Zipp 404 Carbon Clincher Road Wheel

The new 404 58mm Firecrest Clinchers look and feel different over its predecessors. They still have that WOW feeling when you are going down the road of “these are quick”, however, there are a number of issues with this model. The biggest has to be the increased price. At around £2,400 they are not cheap and are a sizeable increase in price over previous years 404 models.

Zipp would argue that this is justifiable in the increased technology that you get with this years model resulting in greater stability and speed. In the grand scheme of things though, unless you are a die hard athlete, you are paying a premium for an extra second or two over a 40km race.

The 404 Carbon Clincher claims to have the highest temperature capacity of any carbon clincher ever tested. Those that have ever ridden carbon clinchers will well know that on a technical course the lower heat capacity that clinchers have over tubulars can be a let down but Zipp have invested hugely into their new composite system reducing tire bead softening. Zipp claim that this years 404s rim can loose over 150 degrees in a single rotation which is very comforting when bombing down your favourite mountain road!

The handling of the 404s in crosswinds is far superior to last years model. They do not twitch it gusty conditions so inspire a greater confidence when out riding. The stiff ride still makes them a firm favourite for race day but you may not want to use these all year round.

The braking performance is impressive with the Zipp blocks especially considering it is a carbon rim. The downside is that high pitched squeal that they make and somewhat disconcerting burning smell during prolonged heavy braking.

The rim weight is consistent with similar carbon clinchers (1557g), however, they are 300g heavier than the 404 tubular and £300 more expensive. If you are serious about only riding on clinchers then the Zip 404 is a firm favourite. If, however, weight and price are a factor in choosing your dream wheel then you may be best looking at the tubular version.