I've been lucky enough to get a job at a generous specialized concept store and have the opportunity to dump my wage on a juicy new set of a wheels. I've narrowed my choice down to these three, though I do theoretically have access to Reynolds, Campagnolo and Enve wheels (the latter two, however, are significantly more expensive for us). I thought I'd ask you guys: what wheelset would you pick and why? Lets chew the fat on some gorgeous kit.
I plan to use the new wheel set as my daily workhorse. Am also hunting for a power meter so I might build up the wheelsets with a powertap GS.
Zipp 404 Firestrike:
Pro:
- Reputedly class leading braking surface = good everyday wheel
Genuine aero credentials
Super wide
Excellent scope for resale
fairly attractive
Can build with PT GS
con:
- comparatively heavy (~1625g)
brand history of inferior hubs (however, the new hubs are meant to be better)
probably not very stiff (hubs)
~$300 more than Roval, $1000 more than Xentis
Roval Rapide CLX 64
pro:
- super wide
very attractive
DT hubs + ceramic speed = best hubset among the three
~80g lighter than zipp (1545g)
cheaper than zipp
given Specialized's reputation, the wheels will be *almost* as aero as they are made out to be (i.e. faster than zipp)
moderate scope for resale
con:
- Expensive compared to Xentis (~$700 more)
braking on previous gen Rovals was reputedly terrible, expect average to mediocre braking performance = not as good for everyday use
low spoke count may make the wheels a bit flexy/inhibit handling
cannot integrate powertap
Xentis Squad 5.8
pro:
- apparently they have excellent braking performance = good everyday wheel
pretty light (~1500g)
cheap
PT integration possible
make the boss happy
con:
- Not wide = may not feel or handle as nicely
not that attractive
poor scope for resale
apparently almost as fast as zipp, but otherwise unproven aero performance
I'm not exactly sure what to get. Each wheelset has strengths and weaknesses. Naturally its very likely I will be happy with any choice as they are all high quality wheelsets. The issue is the balance of factors from practicality for everyday use, performance, aesthetics, and resale value. If you tell me about your experiences riding these wheels you'll help me a real world grip on the strengths and weaknesses of these wheels. I might opt for a crank based power meter.
Thanks!
