New Rear Wheel For Specialized Epic Comp 2012

[Pirks]

Heyo, I need to get a new rear wheel for my Specialized Epic Comp 2012. Something preferably under $200, which I know isnt a lot, but its what I got. I have been looking at the Mavic Crossride 29er, but I don't know if that is compatible for my bike. Any help would be appriciated, thanks!

[nfmisso]

looks like it should work - both are 142.

Why do you need a new rear wheel? The Mavic may not be as strong as your old wheel due to only having 24 spokes versus the 32 spokes on the original rim.

If your hub is still good, why not get a new rim and spokes, and rebuild? I'd use a Dyad rim: http://www.amazon.com/Velocity-Dyad-700c-Rim-Black/dp/B00A4D4XEM/
and WheelSmith spokes.

[Pirks]

The free-hub body is in crap condition, which is why I am replacing the wheel. When I took it to a shop, they couldn't even get the thing out. I tried to get it replaced under specialized warranty but its been past a year since the purchase so that's a no go.

[1FJEF]

There has got to be a way to get that freehub off. A new freehub is under $35, right? Try another shop or cut the freehub away to allow pinpoint heat application, something.
And 24 spokes? How much do you weigh? 165 or less I hope. No big drop offs, right?