Fulcrum Racing 3 vs EA 90 SLX vs Ksyrium ES

[Edge_Design]

My rear rim cracked yesterday and I figure it's time for a new wheelset. I'm currently looking at the Fulcrum Racing 3's, Easton EA90 SLX or possibly a relatively low mileage used set of Mavic Ksyrium ES. These will all cost me less than R6k which I've set as my limit.

I need wheels that are relatively low maintenance and can be used for both training and racing. I know there are many people who think a custom build is the best option, but I've been riding Open Pro's on Record hubs for years and think it's time to try out some factory wheels. If it helps, I weigh 85 kg.

 

Anyone have any thoughts on the wheels I've mentioned or any other alternatives?

shaun2312008-11-12 06:23:40

[turtlek]

I personally think the fulcrums are awesome wheels but look at a set of campy Eurus wheels bomb proof and you wont have an issue

[keith]

I ride some Easton Vistas- entry level stuff, and I'm really happy with them. So my vote goes to Easton (not that I"ve ridden anything else).

[Edge_Design]

They look awesome, but are about R1.5k more than the others unfortunately... I'm leaning towards the Fulcrums based on the reviews I've seen, just want to find out more opinions about their durability.

The only thing about the Easton's is they appear to be about 200g lighter than the Fulcrums.

 

I know they're a lot more than I said originally, but what is the difference between the Racing 1's and 3's like? Is it worth an extra R3k?

shaun2312008-11-10 08:43:29

[JPW#]

2 words Mavic cosmos....not sure if they make them anymore, my all time fav....set......soft and fast and super long lasting.

[Edge_Design]

Any other opinions? Need to order a set today, but still undecided on what to go for so would appreciate any input. My decision is currently sitting at Fulcrum Racing 3 vs. Easton EA90 SLX (and if there is any genuine reason to put in the extra money to go up to Racing 1's)?

[Iwan Kemp]

PM edman. He has a set of Campag Eurus wheels for sale at a great price. Otherwise go with the Fulcrum 3's

[Reg Lizard]

How about these wheels https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=36523.

[Edge_Design]

Had a look at them, but I have sort of decided to avoid Mavic as I'd like something a little different. I've also seen a few conflicting reviews on them - which might be purely because there are so many of them on the road - and I have yet to see a bad review of the Eastons or Fulcrums (granted that is in very limited searching)

[Reg Lizard]

I weigh 93kg's and have been riding a set of Mavic Ksyrium ELites for a year and a half with no problems- only had the spokes tightened the first time last weekend. They are not the lightest wheels around but they wouldn't let you down. For R3000 that is a real bargain. I thik they retail for about R4500 to R5500. Having said that, I don't know the Eastons or Fulcrums you want to buy. just my 2c worth.

[Kiwi]

Our Planet X Model B's will be in at the end of November, just over R2,200 depending on the Rand. 1653grams a set, same rims as Easton EA 70s & 3 grams heavier over all.

 

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.za/images/products/Model-B-CC.jpg

Kiwi2008-11-11 02:10:00

[Edge_Design]

Still looking for opinions on these wheels... Nobody has mentioned anything to do with Mavics and yet every second bike in Cape Town seems to have a set? I've set my mind on the 3 sets I mentioned so just looking for opinions on which would be best.

[Spinnekop]

Go for the Fulcrums.

 

Definitely NOT the Mavics.

 

 

[Edge_Design]

Heard that from a few ppl now... Why do you say Fulcrum and not the Eastons? I've heard the fulcrums might be a bit more complicated for maintenance than the eastons? Looking for something to last me a few years hopefully.

[mbaymike]

eastons rule....they are the best in my opinion.

[Spinnekop]

Well.....

 

Unfortunately I do not have any experience with the Eastons, so I cannot rate them.

 

The ES is a very nice wheel.  But very "full of crap". 
I should think it is a perfect race wheel / climbing wheel.  But not for everyday use.

 

As for the Fulcrum.  It has Campy blood in it.  And not ONE Fulcrum rider that I know off has done one hour's worth of maintenance on his wheels.