Cross season is right around the corner.  It’s time to get your bike in order.  One of the most important components for cyclocross is a solid tubular wheelset.  I know some top riders who ride clinchers (including the best cx racer in Montana) but I’ve had bad luck with them.  I know tubeless is an emerging market, but I don’t fiddle around with that either.  As always this list is based on the “Balling on a Budget” philosophy.

Easton EA70x – Easton decided not to make this wheel for 2012.  I bought mine in 2009 and it’s been the only wheelset; road, mountain, cyclocross, that has lasted me for 3 racing seasons.  I’m going to roll it this again as pit wheels.  They are right around 1650 grams and have all the makings for a great working man/woman wheelset.  Easy to true, durable, and solid hubs.

HED Ardennes LT – This wheelset comes in a tubular and clincher option.  Just over 1500 grams, 18 and 24 spokes.  A stallion build is available for guys over 190lbs (Toby, Doug, Phil, Ruffato, Horan).  With Easton not making the EA70x I’m switching to the LT for 2012.

Zipp 440 – I’ve had two pairs of these over the years.  Both pairs I bought for under $600 on Ebay.  My first pair lasted 2 seasons before the rims cracked (during road racing not cx).  The second pair was excellent.  I raced hard for a season and sold them.  Sure these are kind of tanks….but they are aero and great for grassy courses.  I really enjoyed running a file tread set up.  For $600 your not  going to find a carbon set of wheels and I have had solid luck with them lasting.  Ebay has some up right now.