Originally Posted by
Digger Goreman
One day I fully intend touring on my '95 Trek 800 Sport. Within reasonable sanity, what weight will the rims handle without busting spokes?
Known:
(to the best of my search fu)
Pilot/Driver (me) 180 lbs
Bike 32 lbs
Rims Sun Rhyno Lite
Front hub Shimano HB RM-40
Rear Hub Shimano Nexave
Spoke brand (no idea)
Front rack Generic <=20lbs capacity
Low Riders (generic w/single bottom bidon attach + significant U-clamp support to upper fork)
Rear rack Topeak Explorer
I intend to go as light as possible, but when should the warning bells sound?
Thanks for insights, fore-sights and opinions!
RhinoLites aren’t particularly lightweight...not that rim weight nor rim strength makes much difference. I off-road tour on mountain passes on a bike that is equipped with Mavic XC717 which are 130 g lighter than the Rhino Lites. That’s not gravel touring. It’s
rock touring with a 30 to 40 lb load and a heavy, aggressive rider. I don’t break spokes because I use strong spokes. I don’t worry about the rim weight.
On the other hand, you should carry the greatest weight over the front wheel because the bike is more stable and the wheel is stronger. 60% front/ 40% rear is about ideal.