With limited budget, should I get a pair of race wheels (e.g. Zipp 404), or a pair of training wheels with PowerTap (to train and to race on)? Ultimately, which choice will I benefit more from in terms of race results? I have no experiece with power meter, and have only rented a pair of race wheels once. Currently a mid pack cyclist, and cycling is my best event of the 3. Any advice will be appreciated.
I’d go with these options… in order.
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Buy training wheels with Powertap and rent race wheels for the A races with a powertap, www.racewheelrental.com
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Training wheels with a HED 60 front and a wheel cover
HED is cheaper than Zipp and just as good.
Shanks
If it is any help, I had a pair of 404s sold them and bought a PT. Never looked back - although when I picked them up to hand over the to the guy I was thinking twice. I had not touched them in awhile - damn they were light.
I just sold my race wheels and went with a power tap. I think I get a lot more feedback from the daily use of the powertap compared to the 4 times I used the race wheels last year. You will not regret this decision. I did go with a 24 hole powertap so that one day when the cash flow is a little better I could upgrade the training wheel to something that is worthy of training and racing, like a HED Jet 60.
PT every time. Get a wheel cover and then later you can get a clincher front racewheel and you will be all set. I also sold my 404’s to get a PT, have not regretted it for a second, but then my PT wheel is an 808 
PT every time. Get a wheel cover and then later you can get a clincher front racewheel and you will be all set. I also sold my 404’s to get a PT, have not regretted it for a second, but then my PT wheel is an 808
Also got an 808 with the PT. Have a wheel cover for races. Haven’t used my disc in years. Probably should sell it.
JJ