53x12

I am looking at getting my first set of tubulars for races/fast group rides. I really like the Zipps, but can't justify/afford to spend $2100 at this time. While I love the idea of the dimples, I really don't think they are worth the money. That aside I am looking for a good alternative to the 404s, something in the 50-60mm range. So I was wondering what you guys ride as alternatives to the 404. I really want a rim that is full carbon, not an aluminum with a carbon wrap. From some research I have been able to come across a hand full that will meet my needs: low-mid $1000 range, 50-60mm, well built and fully carbon tubulars. While weight isn't too big of a factor, it would be nice to keep it in the 1300-1400g range which I think should be possible. What other wheels would fit the bill besides the ones I have listed?

Williams Cycling 58
American Classic Carbon 58
Cane Creek Aros 58
Ritchey WCS Carbon 58
Neuvation C50
Soul S 5.2T
Hed Stinger

Namenda

Reynolds DV46

53x12

Yeah I looked at the Reynolds and forgot to include them on the list. Thanks for reminding me.

cslone

I ride the Stingers and LOVE them. Just sold my 50's and am mounting Corsa Cx's on the new 60's and 90 tomorrow.

Ritchey 58 is an old undimpled Zipp, and tested slightly better in the Rous Aerodynamic test this year. Might be something to look at.

michaelmc

With better hubs (DT Swiss 240s) than any of the other listed wheels.

jefmad

Rol Wheels Carbon 58's, 1330 grams, $1550

https://www.rolwheels.com/2008-Wheels/ROL-Carbon-58.html

53x12

Admittingly one thing that I am not that well educated on is hubs. Is there a simple way of figuring out which hubs are better and how much better?

53x12

Are the ROL's any different than the other 58's? I am guessing they are also using the old 404 rim. However they are using their own inhouse hub, right?

michaelmc

I don't think there's some sort of standard criterion, but the DT Swiss hubs are particularly well-regarded.

Dubbayoo

If you can't afford the Zipps why add the Reynolds DV46 to the list? They're even more expensive.

jefmad

Correct. I know a few people with their wheels and they are all happy.

Sirrobinofcoxly

What about the Dura-Ace WH-7850-C50-TU? I'm surprised that no one mentioned it yet (but then again, not really, since they are just as expensive as the 404's ).

patentcad

I suppose the next thing you'll tell us is that Campy is an alternative to Dura Ace.

cslone

Of course it's not an alternative. It's better than Dura Ace.

Rutnick

better but then again so is Red and both are significantly lighter.

michaelmc

SNORE. Where's the quantitative proof that either is "better"?

patentcad

I wonder if you'll the smoking or non-smoking section in Hell. Only joking, it's all smoking of course.

53x12

Actually I have been able to find a wheel set for $1700, however it is a little bit more than I would like to spend. However it is still cheaper than the Zipps. You might be thinking of the DV46 clincher which are well into the $2300 range.

prendrefeu

Where?!?

53x12

CC has them for $1800 online and I would have to go back online to see the site that has them for $1700.

53x12

Another question for someone my weight (160-165), what kind of spoke setup should I be looking for? Could I get away with a 16/20?

ldesfor1@ithaca

Easton's Tempest II carbon tubulars... i scored mine for 1100. granted I got lucky.

elgalad

I don't think it's really worth it. I'm 140lbs, and I'm hesitant to ride anything less than 18/24, both for stiffness and sturdiness.

53x12

Does anyone know much about the EC90 Aero? It uses a 56mm rim, is that something that Easton designed or is it another companies rim? I also don't know much about the Easton R4 hubs.

tranzformer

I'm sure at the price range/wheels you are looking at there won't be too much a difference between the wheels. There will be small differences with the hubs being used as well as what kind of spokes. That might be worth looking at as well. I know there are other guys on here that can give you better advice wheel wise than I can.