Wheel choice dilemma

m@gnus

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I currently ride a Specialized Allez Comp. In the past I have been into triathlon, but this year I am doing the Tour d'Etape. I want to upgrade my wheels this year before the Etape but next year I intend to return to (middle distance - 90km ride) triathlons.

So... I'm looking to buy wheels that will be okay for the Etape but then be good for tri. I was thinking of the Planet X 50s. Will they be okay for the Etape?

And for twice the price, will I notice the difference between them and the Zipp 404s?

(I realise that both sets of wheels are probably too good for my current bike, but my upgraded tri bike of next year will be much better).

All advice gratefully received.
Thanks.

Unknown

This is my personal opinion - but for rides like the Etape I think you're best sticking to a pair of standard hand built wheels. If you do have the misfortune to have a problem with them then usually you can bodge a repair that's good enough to get you to the finish.

I'm not sure that the same could be said for the Planet X wheels. They do look very good for racing on though.

Cyclistm

Answer to your second question "will I notice the difference between them and the Zipp 404s" No you will not, the planet-x are cracking wheels.

Will they (planet-x)be okay for the Etape? I agree with AndyP if I was riding something like the etape I would want a standard set of wheels. Partly because they will be stronger, but mainly because you can take and change spare tubes much easier than spare tubs.

m@gnus

Thanks guys. The Planet X come as clinchers as well as tubs - if I go for clinchers would you then consider them to be a realistic option for the Etape?

monty_dogcp

I'd be wary using a carbon wheel on a big decent in the wet - you don't get the same braking effect and in a bunch could mean you running into the back of someone.

schlepcycling

You shouldn't have a braking problem as long as you fit carbon specific brake pads. They've tested some in cycling weekly in the last few weeks and raved about them, the only problem if I remember was the price.

domtyler

I don't think you will go too wrong with the PXs. They are just as light as many standard wheelsets and will fly on the flats and DHs and make a loverly sound. I may be tempted to go with Tubs and take the risk to be honest as you will be thankful next year in your bike splits. I appreciate that some others would want to take a more cautious approach than me.

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gavintc

Be aware that the advertised very low weight of the Zipp 404s are for the tub version. The clinchers are the same weight as Kysrium ESs. I would suggest getting a set of ES wheels and spending the remaining œ500 on some nice clothing. At least with clinchers, a repair at the side of the road will be easier than a tub.

farrell

I have just bought a pair of 404 clinchers....I love them. Although they are little bit heavy, I still find them about the same as my Eurus wheels, once you get them going they're wicked. I used them last weekend for training and crusing at 24-26mph feels effortless on a flat but I did notice a slowdown with the odd hill.

For the mountains you won't go wrong with some very light handbuilt tubs.





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