Zipp 303 Tubular: V4 Pre-Firecrest vs Firecrest....

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Unbrokenchain
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by Unbrokenchain

So looking for some knowledge on the topic above. The V4 pre can be had for some good deals, but are the Firecrest that more advantageous? I know supposed more aero but anything else?

Thanks

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efeballi
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by efeballi

More aero and more stable in crosswinds. Also wider, so your tyres sit wider than what their label say, reducing rolling resistance. Zipp also says that they've embedded kevlar or something to improve durability on rough surfaces.
So yeah, the Firecrests have a distinct edge, I would say.


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istigatrice
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by istigatrice

@efeballi the OP wanted to know about Tubulars, the tyres won't sit wider on Tubulars...
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Waldo
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by Waldo

The Kevlar was incorporated within the "carbon bridge" structure on the v4 tubular and carried through with the Firecrest version.
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veganeric
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by veganeric

The main advantage of the firecrest shape is its cross wind stability. They are slightly more aero, but the difference is minuscule. Most of the aerodynamic gain over the old V-shaped rims was already made with the V4, as were the durability improvements. The firecrest wheels handle better, but at a slight weight penalty compared to the V4. If you haven't already seen it, here is an interesting video about the development of the V4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g37k9ZoWo6Y

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HillRPete
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by HillRPete

Hasn't it been pointed out around here that older models were faster at very low yaw, while Firecrest ones would be almost as good on top of that stall much later?

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