Zipp Carbon Wheels

This is the most popular wheel in the range and in fact one of the most popular in the general market for carbon wheels, as a result of its versatility; not surprisingly, its available in nine versions including a carbon clincher.

The basic Zipp 404 has a tubular and clincher version (with an aluminium rim) with a 58 mm profile, putting it in the category of wheels that can be used for many cycle race disciplines. This is apparent from a history of top results. The wheelset weight is 1250g for the tubular, 1658g for the clincher and 1557g for the 404 carbon clincher.

The wheels all use Zipp￢ﾀﾙs technology of ABLC dimples and vibration reduction (VCL C) and the 404 carbon clincher includes extensive new aerodynamic design and material technology, to accommodate the different demands of this type of wheel.

It's also available in track, MAX and cyclocross models, with extra stiff carbon used for the track with an increased spoke count for both track and Max wheels, using two cross lacing on the rear.

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This 44mm profile wheel is available in tubular, clincher and cyclocross versions with the clincher having an integrated aluminium rim which helps braking and use where conditions are variable.

Zip designed the 303 for use on rougher roads in variable weather conditions, while still featuring a low weight at 1171 g for a set. This has made it suitable for instance for the cobbles of the Paris-Roubaix, while being sufficiently rigid to give good acceleration and strength when pure speed is required.

It's also very stable in crosswinds, making it a good choice for triathletes, especially for smaller riders, who might have more difficulty controlling high profile wheels.

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At a profile of 81mm this carbon wheel from Zipp is firmly in the Aero category of time trials and triathlons. However it's also been used successfully by sprinters who conserve their energy in the peleton and then use the wheel￢ﾀﾙs acceleration properties in the final kilometres.

The standard Zipp 808 is available in tubular and clincher versions, both with a MAX model with increased spoke count, as has the 808 track wheel which also uses a track-specific dimpled rim.

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Although this wheel has a low profile at 32mm, Zipp claim it rolls on the flat as well as some higher profile wheels. So as well as its natural place in climbing, helped by its light at 1095g, it has had top results in the Tour, Giro and other well-known races include plenty of flat racing.

It also has sufficient lateral stiffness to handle descent well, with predictable handling and good acceleration characteristics. The Zipp 202 is only available as a tubular.

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