My Shimano R-550 wheels are nearing their end--can't seem to keep the rear wheel true on rough rides, so they ain't gonna make it through the cross season. So, I'm looking for new wheels. I was ready to look for a pair of handbuilt wheels (Utlegra with Open Pros) but just saw that Neuvation M28s are on sale for $199. They seem to get pretty good reviews so I'm tempted. Weight is not a big issue, but the Neuvations will probably be lighter. The priority for me is to have wheels that are durable, worry-free, and easily serviced when something does come up. So, given that, Neuvations or should I spring the extra $$ for the handbuilt wheels. Thanks.

I hav R28SL2's on my roadie. For the price I'm happy with them. However, I did need to have them re-tensioned shortly after purchasing them and just recently I popped a spoke (which was easily repaired-they come with x-tras) and just recently my lbs informed me that the casette hub was about shot. John (from Neuvation) replaced it free of charge. Having said all of this, if I were you, I'd go with the Open Pros. If I were to chose a Neuvation wheelset for cross, it would be the aero version-stronger spokes.

I have seen Neuvation wheels have trouble with broken spokes, and then once that was cleaned up broken hub flanges. I would go for the handbuilts -- even more so since you are looking for ease of service and durability. So far as weight, I guess that depends on what you are looking to build up.

go with the Open Pro's, they're bomb proof. I bought the m28's for training on the road and broke two hub flanges within 6 months. John Nugent was kind enough to replace the set (and give me an upgrade) free of charge, but my bet is using the m28's for cross would be a disaster.