Merlin have a bit of a deal on Hope Pro 2 Evo + ZTR Olympics but I'm not sure if they're too racy for what I want.
They're to replace a set of Pro 2 / Mavic 719 that have served me well and will go on the Ti456. I've been looking for a 2nd hand pair of Crest or maybe Arch / Arch EX on Hope, but Merlin have [url= http://www.merlincycles.com/bike-shop/wheels/mountain-bike-wheels/sale-wheels/handbuilt-hope-pro2-evo-wheel-offer-26.html ]the above setup[/url] for £310. I'd be running 2.25" tyres, generally ride from the door in the White Peak, so there are a few rocky descents to contend with.
Are they worth a look or are they not really going to work for me? I'm 13 and a bit stone wringing wet...
On a sort-of related note, being a total tubeless novice, is it the case with the Stans rims that you use their yellow tape, whack any old tyre on, put some sealant in and off you go?
I've had a Hope Pro2 with Stans Olympic rims set-up for years now albeit on my carbon hardtail, but they've never missed a beat. Im much the same weigh as you and spend 95% of my time on XC routes but they're surprisingly strong and I've done a few trail centre blasts with them with no problems.
I run them with tubes (I've experienced tubeless and I'd never go back...) and my style or riding means I don't need anything bigger than a 2.1 tyre but don't see why a 2.25 wouldn't be fine.
I say go for them.
That's really helpful - thanks! If I stay "tubed" do I need the mythical yellow tape still or just regular rim tape? Cheers 🙂
Just use regular rim tape if you're going to stay with tubes - the yellow rim tape is designed for tubeless set-ups. Or just use insulation tape like I do... 😀
In addition to the above, you've always got Hope's legendary build quality, spares availability and backup service. My Pro2's are about 4 years old now and its only now that the front bearings need replacing, bearings I picked up for less than a tenner.
Just buy a set of Hope Hoops c/w Crests - you should be able to get them for that price.