i'm looking at a light but strong wheelset to replace my mavic deemax xl as the rims develop a rattle that drives me mad. three times they have had to go back in 6 weeks!!no harsh landings or anything and rattle from new
so, what does the hive mind say
Off the shelf, DT Swiss EX1501.
Built, DT 240S hubs, DT Spokes, XM481 rims.
I've just built up a dt xm 471 on my trusty rear pro 2, it feels very stiff (noticeably more so compared to the Arch EX) and built up really easily.
Nobl wheels.
I've been running DT EX471's on 350 SP hubs for a while now. Using them for everything form XC to DH @ Revs. Very strong, reasonable weight.
If I was building again I'd go for an XM481 on the front for a bit more width.
1757g for the pair (26" rear rim) with DT Aerocomp SP spokes.
EX471 rims on whatever hubs you prefer.
Very very tough rims at a reasonable weight.
Buy XM481 rims.
Buy some 350 hubs from Germany.
Get local wheel builder to assemble.
350 hubs from Germany
DT FR 570 rims from Germany, a little heavier but a little tougher, those XM 481s are nice but expensive
https://www.bike24.com/p2123360.html
What's your budget Jedi?
Have a look on here as you can spec the wheels exactly how you want and it will give you the weight:
https://www.actionsports.de/en/wheels/custom-wheels/mtb-disc-650b-27-5-/?p=1
Light and strong? Don't expect it to be cheap then!
No fans of Stan then?
I like Stan's - but I am heavy and like the ride quality and the fact they are not made of cheese. I have a set of Flows on a 29er built on hope hubs which come in at 1865 the pair! In theory arch should be lighter, or if you are lightweight then crests. Mate has a set and they have been great.