Emily,

Just saw this on "Bicycling" magazine's website. Thought you might be interested.


--------Chris Hatounian
Price: $649

This familiar, paired-spoke design licensed from Rolf Prima requires little (if any) maintenance, and the wheels are stiff, and stiff-riding. With a shallow-section rim, the Bontragers aren't as harsh as deep-section, paired-spoke wheels, but they impart their share of road feedback.

The offset rear rim balances spoke tension for a stiffer, longer-lasting wheel. Neither stunningly light nor unfortunately heavy, the Bontragers' stiffness and conservative build help them feel efficient and hearty.

Weight: 1,577g (662 F; 915 R)

Spokes: 20 F; 24 R

Best Thing: Solid all-around performance

Worst Thing: No standout feature

The Compromise: Proprietary rim and hubs

Our Verdict: Reasonably light, high-performance wheels that can take daily abuse yet not overtax you in most races -----------