Zipp releases updates to Firecrest wheels, new disc-specific wheels

Zipp today announced updates to their 404 line and also extended their road disc line to include the 202 wheelset.

Zipp 202 Firecrest Carbon Clincher disc

Zipp had already added disc brake capabilities to the 303 wheelset in 2013, but with the growth in popularity for discs in road cycling, demand for  a lighter weight option has grown more pervasive. Zipp’s answer is the 202 Firecrest Carbon Clincher disc.

• 202 Firecrest Carbon Clincher retains its class leading aerodynamics, durability and impact resistance, making this a perfect wheel for everyday training, racing or the occasional gravel road excursion.
• At 32mm deep the 202 has an aerodynamic resume like wheels twice it’s depth yet handles better than a shallow box section wheel.
• The 88/188 hubset features the same design elements and manufacturing tolerances of all Zipp hubs, now with a 6 bolt disc brake mounting flange.
• The 188 rear hub is built with our virtual 3X lacing pattern, calling on the strength and aero properties of Sapim CX-Ray® spokes.

The new wheelset, which is expected to weigh in at 1530 grams, will be available in July 2014 for $2,825.

Zipp 404 Firestrike

Advances in aerodynamic engineering and wheel layup have led the evolution of Zipp’s 404 Firecrest to the 404 Firecrest.

While the  Firestrike™ design draws on the same rim patent used in Firecrest, it is the next evolution of the brand. All-new Showstopper™ brake track technology applies a molded in brake track pattern with a Silicon Carbide surface to improve stopping in wet weather.

Advances in computational fluid dynamics have led to a new rim shape provides a 34% reduction in side force while maintaining the aero performance of the Firecrest rims, for the ultimate in aero balance. As well, revised ABLC® (Aerodynamic Boundary Layer Control) advances led to smoother airflow through more frequent and smaller vortices, providing unmatched stability and control on even the windiest days.

The pro-proven 88/188v9 hubset also sees an update to the 88/188v10 generation. Improvements include added torsional stiffness gained through the virtual 3X lacing pattern utilizing Sapim® CX-ray spokes, and precision setting of the bearing preload. That means no bearing pre-load adjustment required. Smooth rolling ceramic bearings put every last watt into moving you toward your goal.

Completely refined rim production processes have enabled Zipp to create the most durable rims they’ve ever built, strong enough to conquer the toughest roads between Paris and Roubaix.

Finally, Impress™ graphics not only save valuable weight but also create a unique and lasting impression of the 4 most feared letters in speed, Z-I-P-P.