Is wasn't that long ago. I realize inflation but are they really that much better?
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Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
Zipp disks are very good. Are they worth what you pay? That is a personal decision for the buyer.
The Zipp disk has become more expensive do to rising material costs but it has also become a much better version of itself.
The current Zipp disk has better 10 speed compatibility, better durability (especially in the hub and cassette body), enhanced cosemetics and possibly aerodynamics with the addition of the dimples.
I think the Zipp disk is the best disk you can buy. I use a Blackwell disk manufacturered for Blackwell by Zipp. My wife rides a Zipp disk.
They are the best (IMO) and often times the best is also the most expensive. I'll suggest they are worth it even at current pricing.
Tom Demerly
The Tri Shop.com
The Zipp disk has become more expensive do to rising material costs but it has also become a much better version of itself.
The current Zipp disk has better 10 speed compatibility, better durability (especially in the hub and cassette body), enhanced cosemetics and possibly aerodynamics with the addition of the dimples.
I think the Zipp disk is the best disk you can buy. I use a Blackwell disk manufacturered for Blackwell by Zipp. My wife rides a Zipp disk.
They are the best (IMO) and often times the best is also the most expensive. I'll suggest they are worth it even at current pricing.
Tom Demerly
The Tri Shop.com
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Tom Demerly]
[ In reply to ]
I agree....the best out there.....
I shall never misuse Rex Kwon Do
I shall be a champion of freedom and justice
I shall never misuse Rex Kwon Do
I shall be a champion of freedom and justice
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Tom Demerly]
[ In reply to ]
What's most intersting to me is how the older disks that were purchased new for around the $400 pricepoint are now going on ebay used for the same price or even more.
If materials are one of the reasons for higher costs then why are there cheaper versions of carbon disks (renn)?
I don't want to imply that I do not like Zipp or that I don't think it's the best becase I DO LOVE the wheels they make and DO believe that they are great (if they don't break) on rough roads.
I'm just wondering about the price and why? I should add that I bought a Zipp 999 wheelset myself. :)
If materials are one of the reasons for higher costs then why are there cheaper versions of carbon disks (renn)?
I don't want to imply that I do not like Zipp or that I don't think it's the best becase I DO LOVE the wheels they make and DO believe that they are great (if they don't break) on rough roads.
I'm just wondering about the price and why? I should add that I bought a Zipp 999 wheelset myself. :)
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
IMHO no they aren't worth the price they charge. The price jump a couple years ago wasen't just a material thing, it was also demand, the success in the tour led to a large increase in disc sales the demand was there so they jacked the price up, and people still bought them.
Personally i wouldn't pay the current price. it's a very nice wheel, but the prices on things have just gotten retarded.
Personally i wouldn't pay the current price. it's a very nice wheel, but the prices on things have just gotten retarded.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
Companies will always charge whatever price Mr. Consumer is willing to pay. Supply and demand baby.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Picasso_Bull]
[ In reply to ]
It doesn't seem fair but I suppose if we paid $50 per wheel it wouldn't feel as cool and we wouldn't value the aero benefits as much.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [indytri]
[ In reply to ]
I can go either way on this. Yes the price is hard to swallow and yes it is annoying. How ever, Zipp has made a commitment to American manufacturing and the people that work there need to earn a living. They are also the best wheels out there even though you can certainly spend far more for heavier, slower wheel set. I am not sure they are over priced for what they are, as opposed to being just to expensive for most people. Nothing wrong with that.
Lot's of options out there that are cheaper and almost as good. I love my 404/909/999 wheel sets and will probably continue to support them as long as it is financially possible for me to do so. I still reserve the right to be resentful of the price I have to pay though :).
Lot's of options out there that are cheaper and almost as good. I love my 404/909/999 wheel sets and will probably continue to support them as long as it is financially possible for me to do so. I still reserve the right to be resentful of the price I have to pay though :).
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [tjs]
[ In reply to ]
Very well said. BUY USA!
Hey wait. Does this mean I should feel guilty about my carbon Cervelo that was produced in Asia and as costs me as much or more than something like an Elite made in PA or TitanFlex made in CA?
So in other words... if Zipp went off-shore and the price didn't drop, you would think it was too much or if Cervelo made carbon bikes in Toronto you would be willing to spend more to support them?
Hey wait. Does this mean I should feel guilty about my carbon Cervelo that was produced in Asia and as costs me as much or more than something like an Elite made in PA or TitanFlex made in CA?
So in other words... if Zipp went off-shore and the price didn't drop, you would think it was too much or if Cervelo made carbon bikes in Toronto you would be willing to spend more to support them?
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
Well, maybe. I bought a new Litespeed Blade this year that I got a good price for. I used to have a P3 that was made in the USA. I chose to go with the Litespeed because I liked it better than the P3C. The fact that it is made in the USA factored into my decision.
What can I say? I buy USA when I can, but I don't go out of my way unless the product is superior. I like the people at Zipp and I doubt any of them are getting rich. I buy New Balance shoes because they are made in my birth town in Maine- but also because they work for me. I know the people in the community there need those jobs. I drive a Toyota Camry, even though it is Japanese company. I guess the car was made in Kentucky, but you get the point. I certainly buy both, but really like to buy USA when possible. I don't see what the problem is with that.
Yes, I will and do spend extra money on a certain product to support US jobs and manufacturing. Nothing against anything made any where else. Choose what you will it makes no difference to me and I certainly don't mean to demean any other product simply because it isn't made in the USA.
What can I say? I buy USA when I can, but I don't go out of my way unless the product is superior. I like the people at Zipp and I doubt any of them are getting rich. I buy New Balance shoes because they are made in my birth town in Maine- but also because they work for me. I know the people in the community there need those jobs. I drive a Toyota Camry, even though it is Japanese company. I guess the car was made in Kentucky, but you get the point. I certainly buy both, but really like to buy USA when possible. I don't see what the problem is with that.
Yes, I will and do spend extra money on a certain product to support US jobs and manufacturing. Nothing against anything made any where else. Choose what you will it makes no difference to me and I certainly don't mean to demean any other product simply because it isn't made in the USA.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
those days are gone...along with the day you could sign up for an Olympic distance tri on race morning for $20.
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"that which does not destroy me will only make me stronger" Frederick Nietzsche
andrew peabody
http://BREAKAWAYMULTISPORT.COM
________________________________________________________________________
"that which does not destroy me will only make me stronger" Frederick Nietzsche
andrew peabody
http://BREAKAWAYMULTISPORT.COM
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [tjs]
[ In reply to ]
Having never owned or ridden Zipps, I'm just curious what it is people love about them. I've stayed away from the Zipps just because they are so much more than other wheels. They do look like a quality product though.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [tjs]
[ In reply to ]
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Picasso_Bull]
[ In reply to ]
Fair enough question. Here are my reasons even if others don't agree with them.
1. I like that they (Zipp) are at all the important races helping customers with problems and providing race support for all the athletes.
2. I like that they constantly are improving their product, even when it drives prices up. My wheels (Zipp) will never be outdated like a lot of others that haven't changed in the last 10 years. even if it is a simple insignificant change that may or may not help. At least they are trying to push the envelope and trying to get faster in some way or another.
3. I like that they are the best, but aren't the most expensive out there.
4. I like that they are a small Midwest company with really cool people you can actually talk to.
5. I like that they actually do research.
6. I like the fact that I can call them right now and expect great service. I know they actually answer their phone and don't have a crummy voice mail system on the other end.
7. I like the relationship they have with my LBS. That means no problems for me. Ever.
8. I like that they are a US company that employs US workers. Shoot me.
9. I like that they have the best product out there and that I never have to worry about having the second best wheels at any race. When I get beat, it's not because of wheel choice.
10. I like having the best of *something*. I will never own a Ferrari, but at least I can have a kick ass bike and the best wheels.
11. I like that they have a huge sponsorship for athletes. They are a very generous company, even if some of that cost *may* (I don't know for sure) gets past to the consumer.
12. I like the fact that Zipp wheels are in demand and hold their value. I have never sold a pair of Zipp wheels for less than I have paid for them. I have always made a good profit off of 2-3 year old wheels, and they always sell fast.
13. Just a great company. I like good people and enjoy purchasing expensive products from people I trust.
That's about it.
1. I like that they (Zipp) are at all the important races helping customers with problems and providing race support for all the athletes.
2. I like that they constantly are improving their product, even when it drives prices up. My wheels (Zipp) will never be outdated like a lot of others that haven't changed in the last 10 years. even if it is a simple insignificant change that may or may not help. At least they are trying to push the envelope and trying to get faster in some way or another.
3. I like that they are the best, but aren't the most expensive out there.
4. I like that they are a small Midwest company with really cool people you can actually talk to.
5. I like that they actually do research.
6. I like the fact that I can call them right now and expect great service. I know they actually answer their phone and don't have a crummy voice mail system on the other end.
7. I like the relationship they have with my LBS. That means no problems for me. Ever.
8. I like that they are a US company that employs US workers. Shoot me.
9. I like that they have the best product out there and that I never have to worry about having the second best wheels at any race. When I get beat, it's not because of wheel choice.
10. I like having the best of *something*. I will never own a Ferrari, but at least I can have a kick ass bike and the best wheels.
11. I like that they have a huge sponsorship for athletes. They are a very generous company, even if some of that cost *may* (I don't know for sure) gets past to the consumer.
12. I like the fact that Zipp wheels are in demand and hold their value. I have never sold a pair of Zipp wheels for less than I have paid for them. I have always made a good profit off of 2-3 year old wheels, and they always sell fast.
13. Just a great company. I like good people and enjoy purchasing expensive products from people I trust.
That's about it.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [tjs]
[ In reply to ]
Quote:
12. I like the fact that Zipp wheels are in demand and hold their value. I have never sold a pair of Zipp wheels for less than I have paid for them. I have always made a good profit off of 2-3 year old wheels, and they always sell fast.What? The only way you are selling used wheels for as much as you paid for them is if you are getting a good discount, in which case most of your other points are moot.
Zipp wheels are very high quality, but compared to the features they offer they are very overpriced when you consider other products on the market. The only explanation for people buying them is that they place a high value on owning "Zipp" wheels. I own a set of 808s with a PTSL that I bought second hand a decent price. I would never pay full price for a set of these things . . . I've heard more than one story about a nearly new set of wheels breaking and Zipp refusing to follow through with their warranty.
Dimond Bikes Superfan
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Tom Demerly]
[ In reply to ]
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [ericlambi]
[ In reply to ]
I buy all my wheels at my local LBS. Were they discounted? I am not sure, but that is where the relationship thing with the LBS and Zipp comes in. In the old days before prices where regulated by Zipp (and the others) I know that sales where common, and my LBS used to get end of year close outs in mass quantity and pass them on to the really good customers. I haven't bought wheels in the last 2 years (where do you go from the 999 set?) so I really don't about discount pricing. In the end I am just joe blow. I am not sponsored or anything like that. My statement stands, I have never lost money on Zipp wheels. There are at least 3 ST'ers who can verify that. Ebay helps as well. People always spend more than stuff is currently priced at. Happens all the time. I can't help it people are stupid :).
Are Zipps overpriced? I don't think so. Campy wheels are over priced. Their disc is a brick and cost 2x a Zipp disc. Are there other great wheels out there that are cheaper- yes, absolutely. Are they as good? Probably not, but I am sure nobody would ever really notice the difference most of the time. It's all up to each person to decide.
Lots of story's out there about just anything. As far as Zipp goes, there are far more good stories than bad.
BTW- I sold my 999 set and am in the process of buying a new set for next year (606 or 808). I was going to go with Hed Stinger 60/90 but since they increased their prices recently I am now back in the Zipp camp. I am glad to have never left. I do agree about your statement about the Zipp ownership thing. Same can be said about BMW, etc...
Are Zipps overpriced? I don't think so. Campy wheels are over priced. Their disc is a brick and cost 2x a Zipp disc. Are there other great wheels out there that are cheaper- yes, absolutely. Are they as good? Probably not, but I am sure nobody would ever really notice the difference most of the time. It's all up to each person to decide.
Lots of story's out there about just anything. As far as Zipp goes, there are far more good stories than bad.
BTW- I sold my 999 set and am in the process of buying a new set for next year (606 or 808). I was going to go with Hed Stinger 60/90 but since they increased their prices recently I am now back in the Zipp camp. I am glad to have never left. I do agree about your statement about the Zipp ownership thing. Same can be said about BMW, etc...
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Tri_yoda]
[ In reply to ]
Yes, in general when us guys on the forum are talking about pricing I'm speaking (writing) in the context of the street price.
Tom Demerly
The Tri Shop.com
Tom Demerly
The Tri Shop.com
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Tom Demerly]
[ In reply to ]
Isn't retail closer to $1500 for the Zipp disc? $1200 seems like a bargain to me :). Hell the damn things sell for more than a grand (used) on ebay right now.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
How much was a gallon of gas when the Zipp disc was $400? How much is that gallon today? I wish my salary went up the same over that timeframe. The disc has had a few improvements, but the gas is still the same darn thing. Inflation is quite inflated, eh?
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
What happened to the day when you could buy Louisiana for $15,000,000?
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [Francois]
[ In reply to ]
And coke cost a nickel
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"don't you know that slow is the new fast? :)" -Turtlegirl
"I'm not a Dr., I just played one with your mom...." Stallion1031
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"don't you know that slow is the new fast? :)" -Turtlegirl
"I'm not a Dr., I just played one with your mom...." Stallion1031
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [johnphillips]
[ In reply to ]
Wow, where to even start on that one? What does a. the price of gasoline, have to do with b. the price of a Zipp disc? In historical terms, the price of gasoline has actually been far below average inflation rates. This is because the petrolium industry is so heavily regulated by the US government. And 40% of the price you pay for gas goes to pay taxes.
The price of a Zipp disc, on the other hand, has a direct relationship to the explosion of popularity in triathalon and biking in general. I think you could the same for any bike gear. It is simple demand driving the price.
Re: Whatever happened to the days when a Zipp Disk cost $400? [NYSLIM]
[ In reply to ]
Worked at a LBS in college and scored a "pro deal" on a limited edition set of white Zipp 404's. As I seem to recall the pro deal was 25% less than wholesale and each shop could purchase one. Everyone else at the shop was a roadie so I was able to take the deal for myself even though I was low man on the totum pole. My point is that although they are over 10 years old I'd have no problem using them at a race because (except for the lack of dimples and the ugly Zipp carbon hubs) they are not outdated. I recall reading here that Fleck's GF placed top 5 on IMC on his decade-old Zipps.
There is price and there is value. How many pieces of equipment that you buy today would you use in 2016 without compunction? Amortize the cost of a Zipp disc over the period of time that you'll use it and I think Zipp's are a value because (unless you're freaky that way) once you buy it you're not looking to replace it the next season...not that there's anything wrong with that if that's who you are. That said, since I did work in a LBS I'll never pay full retail for a Zipp disc as I'm not fast enough to justify the additional expense when a completely sufficient lower cost alternative is available...my Renn was much less and I don't think I'm any slower on it. I receive ZERO style points as I run a Renn in back and a Zipp up front...but Tai is gonna pimp my wheels once I decide on a color scheme.
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Michael in Fresno
"Do you spend time with your family? Good. Because a man that doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man" V. Corleone
There is price and there is value. How many pieces of equipment that you buy today would you use in 2016 without compunction? Amortize the cost of a Zipp disc over the period of time that you'll use it and I think Zipp's are a value because (unless you're freaky that way) once you buy it you're not looking to replace it the next season...not that there's anything wrong with that if that's who you are. That said, since I did work in a LBS I'll never pay full retail for a Zipp disc as I'm not fast enough to justify the additional expense when a completely sufficient lower cost alternative is available...my Renn was much less and I don't think I'm any slower on it. I receive ZERO style points as I run a Renn in back and a Zipp up front...but Tai is gonna pimp my wheels once I decide on a color scheme.
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Michael in Fresno
"Do you spend time with your family? Good. Because a man that doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man" V. Corleone