Ambrosio Excellight, 700c, clincher, black, 28/32h, £59

Features:
– Box section
– Light weight
– Competition grade (used by professional teams)
– Double eyeletted
– Welded joint
– Precision machined sidewall
– 430g

DCR says:

Ambrosio rims are some of the most popular listed on this site. They have a classic look and they perform well. This particular model is the lightest in the Ambrosio range and has a 14.1mm internal measurement which is mid-narrow, allowing for tyres from 18-28c comfortably. The Excellence is the bigger sister to the Excellight. It is unusual to find a rim as light as this which still comes with double eyelets. This is due to a particularly thin extrusion which makes this rim unsuitable for riders in excess of 90kg. Nevertheless the performance improvements will be particularly noticable for light weight riders. The inherent strength of a double eyeleted rim allows this rim to tolerate full tensions, allowing for strong, stable wheels. Ambrosio use a different technique during the machining of the sidewall. This allows for particularly consistent braking.

Being a double eyeleted rim, the stress of the spoke can be exerted over both walls of aluminium which is inherently stronger. The eyelets are made from stainless steel to prevent rust. Being a box section rim this will offer a more comfortable ride and it is an inherently lighter profile. It also flexes more than an aero rim which accounts for its comfort but also makes it better suited to less powerful riders. Being light weight it will climb hills well and accelerate well too. As there is a welded joint the rim is able to be lighter, stronger and better balanced. If you are looking for something stronger and stiffer, you can go with the Ambrosio FCS28, if you are looking for something more durable you can go with the Excellence. If you are looking for something less expensive, consider the Ambrosio Evolution.

This rim is commonly accompanied by Royce hubs, for example the Ultra Light Front and Venus rear. Either Sapim Race, Laser or CX-Ray spokes and commonly SILS alloy nipples. Prices start at £538 for a set like this to provide a quality, elegant and classic looking wheelset.

For a classic looking, economical alternative, you may want to consider using NovaTec hubs instead of Royce hubs. Prices start at £274/wheelset.