Cyclocross Wheel Set

Not sure that I would race cross with DT shifters. I am thinking that I want both hands on the bars at all times (unless I am carrying the bike!)

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Why wheels? If these are running, true and useable, then use them. Unless you're talking about high $$$ race wheels, just run what you have. To answer the question you ask, the best choice will be 32hole standard Shimano hubs laced 3-cross w/ 14Ga straight spokes to semi-aero rims like Velocity Aerohead, CXP-33 or DTSwiss. I prefer Velocity. Box rims won't slice through the muck, semi-aero will and are stronger.

As for shifting; this is where you're stuck. DT shifting isn't going to work. You could go to bar-end and re-cable the bike; that's your lowest cost option. STI is best, but that's real cost unless you work to find used adn you can find the correct speed index count. (Is this bike 7, 8 or 9 speed now?)

Your gearing is likely way wrong. You're going to want 46x36 compact chainrings and a 12-27 cassette.

Where youe REALLY stuck is the clearances. Can you fit a 700x32 tire between the chain stays and/or the fork? (I doubt it). Almost all road bikes won't accept bigger than 28. Your brakes aren't going to work well either. Side pull calipers will totally clog with mud, grass and be ineffective after a lap.

Converting a road bike is a bad idea. It seems easy at first, but it's simply the wrong choice.

Lighten up the 29'er. Lock out any suspension or pump it as high as you can. Get low rolling resistance tires; Conti makes them for 26. Can you fit 700x32 regular cyclocross tires on the 29er rim (I think you can?)?

Edited by pitt83 2008-10-07 6:44 AM

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