New wheels for next season
08-18-05, 06:07 PM
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New wheels for next season
So I’ve been thinking about a new wheelset for next season. I figure I can save all winter and have enough for something really nice. I know I want tubulars and am leaning toward carbon rims (no trispoke). Right now I’m caught between a Zipp 404 wheelset and a Corima Aero wheelset. Does anyone have experience with either or can anyone recommend something of similar quality? Thanks.
08-19-05, 02:31 PM
#2
downtube shifter
I asked a similar question on FixedGearFever in the beginners help forum.
Spectrum provides a good (and opinionated) discussion on rims and wheels here.
Edward Zimmermann provides a good overview on lightweight tubular wheels here.
Neither is specific to track wheels, but good reading.
Since Kissena is an open air track with a bumpy surface, I personally decided on sub 350gm box-sectioned tubular rims laced 28 hole for comfort and lightweight. For the main reason that I am keeping steady at 60Kg.
Most people who ride the Zipps are well-funded (I guess mostly through sponsorship). Its a lot of change to drop on a set of wheels. I have seen good deals on 404 wheelsets (most recently Don Walker was selling a new pair for ~$1,000 in the sales forum).
You are bigger and stronger than me, so you should be able to handle the deep section rims better than I in cross winds.
But, to what benefit and at what cost? Most people have to choose between aerodynamics or lightweight. With the Zipps you get both.
I think you can have someone build a wheelset that would weigh <1,800gms (including tires) using strong light rims, DT revolution spokes, and D/A hubs for less than $600.
The Zipps are on average 1,800gms and priced retail at $1,600.
I think the issues you have to consider are:
your weight
how aggressive you are on the bike
the surface of the track
the wind and air conditions of the track
what type of racing you will be doing
Spectrum provides a good (and opinionated) discussion on rims and wheels here.
Edward Zimmermann provides a good overview on lightweight tubular wheels here.
Neither is specific to track wheels, but good reading.
Since Kissena is an open air track with a bumpy surface, I personally decided on sub 350gm box-sectioned tubular rims laced 28 hole for comfort and lightweight. For the main reason that I am keeping steady at 60Kg.
Most people who ride the Zipps are well-funded (I guess mostly through sponsorship). Its a lot of change to drop on a set of wheels. I have seen good deals on 404 wheelsets (most recently Don Walker was selling a new pair for ~$1,000 in the sales forum).
You are bigger and stronger than me, so you should be able to handle the deep section rims better than I in cross winds.
But, to what benefit and at what cost? Most people have to choose between aerodynamics or lightweight. With the Zipps you get both.
I think you can have someone build a wheelset that would weigh <1,800gms (including tires) using strong light rims, DT revolution spokes, and D/A hubs for less than $600.
The Zipps are on average 1,800gms and priced retail at $1,600.
I think the issues you have to consider are:
your weight
how aggressive you are on the bike
the surface of the track
the wind and air conditions of the track
what type of racing you will be doing
