Originally Posted by
Psimet2001
The plate around the valve hole implies Ambrosio. Very nice rims. That set should last a long time. How long? Way too many variables to determine. Very well built wheels don't usually come to a natural end. They are usually destroyed in a wreck, or the braking surface wears out. Brake wear is completely dependent upon rider weight, riding style, terrain and traffic conditions, brake calipers used, brake shoe compound, riding weather conditions, etc.....
If cared for well built wheels should last most normal riders for many years....they are usually de-comisioned because the rider gets bored with them and wants something new. usually relinquished to pit wheels or given to a new rider.
Good stuff, thanks. Particularly like the 'or given to a new rider' part!
If this is too much of a threaddrift feel free to ignore, but, apart from really keeping an eye on the truing, what else in a rider's control can he do to maximize lifespan?
and, edit: both wheelsets are 36, not 32 spokers.