Hey guys,

I currently use 18mm climbing wheels but was looking to purchase another set for all-around training and racing. My main concern is getting blown off the road with a Zipp 404 on back and 303 on front. I weigh 104 lbs. Would I be better off with a set of 303's? Would running a 404 on the back give me any noticeable benefit on flats/descents? I am looking at the Firecrest Clincher version of these wheels, and the 404 rear is only 40~ grams heavier than the 303 rear wheel. I spoke to some other juniors with my build, they run 60mm deep wheels and say it doesn't affect them much; but I wanted to get some other peoples opinions. Sorry if this question seems vague, I haven't ever ridden deeper section wheels as a climber and wanted to get some thoughts.

Thanks,
Rishav

I don't think anybody in here can tell you how comfortable you'll be on them. Can you borrow or rent the wheels?

Academically (and pedantically speaking - which this subforum is infamous for), yes there would be a difference as it's you're asking two different wheel options.

Real-world, seat of the pants? Highly doubtful, well after road and weather conditions at the time, and riding ability. I run 60/67mm, and sidewinds can be hazardous.

Waste of time and money, get a power meter and/or a coach and train better

Are you a junior?

Go for it! IMO you will be fine w/deep section on the rear. It sounds like you already have a shallow set...switch if you expect high winds.

I always train and race with a Stages power meter, and I am professionally coached. I was asking for advice on wheels, but thanks for the input anyways..

Yes, I am.

I might just do that. I talked to my coach and LBS owner, and he thinks I will be alright with the 404 on the rear. Going to think about it for a little bit and then place the order. thanks for the advice!

If you can't borrow or rent some wheels, you may purchase a cheep Chinese made set ($300.00ish) and see how they feel. If you like them, you have a decent backup set, or could sell them and probably get your money back.

I weight over 200 and get blown around on 50's.... can't imagine it at 100 pounds. You may be better off with a lightweight, shallower rim, but that's just my 2 cents.

Where do you ride?

Nebraska. Admittedly we get quite a bit of wind.

Understood

Hi - I weigh 107 (adult female).

I race 303/404 Firecrest Clinchers, from about 2012, I think the profile hasn't changed since then, but not 100% sure. The 404 in back is fine in all conditions. The 303 is fine up to 10-15 mph steady wind but more than that or if it's gusty, it's a bit of a handful to control. I will swap out for a shallow front wheel if the conditions are gusty. The break pad swap takes like 2 minutes, so it is not a barrier at all. It looks funny but who cares, confident = fast.

I live in Colorado and it is quite windy in spring - i'll leave my shallow aluminum wheels on in winter/early spring, and when it may rain - the zipps don't stop well in the wet.

If keeping your current wheels (or at least, front wheel) for windy days is an option, I would not hesitate on the Zipps. I assume since you are a junior you may gain some mass as you grow, so will be less affected over time.

Best climber and accelerator would be 24 or 25mm ax lightness tubular rims.

I had zipp 303 tubulars for years, they are great. You will feel strong winds but still controllable

Have you considered 202 front, 303 rear?

I have a set of clx 50 tubulars and they are the ultimate wheel imo. 1230g, 50mm depth and ceramic dt hubs for $2,400. You can probably get something similar with custom for less but this is a straight shot.

most people, i have found, have already decided that they want to buy new wheels and just want affirmation from some secondary source to go ahead a buy them. i'm sure it will be a rewarding experience. but eventually the honeymoon ends.

anyway, i'm with the guy who wrote post #4. (except for the coach and power meter part. )