I am ready to make the plunge and start using power to train/race. My question is whether you think it makes more sense to purchase a Mavic Open Pro wheel or a 404? I will use the wheel for racing and training (including some time in the trainer). Thanks for your help.
I’m scared of Zipps, as I’ve heard from someone I respect quite a bit that they only last for him for about one season. Have heard excellent things about Reynolds, and plan on getting a set one day over the rainbow. If this is for fairly flat races, you could always go with the Open Pro and get the CH Aero Cover’s from somebody like Rich at www.wheelbuilder.com I know he just got a bunch of 'em in, and they’re pretty cheap and highly effective.
I second what Sojo says.
if you’re getting the 404 rim for its aero goodness, IMO you’re better of getting the open pro (a fine rim, btw), and putting the savings towards a hed3 or similar front wheel if you’re racing tri – assuming you don’t have an aero front. The rear wheel is relatively unimportant from an aero perspective compared to body position and front wheel. I dunno the exact numbers, but I’d think that rim weights b/w the 404 and the Open Pro aren’t that far apart, either.
got a nearly new for sale on the classifieds if interested (mavic open pro)
but willing to sell the hub etc. w/o wheel