Best Zipp Wheels for Triathlon: Top Picks for Speed and Performance

When it comes to triathlon racing, every second counts. One of the most significant factors in determining your speed is the type of wheels you use. Zipp wheels are a popular choice among triathletes due to their lightweight and aerodynamic design. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best Zipp wheels for triathlon racing.

When choosing Zipp wheels for triathlon racing, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the depth of the wheel. The deeper the wheel, the more aerodynamic it is, but also the heavier it is. The second factor is the type of tire you’ll be using with the wheel. Zipp wheels are designed to be used with tubeless tires, but some models can also accommodate traditional clincher tires.

After researching and testing various Zipp wheels, we’ve narrowed down the top choices for triathlon racing. These wheels have been selected based on their aerodynamic design, weight, and compatibility with tubeless tires.

In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these Zipp wheels and highlight their features and benefits. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which Zipp wheels are the best fit for your triathlon racing needs.

Best Zipp Wheels for Triathlon

Are you looking to upgrade your triathlon bike with a set of high-quality wheels? Look no further than Zipp. With their innovative designs and commitment to performance, Zipp wheels are a top choice for triathletes of all levels. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best Zipp wheels for triathlon to help you choose the perfect set for your next race. Whether you’re looking for speed, durability, or versatility, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Zipp 303 S Tubeless Disc Wheelset

If you’re looking for a high-performance wheelset for your triathlon bike, the Zipp 303 S Tubeless Disc Wheelset is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The wider internal rim width provides greater performance and ride quality on almost any terrain.
• The tubeless design allows for the use of wider tires at lower pressures, for race-ready speed on or off the pavement.
• The Sapim CX Sprint J bend spokes are strong and reliable, providing excellent power transfer.

Cons

• At approximately 1420g, this wheelset is not the lightest on the market.
• The maximum tire pressure of 72.2psi may not be suitable for all riders.
• This wheelset is specifically designed for disc-brake bikes, so it may not be compatible with all road bikes.

The Zipp 303 S Tubeless Disc Wheelset is a high-quality product that offers excellent performance and ride quality. The wider internal rim width provides a more stable and comfortable ride, while the tubeless design allows for a wider range of tire options. The Sapim CX Sprint J bend spokes are strong and reliable, ensuring excellent power transfer to the road.

While this wheelset is not the lightest on the market, it is still a great choice for riders who value performance and durability over weight. The maximum tire pressure of 72.2psi may not be suitable for all riders, but it should be more than sufficient for most triathlon events. Finally, it’s worth noting that this wheelset is specifically designed for disc-brake bikes, so it may not be compatible with all road bikes.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wheelset that offers excellent performance and ride quality, the Zipp 303 S Tubeless Disc Wheelset is definitely worth considering.

Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon Rear Wheel

If you’re looking for a high-quality wheel that can handle a variety of situations, the Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon Rear Wheel is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Tubeless ready design allows for reduced tire pressures and lower rolling resistance, combined with increased cornering grip and compliance without the risk of pinch flats.
• The 58mm rim depth is a classic size that has carried athletes to victory in every kind of event and situation – triathlon distance, breakaways, field sprints and hilly finishes.
• The Zipp ABLC Sawtooth Technology uses a complex dimpling pattern to improve aero efficiency, combined with a versatile and durable new hub, the German engineered ZR1.

Cons

• The Cassette Body Type is XDR, which might not be compatible with some bikes.
• The hub/brake compatibility is Rim Brake, which may not be suitable for everyone.
• The price point may be too high for some athletes on a tight budget.

The Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon Rear Wheel is a great investment for any triathlete looking for a high-quality, versatile wheel. The Tubeless ready design, combined with the Zipp ABLC Sawtooth Technology, makes for a faster and more efficient ride. The 58mm rim depth is a classic size that has proven to be successful in a variety of situations. However, the XDR Cassette Body Type and Rim Brake compatibility may not be suitable for everyone. Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality wheel, the Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon Rear Wheel is an excellent choice.

Zipp 177 Rear Hub Freehub Body Shim

If you’re looking for a high-performance rear hub freehub body shim, the Zipp 177 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Revolutionary innovation
• Performance that is simply second to none
• Achieve the ultimate ride

Cons

• Limited compatibility with other wheelsets
• Expensive price point
• Requires professional installation

The Zipp 177 is a revolutionary innovation that delivers top-notch performance, making it a great investment for serious triathletes. With this rear hub freehub body shim, you can achieve the ultimate ride, thanks to its exceptional construction and engineering.

However, it’s important to note that the Zipp 177 is not compatible with all wheelsets, which can be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the high price point may be a deterrent for budget-conscious athletes. Finally, professional installation is recommended, which can add to the overall cost of the product.

In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality rear hub freehub body shim that delivers exceptional performance, the Zipp 177 is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of its compatibility limitations and high price point.

Zipp 303 S Carbon Disc Brake Wheel – Tubeless Black XDR, 12x142mm

If you want to take your triathlon performance to the next level, the Zipp 303 S Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is a great investment.

Pros

• The hookless tire bead design allows the tire to sit deeper and fatter in the wheel bed, improving aerodynamics and traction.
• The wide 23mm inner rim-width enables you to run wide gravel tires with low psi, reducing fatigue levels on rough terrain.
• The wheelset is lightweight, making it highly advantageous in competitive events.

Cons

• The wheelset is compatible with tubeless tires only.
• The wheelset is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.
• The wheelset requires a 12mm thru x 142mm rear axle.

The Zipp 303 S Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is designed to boost efficiency across the entire wheel-system, giving you “the next chapter of speed.” The wheelset is perfect for modern drop-bar bikes with ample frame clearance and is ideal for real-world challenges like gravel washboards and infrequently paved back-roads.

The hookless tire bead design improves aerodynamics, traction, and reduces tire deflection when aggressively diving in and out of turns. The wheelset is lightweight, making it highly advantageous in competitive events. Additionally, the wide 23mm inner rim-width enables you to run wide gravel tires with low psi, reducing fatigue levels on rough terrain.

However, the wheelset is compatible with tubeless tires only and requires a 12mm thru x 142mm rear axle. Additionally, the wheelset is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-performance wheelset that can help you achieve your triathlon goals, the Zipp 303 S Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is an excellent choice.

Zipp Rim Tape 700c x 18mm White

If you want to enhance your wider 18mm rims, the Zipp Rim Tape 700c x 18mm White is a high-performance tape that’s designed exclusively for Zipp’s wider firecrest carbon clincher rims and aluminum Zipp 101 wheels. The thin nylon snap tape “snaps” easily in place and contains two rim strips, enough for a wheelset. The non-adhesive back is available in white/silver color.

Pros

• Sold by the pair
• Model ID: WH-SPP-A0
• Wheel Size: 700C

Cons

• A bit thicker than some other brands, which may make it a bit more difficult to install a tire on the rim
• May not be suitable for riders who prefer adhesive rim tape
• Not available in other colors

If you’re looking for a reliable rim tape that can fit your wider 18mm rims, the Zipp Rim Tape 700c x 18mm White is a great option. It’s sold by the pair, so you’ll have enough for a wheelset, and it has a model ID of WH-SPP-A0. The wheel size is 700C, which is a common size for road bikes.

One of the downsides of this rim tape is that it’s a bit thicker than some other brands, which may make it a bit more difficult to install a tire on the rim. Additionally, it may not be suitable for riders who prefer adhesive rim tape. Lastly, it’s not available in other colors, so if you’re looking for a specific color to match your bike, you may need to look elsewhere.

In summary, the Zipp Rim Tape 700c x 18mm White is a reliable and durable option for riders who want to enhance their wider 18mm rims. It’s sold by the pair, has a model ID of WH-SPP-A0, and is designed for Zipp’s wider firecrest carbon clincher rims and aluminum Zipp 101 wheels.

Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel

If you’re looking for a high-performance wheel for triathlons, time trials, or road racing, the Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel is an excellent choice. With Total System Efficiency technology, tubeless and hookless rim profile, and Carbon Internal Reinforcement, this wheel is faster and lighter than ever before.

Pros

• The undulating 82mm-85mm deep rim shape with Sawtooth profile provides top aero efficiency and crosswind stability.
• The 23mm internal width maximizes performance when used with 28mm tires, reducing rolling resistance.
• The Cognition V2 hubset rolls efficiently, reducing drag and lowering friction.

Cons

• The Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel is a high-end product, so it may not be affordable for everyone.
• The wheel’s deep rim shape may cause difficulty when riding in strong crosswinds.
• The 12mm front and rear end caps may not be compatible with all bikes.

The Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel is an excellent choice for triathletes and time trial specialists who want to improve their performance. The wheel’s undulating rim shape with Sawtooth profile provides top aero efficiency and crosswind stability, while the 23mm internal width maximizes performance when used with 28mm tires, reducing rolling resistance. Additionally, the Cognition V2 hubset rolls efficiently, reducing drag and lowering friction.

However, the Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel is a high-end product, so it may not be affordable for everyone. The wheel’s deep rim shape may also cause difficulty when riding in strong crosswinds, and the 12mm front and rear end caps may not be compatible with all bikes.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-performance wheel for triathlons, time trials, or road racing, the Zipp 858 NSW Tubeless Disc C1 Wheel is a great choice.

Zipp 858 NSW Carbon Disc Brake Wheel – Tubeless Black HG, 12x142mm

If you’re looking for the ultimate deep-rim wheel for your road, triathlon, or time trialing bike, the Zipp 858 NSW Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is a great option. With its tubeless-ready and hookless rim profile, optimized tire bed, and 23mm internal rim width, you can easily install wider tires for better performance. Plus, its Sawtooth profile with an undulating 82mm-85mm deep rim shape is designed for top-performing crosswind stability and speed, and biomimicry technology reduces drag and side force.

Pros

• Zipp’s most advanced and fastest deep-rim wheel for road, triathlon, and time trialing
• Tubeless and hookless rim profile with optimized tire bed for easy tire installation
• Undulating 82mm-85mm deep rim shape, our patented Sawtooth profile, is our highest performing design for aero efficiency and crosswind stability

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy
• May not fit all bike models

The Zipp 858 NSW Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is a great investment for serious cyclists who want the best performance possible. Its advanced design and tubeless-ready rim profile make it easy to install and use, while its Sawtooth profile and biomimicry technology ensure top-performing crosswind stability and speed.

One potential downside is that this wheel is quite expensive, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious cyclists. Additionally, it is a bit heavy compared to some other options on the market, which may impact your overall performance. Finally, it’s important to note that this wheel may not fit all bike models, so be sure to double-check before making your purchase.

Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line deep-rim wheel for your road, triathlon, or time trialing bike, the Zipp 858 NSW Carbon Disc Brake Wheel is definitely worth considering.

Zipp 3ZERO MOTO Carbon Enduro/Trail Wheelset

If you’re looking for a high-performance wheelset for your triathlon, the Zipp 3ZERO MOTO Carbon Enduro/Trail Wheelset is worth considering.

Pros

• The Moto Technology allows the rims to pivot from either side of the spoke bed while traversing rough terrain, creating the feel of extra suspension and providing greater control and durability for pure speed.
• The single-wall design offers higher impact resistance and reduces the chance of pinch flatting, allowing you to run lower tire pressure for more traction in rough corners and a smoother ride in rocky terrain.
• The ZM2 Hub and E-MTB approval make this wheelset a reliable and efficient choice for your triathlon.

Cons

• The TyreWiz tire-pressure monitoring device is sold separately, which may add to the overall cost of the wheelset.
• The 6-Bolt Disc hub/brake compatibility may not be suitable for all bikes.
• The Slate/Stealth color may not be to everyone’s taste.

The Zipp 3ZERO MOTO Carbon Enduro/Trail Wheelset is a high-quality option for triathletes seeking a durable and reliable wheelset. The Moto Technology and single-wall design provide extra suspension and greater control and durability for pure speed. The ZM2 Hub and E-MTB approval make this wheelset a reliable and efficient choice for your triathlon.

In terms of drawbacks, the TyreWiz tire-pressure monitoring device is sold separately, which may add to the overall cost of the wheelset. The 6-Bolt Disc hub/brake compatibility may not be suitable for all bikes. Lastly, the Slate/Stealth color may not be to everyone’s taste.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a high-performance wheelset for your triathlon, the Zipp 3ZERO MOTO Carbon Enduro/Trail Wheelset is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best zipp wheels for triathlon, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

Rim Depth

The rim depth of your zipp wheels can have a big impact on your performance. Generally, deeper rims are more aerodynamic and can help you go faster. However, they can also be heavier and more difficult to handle in crosswinds. Consider your own needs and preferences when choosing the right rim depth for you.

Weight

Weight is another important factor to consider when choosing zipp wheels for triathlon. Lighter wheels can help you go faster and climb hills more easily. However, they may not be as durable as heavier wheels and can be more expensive.

Braking Performance

Good braking performance is essential for any triathlete. Look for zipp wheels with reliable and consistent braking, especially in wet conditions. Carbon braking surfaces can offer good stopping power, but may be more prone to overheating and wear over time.

Compatibility

Make sure your zipp wheels are compatible with your bike and other components. Check the specifications of your bike and wheels to ensure a proper fit. Also, consider any additional accessories you may need, such as cassette adapters or brake pads.

Price

Finally, consider the price of your zipp wheels. While high-end wheels can offer top-of-the-line performance, they can also be very expensive. Determine your budget and look for wheels that offer the best balance of performance and affordability.

By considering these factors, you can find the best zipp wheels for your triathlon needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wheel depth is ideal for triathlon bikes?

The ideal wheel depth for triathlon bikes depends on various factors such as the course profile, wind conditions, and personal preference. Generally, deeper wheels (around 60mm or more) offer better aerodynamics and speed, but they may be harder to handle in crosswinds. Shallow wheels (around 30-40mm) are more versatile and easier to handle, but they may not be as fast as deeper wheels. It’s important to test different wheel depths and find the one that suits your needs and style of riding.

Which rim brake wheels are recommended for triathlon races?

Most triathlon races allow rim brake wheels, but it’s important to choose wheels that offer good braking performance and reliability. Some popular options include Zipp 404 Firecrest, ENVE SES 4.5, and HED Jet 6 Plus. These wheels offer a good balance of speed, stability, and braking power, and they are widely used by professional and amateur triathletes.

How much can aero wheels improve performance in triathlons?

Aero wheels can significantly improve performance in triathlons by reducing drag and increasing speed. According to some studies, aero wheels can save up to 1-2 minutes in a 40km time trial compared to standard wheels. However, the actual improvement depends on various factors such as the course profile, wind conditions, and rider’s ability. It’s important to choose aero wheels that suit your needs and budget and test them in different conditions to see the actual benefits.

What are the top aero wheel options for triathletes?

There are many aero wheel options for triathletes, but some of the top options include Zipp 808 Firecrest, ENVE SES 7.8, and HED Jet 9 Plus. These wheels offer a high level of aerodynamics, speed, and stability, and they are widely used by professional triathletes. However, they can be expensive and may not be suitable for all riders.

Can you suggest a triathlon disc wheel that offers a competitive edge?

Disc wheels can offer a competitive edge in triathlons by reducing drag and increasing speed, but they may not be suitable for all courses and conditions. Some popular options include Zipp Super-9 Disc, ENVE SES Disc, and HED Jet Disc Plus. These wheels offer a high level of aerodynamics and speed, but they can be expensive and may require special frames and brakes.

What is the best road wheelset for heavier triathlon participants?

Heavier triathlon participants may require stronger and more durable wheels that can handle their weight and power. Some good options include Zipp 303 Firecrest, ENVE SES 5.6, and HED Ardennes Plus. These wheels offer a good balance of speed, stability, and durability, and they are suitable for riders up to 250lbs. It’s important to choose wheels that suit your weight and riding style and test them in different conditions to ensure optimal performance.