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I've got a 2017 trance 2. The cycle to work scheme has come around I'm trying to figure out if its worth getting some new wheels, specifically the Hope Tech Enduro boost wheels.
Theres nothing wrong with my current wheels. I don't think they are particularly heavy (rear is 2.7 kg with an inflated High Roller 2.3 EXO TR) and they make a nice buzzy freewheel sound.
My riding is pretty casual - more XC than enduro despite the bike. I don't do jumps. So the question is - is it worth getting some new wheels?
I should add that my only options (via evans) are the hope tech enduro or various flavours of mavic.
You may find that the hopes will be heavier than your stock wheels and they are fairly narrow by modern standards at only 23mm. If you fancy some hope bling and a really loud freehub then go for it.
As you've mentioned mavic I'd recommend the xa as they're lighter and have a wider rim (25mm). They should suit your riding style. I have a pair in 29 flavour. They have a pre installed rim strip so very easy to set up tubeless. And only 278 a pair.
they are fairly narrow by modern standards at only 23mm
This. My tourer/gravel bike has wider rims than that.
I have some hope wheels on my surly.
in use they are completely unnoticeable, until you stop pedalling of course.
This is good, imo.
and they come in several very nice colours, which is nice too.
im really heavy, i use the surly for bikepacking/touring and its fully rigid.
no problems at all.
Wide isn't everything. Does a lot in some ways but each time I try a bike with a wide set up I find them draggy pedalling. Once rolling it's okay and corner grip can be good with wide tyres. It's just I like fast acceleration. Plus wide is heavier. Still, wouldn't go below 23ish. 25 is good.
Anyway, immediate difference you'll find just changing tyres. High Roller IIs in particular are quite draggy on the flat and I don't like them up front. Wanders about when pointing straight on loose stuff. That's why I like Minions as they cut a nice straight line.
Thanks for the good advice. Sounds like its not worth it and I'm being swayed by the "hope bling" 🙂