XC Rims

[T Grimble]

Any suggestions for a strong and light XC rim (non-disk with tubes)?
I used to use Mavic 217 / 517 but prefer to stay away from Mavic if possible.
I also used Bontrager Mustang and liked them but I can only find them if I special order them at a shop and that gets expensive.

[bdee]

Are you building these or pre - built? If you're building them I hate to say it but Mavics are easy rims to build with. Assuming you're not I'd say go for some WTB wheels. WTB hubs are pretty nice and take a beating. Bonty rims are nice but the heaper Bontrager hubs blow goats once it gets sloppy out, horrible seals.

[kalven]

Try the Mavic Crossride wheelset (I know you said you'd prefer to stay away from Mavic, but these things are great for the money). I bought them to replace a set of trashed wheels and it was one of the best buys I've made yet. You can pick them up for around $200/pr and they come with straight pull spokes, disc hubs and completely sealed bearings. As for weight, the pair is around ~1800grams, so they're not really heavy.

[T Grimble]

I am planning to build them up myself on Chris King Classic Hubs. Just doesn't seem to be much available for XC use anymore.

[C.P.]

What about Stans rims. They are getting some good reviews. check this one out. V brake ready, run it with or without tubes, lightweight too..
http://www.notubes.com/product_info.php/cPath/487_489/products_id/304

[Tim]

I am quite partial to Mavics myself, just because they seem to be easier than other brands to mount tires on - makes a difference when the bugs are eating you while you change a flat. But if Mavics ain't your thing, and you're not too heavy, I would recommend the Velocity VXC rim. 420 grams (claimed), semi-aero, eyeletted, come in a bunch of colors. I built a set for my wife using the snazzy "spangled silver" color and I give them high marks for roundness - made for a very easy build.

Tim