Opinions on American Classic Carbon 40 clincher wheels vs Zipp 303 Firecrest

Hi,
I’m looking for a set of wheels. I was all set on purchasing a used set of firecrest 303’s. I came across someone selling a brand new set of American Classic Carbon 40 wheels.

Has any of you ever ridden a set of these American Classics?

If so what was your opinion?

With Zipp it’s a proven product. I don’t know much about the American Classic

Thanks. Gene

It’s a pretty narrow rim, with a 14mm bead width, compared to the 303s at 17.25mm.

Hi,
I’m looking for a set of wheels. I was all set on purchasing a used set of firecrest 303’s. I came across someone selling a brand new set of American Classic Carbon 40 wheels.

Has any of you ever ridden a set of these American Classics?

If so what was your opinion?

With Zipp it’s a proven product. I don’t know much about the American Classic

Thanks. Gene

You don’t hear many people who regret buying a set of Firecrests. I finally moved up to a pair of 404s this year and I really like them. Th e American Classics might a little on the narrow side if you ever consider running a 25 or wider tire.

I have two sets of 2015 Carbon Clincher 40 and I can tell you the rim 2D drawing should have been updated on American Classic website more than a year ago.

The 2015/2016 dimensions (checked by me with digital calipers) for the Carbon Clincher 40 are :

  • depth 40mm
  • max width 25.0mm
  • width at bottom of brake track 24.6mm
  • width at top of brake track 23.0mm
  • internal width 16.9mm

Weights (without rim tape) : 594gr for the front wheel and 785gr for the rear wheel → Total 1379gr

Honnestly, they do ride very well, quite lighter than the 303 (I had some great 303 firecrest built by Rich@wheelbuilder.com) with better stiffness (American Classic use flat spokes made from 2.0 spokes and you can feel it when riding). Braking is slightly less good than 303 but not by much.
All in all, if you can get a set of 2015 or 2016 AMC Carbon Clincher 40 with the latest rim, you won’t be disappointed !