Any wheel setup recommendations for Ironman Wisconsin from someone who’s familiar with the course and/or did the inaugural race.
Matt
This course has lots of hills. Many of the downhills have a corner at the bottom, with another uphill around said corner. And if I remeber correctly, even corners on some uphills. Fun! (ha) I saw some very strong riders with a disk…but most went with something light. I used Zipp 404’s with no problem. Good luck!
Zipp 909s.
Zipp 909’s are (is) a great set-up, and many experienced riders are capable of riding the IM-Moo course with that top-drawer wheelset…especially if you are looking to hit a goal time. They are fast.
Depending on your experience level, riding strength and race goals however, you may want to go without a disc. I have ridden the course alot. It is very technical, with sharp turns, steep short climbs and a few very fast descents…some into some blind corners. After a lot of experimentation (I own a variety of HED CX/JET/DEEP wheels), I have decided to use a pair of Ritchey WCS Z Deeps 16 spoke front/20 rear. Light and aero enough for my particular race needs and I think that they will do the trick in whatever weather conditions may be present that day.
Good luck with your training and we’ll see you in Madison in September.
I raced at IMMoo last year. What can I say? Pace yourself…I came through mile 80 at 3:50 and EXPLODED for a 5:42 bike split (don’t even ask about the run).
As for equipment…I made the mistake of selling my Zipp 404s last spring. I used Ksyrium SSC SLs at IMMoo. They are adequate, but I think 404s are the best possible set-up.
Here’s why:
Mile 1-16 fairly flat with a prevailing tailwind (aerodynamics are important)
2 Middle Loops have many corners and short/steeper hills…I think a wheel that you can easily accelerate is critical here.
Mile 94-112–Return on flat into stronger prevailing headwinds…Aerodynamics returns as a key feature.
I have 909s this year, but I’m not sure that even a very light disc like a Zipp will be optimal for all but the strongest riders. Here would be my thoughts…If you are strong enough to go sub-5:20 on most courses, pull out the 909s. If not, use 404s.
What about the “ppor man’s” 909: a Renn disk rear and an Alps or something else up front?