it’s decided, those are my two contenders for my 2014 season. (70.3 and full IM).
So… which one should I get? I’m inclined for Mavic (now I’m using 2012 Zipp FC 404/808 combo, changing beacuse want 80mm in both), better aerodynamics but worst rolling resitance as far as I’ve read.
Well and Zipps… everybody nows the bla bla.
Help ST!
I would go for the new 2014 Zipp wheels with beyond black diamond cut decals and new V9 hub.
Hi,
this is Zack from Mavic. You’ve probably come to know Lars as the guy offering suggestions here on the slowtwitch, but I’ve jumped in here and there in the past.
I just wanted to offer Mavic’s perspective on the CXR80 wheel-tire system … at the risk of inciting all kinds of indignation and outrage! Sorry, but I just hoped to present our side and you can take it or leave it as you like.
These wheels have been proven many times to be fastest and most stable in the wind tunnel, including in an open “shoot out” with wheels brought by journalists. As a general rule, aerodynamic resistance is the most significant force to overcome in cycling, especially the faster the rider goes.
Regarding rolling resistance, it’s a known topic and we can’t hide the fact the CXR tires are a little slower than others. However we measure it to be a lot less significant than the other forces working against a rider. Furthermore, the quality of the tires is remarkable in other ways:
Furthermore, Mavic is known for quality wheel assembly, including durable hubs and bearings, high stiffness and power transfer, and easy service.
I would encourage you to at least give the wheels a try. If you would like to arrange a demo, shoot me a PM and we’ll find a shop or a rep who can help you experience them.
It isn’t the CXR80 wheel that has bad rolling resistance, it is the mavic tire. Absolutely no way ever should you use that mavic tubular tire. You can use the mavic wheel with any tire, even with the blade. So, still a great wheel.
and get a disc for the rear =)
it’s decided, those are my two contenders for my 2014 season. (70.3 and full IM).
So… which one should I get? I’m inclined for Mavic (now I’m using 2012 Zipp FC 404/808 combo, changing beacuse want 80mm in both), better aerodynamics but worst rolling resitance as far as I’ve read.
Well and Zipps… everybody nows the bla bla.
Help ST!
Thanks Jack,
it’s true that any tubular tire will fit on the CXR 80 wheels, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. The Mavic tires have a sidewall coating to prevent abrasion from contact with the blade. The tread structure on the shoulders of the Mavic tire also contributes significantly to the aerodynamic performance of the wheel-tire combo. Finally, Mavic wouldn’t recommend or endorse using a different tire with the CX01 blades in place, because we couldn’t guarantee a good fit between them. Other tires that are fatter, narrower, less straight, or differently shaped might interfere with the blade laying flat on the sidewall.
In any case, we’ve got a strong roster of athletes including Tim O’Donnell, Leanda Cave, Fred Van Lierde, Mike Aigroz, Andrew Starky, and the entire Garmin-Sharp professional team that have been plenty successful on the Mavic tires …
thanks for the interest and civil conversation!
Any chance you guys will be updating that tire in the near future to provide better crr? Doing so would be the difference between being one of the fastest wheel/tire combos available to THE fastest wheel/tire combo.
Thanks for the great comment!
I have no idea about tire updates. As far as I know, we’re confident that the current tire offers the best blend of (or compromise between) every performance characteristic. That being said, I’m sure that our product guys are scrutinizing every detail to find any additional performance gain possible.
best regards - zack