HelIo everyone!
I am in the process of building up a lightly used Kona Unit X frame for the purpose of completing the Baja Divide (and perhaps trans mexico norte) in Jan-Mar 2027. This is my first frame-up build and first expedition-style trip. I have a pretty good idea of what I want the build to look like, but am struggling to pull the trigger on a pair of wheels.
Here's my current list of criteria with some question marks attached:
- 35mm internal diameter for 2.6-2.8'' tires – 30mm would be ok?
- "Trail" type wheels – not too heavy (enduro?) as to feel sluggish during climbs, but not too light as to be susceptible to breaking/bending
- 32 spokes – significantly stronger than 28?
- DT 350 hub or similar for star ratchet – star ratchet seems like a big upgrade for ease of maintenance.
- Carbon fiber v.s. aluminum – huge hit to budget, but perhaps carbon rims would be a worthwhile upgrade for durability, ride improvement, weight saving, ect? Alu also seems totally fine and a lot cheaper?
What do y'all think? I'm working on a fairly tight budget here, so have been keeping an eye on the used markets. The issue is, I seem to keep finding good deals on wheels that are *almost* perfect in the $250-400 range, but don't meet all the criteria (usually have 30mm id and/or pawl hubs and/or 28 spokes, ect). I'm starting to think it might be worth it to have what I want built and swallow the $700-800(?) pill, or bite the bullet and go for a carbon set like these. Peace of mind buying a newly/professionally built v.s. a used wheel is obviously a factor.
Any insight appreciated 🙂 Thanks!
by merrow-agate