Lightweight Ventoux / Gipfelsturm 240 Ultra Light Skewer
My only structural concern with the Lightweight Ventoux wheels is the skewer. I also don’t know if the quoted wheelset weight includes the skewer, but the extension part of the “handle” appears to be carbon fiber as well, and presumably the skewer itself is titanium.
The skewer locks down securely, but the locking mechanism is so much beefier with the Campagnolo skewer that one has to wonder just a bit. Is there a legitimate concern or risk here that the Campy skewer would be so much beefier? I don’t know.
My bike mechanic at Palo Alto Bicycles expressed some skepticism about the merits of such a lightweight skewer. A Lightweight representative responded in this way: “I was nervous initially but after riding all year, no problems. Its not as intuitive as the Campy skewer but works. Use what you feel comfortable with.”.
I’ve taken a fresh look at the skewers, and they rode fine in 2011 for training.
But in 2012, Lightweight moved to aluminum skewers, which are extremely (absurdly) flexible, and I do not trust aluminum in a critical place like a skewer.
As of 2012, I train only on the Campagnolo steel skewer. It clamps securely, and I don’t have to worry about fatigue or breakage.