ZIPP 404 FIRECREST TUBELESS DISC

Fast road wheels for less

The key element of the new 404 wheelset is the rim shape. It’s an evolution of the groundbreaking Firecrest’s broader, blunted-edge, deep-section shape. It also adopts the hookless/ tubelessspecific rim design from the 303: the hookless rim is much lighter and stronger than a hooked rim. It’s also cheaper, cleaner and greener to make. This means the latest wheels are a whopping £800 cheaper than the old ones! Be aware, though, that hookless rims are still a new design and not all tyre brands have updated their design to meet stringent international standards.

Although the new rim shape is slightly less aero than the old model, the latest model has big weight savings (350g), better hubs and bearings, and reduced friction. This, along with the greater comfort produced and a broader tyre bed that shapes the tyres better, means that Zipp claims the new design is 4.4 watts more efficient. The rims’ 23mm internal width is optimised for 25-28mm tyres and the new wheelset is much more comfortable than the old one. The lower pressures suggested by the brand’s online calculator don’t slow it down, but give better compliance and grip with the road. The 58mm rim depth makes it a vitally fast wheel on the flat and, unlike some rivals, it’s easy to control in adverse weather.

Our test pair weighs in at 703g front and 824g rear (a very respectable 1,527g for the pair). This means the deep-rim aero advantage isn’t a disadvantage when it comes to climbing. Overall, the 404 is a superb wheelset. sram.com

VERDICT Simply a great wheelset for those who like to go fast on the road