new wheelset vs. new bike

[missliz]

My own experience with the amazing Adam Watts (Adams Bicycle World.com) was that he asked questions, made reccomendations, and left me in the dust as far as what he did. He explained it all, I just didn't get it till I rode out the door of the shop. A master wheel builder will be able to guide you as far as what you want- these guys usually raced for years and Bikes are their proffession. They know whats best for your wheight and the use and terrain you'll be riding.
Racers have several wheelsets, fancy carbon straight spoke ones for competition and then everyday training wheels with three cross lacing that are sturdier to take high milage pounding. I f you're touring or doing intro racing thats what you want. You gotta pick out hubs,rims, and spokes- the spokes are the big deal. I have spokes so fancy I know nothing about them except the ride is so different they were worth every penny.
What part of the world are you in? Portland? I can ask Adam if he knows who to go see, he knows bike people all over. People who can do this well can guide you , and won't screw you around. Another option- my road wheels came from a local racer/ mechanic who built himself these slightly exotic unusual road racing wheels with stainless steel mountain bike hubs, then needed to cash them out to finance the next set of toys. I got some amazing custom wheels for a really good price, and racer boys from all over ride up and ask how I got Joe to build me a set of those! No romance out of that yet but it gives one hope . The point is guys build and buy and then liquidate stuff all the time, you may be able to get a deal on a lightly used toy from somebody chasing fashion. Just a thought.
I'll try to call Adam tomorrow.

missliz