OC version was available. I might change anyway the next time I need to build a new tubular wheel. My wife is bugging me for tubuars now!