merlinextraligh

I've noticed a lot of people really like Reynolds Stratus DV wheels on here. Comparing just on a numbers basis, I'm not sure I get it. Reynolds Stratus DV 46mm rim, 1250g. Zipp 404 (tubular) 58mm rim, 1292g, Zipp 303 (tubular) 44 mm deep rim, 1124g.

It appaears that the Reynolds is comparable in weight to the 404, and in aerodynamics to the 303 (and don't forget it doesn't have the all important dimples). And the price seems comparable. It seems to me the 303's would be a superior pick to the Reynolds if weight was the concern, and the 404's if aerodynamics was the issue.

I'm thinking about getting a set of 303 tubulars, mostly for crits, and also for hilly events.

For those of you that prefer Reynolds, is it the build quality, durability, or am I missing something else?

briscoelab

I think it is the durability of the Renyolds wheels. They are very stout, but not even in the same ballpark as the Zipps for aero.

ImprezaDrvr

I'm not a featherweight and have been steered away from 303 tubulars and towards either 404s or the Reynolds sets. I've heard and read a few complaints about the relative stiffness off the regular 303 tubie when compared to the others. But I don't have the slightest idea how much the new Reynolds wheels are.

Vinokurtov

I've owned (and still own) a number of Zipps, and 3 sets of Reynolds.

The Stratus is a nice compromise between the 303's and 404's for a light, aero wheel. Right now you can get the Stratus DV (not the UL version) for around $1100 new if you shop around, which makes it a better price point than the Zipps.

But where they really shine is in stiffness and durability. I've ridden over some horrific potholes, taken out two spokes with a water bottle (and finished the race) with the Stratus.

The Zipps, on the other hand, were an expendable item after a season or two, and have a rep of cracking on holes and debris. I didn't crack my 303's, but they lost sidewall integrity and were in general a dissapointment.

A fair amount of the Stratus weight is in the hubs also, the rim itself is fairly light.

briscoelab

This is true, and there are a few places in Europe that you can get the Renyolds rims only! THen you can build the wheels up with some Tune or White Ind hubs and come up with a really nice set of wheels that are light and very durable.

nitropowered

Show me the way. I'm looking for rims only too.