I have a friend who has a set of 2001 Zipp 303’s (tubular) that she has never used, and is willing to “give me a deal” on. (We did not discuss price, so I’m not sure what that means exactly.)
Would these be a good set of race wheels? (For triathlons in general, and IMMoo specifically.) As I understand it, these wheels are less aero than the 404’s, but lighter, so it seems to me that they might be well suited for the IMMoo bike course. True?
Are there any significant changes between 2001 models and the 2003 models? And what would be a reasonable price for these (assuming the consensus is that they would be worth purchasing)? I think the tires and cassette would probably be included.
303’s are a great choice for lighter riders, people who want light & pretty aero, and/or wheels for crosswinds. I’d love to have a pair for my wife’s bike. If the price is good I wouldn’t hesitate to race with those wheels, if I were you. Heck I’d race with them if the price was good.
So, what’s a good price? Well, I believe 2003 303’s are going for about $1200 or so for a pair. A few online shops still have 2002 303’s for $895 or so. Take it from there…
One thing to check is the hubs. I’m not an expert on the changes to Zipp’s over time, but there was a period sometime prior to 2002 when the hubs where less than stellar. Maybe someone else can comment.
I would be willing to pay $500-600, but that is just one persons opinion. Hopefully, you’ll get others.
Regardless 303’s would be very high on my list of an ideal setup for a lot of female riders.
point me to where I can find zipp 303 for $895. My woman is wanting to get some fast. I’m trying to convince her to get a disc rear. She weighs 130 lbs.
Don’t worry about that, the 303s are not a wheel for light riders only. In fact, they are stiffer in the vertical plane than the 404s, and the rim is overbuilt to accomodate crit racing. This is also why Zipp was able to take so much weight out of that rim for the Z3, whereas the weight gain is much less when going from a 404 to a Z4.