Mavic Ksyriums, To Buy or Not to Buy?

Question: Hi - I just read a review/answer to a question on your site about Mavic's Ksyrium ES wheels. Overall it looked like you guy liked these wheels....and I glad to see that you did suggest for daily use. I did however see an article on some issues such as possible maintenance required for the hubs??? But no major flaws.

If I may tell you a little about me / my riding habits / what I already have could you give me your opinion on whether or not I should fork out $900 - $1100 for these wheels?

I am not a bike racer - rather I have been riding since college as a means to work out. I love road biking - and at 38 just recently got back into it as a serious / consistent form of exercise. I bought a GIANT TCR series bike / frame is all carbon fiber except for crank and bars. First thing several "bike" guys told me to do to UPGRADE this bike when I was ready was to upgrade the wheels. I currently have XERO XSR -3's - I believe the weight is around 894 g in front and 1164 in back 22/24 spokes. I weigh approx - 205-210. I live in FLAT MISSISSIPPI - and I ride only about 75-100 miles per week - again not racing just trying to improve on my cardio - my times / my ave speed etc.

Do you think these Mavic - K's es's would first hold my weight and be durable for everyday riding? If so - do you think these wheels would be a pretty good upgrade in my wheels from my XERO's that I have now? Do you think I'm overkilling this buy purchasing these?
Thanksfor your help!
Tim Fritts.

Hi Tim,

First the Ksyrium ES wheels are good and very nice to ride on, but those Xero wheels are also quite light, not as light as the Mavics, but still good. Your weight is also not a problem, the Ksyriums are good for every day riding, but they are not cheap and it would be a shame to wear them out riding to work, if you are training/riding daily they are fine. On the flat you won't notice the weight difference as much as in the mountains, so maybe they wouldn't make a big difference to your ride.

The hubs do need to be looked after, but no more than any others, they are well made and hard wearing and not a worry. Yes the Ksyriums would hold your weight and yes they would be a good up grade for your bike. Can you justify the cost? Do you want those wheels? Those are the two questions you need to answer. Only you know those answers, in the end that is what it comes down to, can you afford them and if you really want them get them anyway. New equipment is great for your mind and the best encouragement to get out on the bike.