ok…Let’s hear your thoughts. Heading into the season, I’m looking for a set of versatile race wheels–to be used on just about any course. Originally was thinking 404’s on front and rear; then I thought maybe 404 front and 808/1080 on rear?
808 front, 1080 rear.
Why do Zipp? Go with HED Stinger 9’s front and rear.
Why do Zipp? Go with HED Stinger 9’s front and rear.
No allegiance to go with Zipp…just more familiar with their line. I’m very open to whatever is best
You should have named your post: What race wheels do you use?
(Because most of the responses will be what that person rides…LOL)
I hope you get useful information. I have none to offer, other than the “best” race wheels for me, are the best value for my $.
My personal preference is disc rear and 808 front. Doesn’t matter how hilly, how short or long it’s still going to be the fastest set up for “most” people.
A disc first. A disc is versatile. A disc can be light. A disc in easy to handle.
I have a set of Hed 3s. They are a handful in the wind.
I would much rather have a disc and a 404 or something of that nature.
My second choice after that would be a set of 808s.
Dude, a disk is the LEAST versitile wheel. It is a race day only wheel. Not able to be ridden on some courses. Harder to change a spare on for most. If I was to have just one rear race wheel hands down it would be a Zipp 808/P2.4.
Sure some disks are light, others are however quite heavy and a recent rash of frames that they can not be installed in…money is on the 404/808 with a cover if really need be.
I disc in versatile for the following reasons:
- It’s always a fast choice.
- It’s legal on 99% of courses that I’m aware of
- It often “evens out” cross wind instability cause by deep fronts/trispoke fronts
I would say that a Zipp 900 fits perfectly in this situation. It’s light at 960 grams, fits all frames and is a proven fast wheel. Usable except at one of the most exclusive races in the world, if the OP qualifies for Kona put the $100 rental tab in with your $5000 other expenses for the trip.
I would argue people who buy 35-45mm wheels are the least “versatile” wheel because it will rarely be the fastest. Where as a good portion of the time a disc will be.
According to HED the ideal wheel might depend on your speed and where you race.
http://www.hedcycling.com/wheels/
No point running pro wheels if you cant ride pro speed.
Kevin