Zipp 404

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by Dura_Ace
Has anybody made any experience with the Zipp 404 or heard something about them ? Do you think they are really good wheels, or just overpriced ?

I've researched this a bit myself, and I don't think ~$1k USD for any proven, well-engineered deep section carbon wheel is 'overpriced'. I feel that the wheelset is perhaps the single most important component of the bike, and a good set of wheels will make more of a difference than just about anything else you can upgrade. It's no small feat to make a wheelset that is lightweight, aero, and durable, and you often get what you pay for where this is concerned.

In the case of the Zipps, it seems they've been improving over the last couple of years, and Team CSC used them to very good effect in this year's TDF. This deep section 404 wheelset appears to be durable, and the tubular version is light enough to be used effectively in the hills as well. The clincher version is new for this year, but it is a bit heavier, with all the extra weight at the edge of the rim, which makes it more of a strictly flat course wheelset. Be advised that crosswinds will quickly make themselves known with this wheelset.

At any rate, you'd have to spend significantly more money to do better (e.g. Campy Bora). Had I not fallen into a deal on an expensive Campy set, I would have opted for the Zipps. You can read reviews on the Zipp 404 here:

http://www.roadbikereview.com/Wheelsets/Zipp%20Speed%20Weaponry,404,Tubular/PRD_28390_2490crx.aspx

Well, I've choosen the clinchers, because 1. I am not into tubular tires and 2. because I dont want to break on carbon.

The little more weight, well I think the other 2 points are more significant in my eyes.

Thanks for your reply