Thanks guys. Having just given into temptation and bought some bits for my drivetrain I think I’ll have my wheels trued and retentioned for now and do a bit more research in the meantime. Though I’d like to try lighter wheels, I don’t want to be worrying about them all the time.

It sounds like I might be best sticking with what I have for now then. Given I’ve just spent quite a bit on new drive train bits it’s probably for the best anyway!

I was thinking I could just lock them off a bit if required. The effect on geometry is what worries me a bit. I’m still tinkering to get everything to fit right. I’m 6’3, evenly proportioned and have a 20″ frame. I sometimes wonder if the 22″ might’ve been better. When riding on the flat and on hills I have the seat pretty high and it’s on a Thomson layback set pretty far back (and 120mm stem). I sometimes feel the bars are a bit low in this position but less so when the seat is lower for downhill sections. I’m so new to all this it’s hard to judge what’s right and wrong. I know one thing for sure though, it can feel pretty scary being sat so high up on sections with a steep drop off to one side!

I was really wondering whether I could go with lighter wheels but still be strong enough for my weight and the riding I do. If the answer’s no then I’ll stick with mine and just get them trued and retentioned. Any further thoughts?

I could probably do it myself but would need to buy a couple of tools. I’d rather find out people’s thoughts who’ve tried it before going to expense and effort and taking the risk of making a balls of it.

I don’t mean to hijack this thread but as you’re talking about something I was just about to post about it seems appropriate to ask here. I currently have the wheels that came with my Kona Kula Deluxe 29er which are Sun Eq 23 rims on Shimano M525 hubs and DT Swiss spokes. I am considering upgrading and have thought about the Shimano wheels (1850g a pair) or something like Hope Pro II, Crest Rims and Comp spokes. The thing is I weigh about 15 stone and ride mostly on trails including the likes of Lee quarry which is pretty rocky. Would the Shimano’s be a worthwhile weight saving and still be strong or what should I be considering? The most I wish to spend is probably £350.