ZIPP 3ZERO MOTO
£1,645 | www.zyroisher.co.uk
These are the best-riding carbon wheels in this test, with a comfortable yet accurate feel. This might be down to the Motos’ single-wall rim, which pivots laterally around the spoke bed for improved traction, impact protection and comfort. The hub is one of the best here, and it’s easy to access the well-sealed bearings. Its 2.7-degree engagement angle is among the quickest – on our hardtail, pick-up of pedal inputs was exceptional. The Zipps were one of a few sets on test where we felt a noticeable (if slight) uplift in performance. Over off-camber roots we could hold higher speeds with more control over line choice, and on landings there’s a slightly damped feel. Each wheel has 32 bladed, J-bend spokes and five spoke lengths are used. Getting tyres on and off is tricky and there’s no Shimano Micro Spline option, but they ride beautifully, have a lifetime warranty and accept the Quark TyreWiz gizmo for real-time pressure data.