I'm trying to decide whether or not I should buy a set of Zipp 404 Tubulars, or build up a fixie. I know if I post this up on the Fixed/Single Speed forum, they would all say build the Fixie.

Here's my background. 19, and raced Men's C in the MWCCC (Mid-west) last year, moving up to B's this year (well, when the season starts in the spring). I ride a 2005 Cannondale R1000.

After reassessing my bank account, $1600 is a lot of money for a set of wheels. I'm started considering purchasing Zipp's because our team is sponsored by them and we get a good discount. I won't reveal how much of a discount but its definatly less than retail.

Or I can build up a fixie to train on. Probably an IRO or Surly frame.

It's hard to pass up a good sponsored deal but then again its a lot of money I can use to buy other things than may improve my motor better. I can always sell my [porky, yet bomb-proof] current wheels (Mavic K Elites), and upgrade to K SL's or the new ES's for a significantly less amount of money.

Ideas, suggestions, comments?