Zipp

404 Firestrike Carbon Road Wheel - Tubular

Zipp's iconic 404 Firecrest has long been a favorite wheel choice in the peloton, known for its ability to handle a multitude of ride conditions while delivering aerodynamic advantages over wheels with shallower rims. This year, Zipp has upped the ante with its limited edition 404 Firestrike Carbon Tubular Road Wheel, which boasts claimed improvements in handling and aerodynamics compared to the 404 Firecrest.

After countless hours in the wind tunnel, the Firestrike profile emerged with a slightly wider stance than the Firecrest for increased stability across the wheel and better handling in crosswinds. However, it isn't just the rim shape that sets the Firestrike apart from the rest. Zipp's Carbon Shield construction process features a refined lay-up sequence of unidirectional carbon fiber that's paired with a new mold-tool design and mold process that results in a consistently strong yet lightweight rim that can handle the toughest road conditions.

Along with its durability, the Firestrike features Showstopper brake track technology. Showstopper involves a uni-directional molded pattern imbued with silicone carbide particles for increased modulation control and grab while braking in wet conditions. Zipp claims that this technology allows the Firestrike brake track to mirror aluminum rim braking when things get rainy when paired with the included Platinum Pro EVO Brake Pads, eliminating worries of poor braking that can plague carbon rims in wet weather. The leading edge clears debris and channels water off of the rim, allowing the chasing edge of the pad to gain purchase on the textured brake surface.

While Zipp built these wheels to be virtually bombproof, let's not forget about the aerodynamics. An updated version of Zipp's signature Aerodynamic Boundary Layer Control dimpling smooths airflow with strategically placed and sized dimples across the rim surface, allowing the wheel to slice through the air like a hot, carbon knife through butter. The 404 Firestrike's 58mm depth sits right in the balance of air-cutting speed demon and all-around awesomeness. They're built to tackle the toughest of roads and get you to the finish line fast, even in swirly, windy conditions.

At the center of the wheels sit Zipp's super smooth 88v10 (front) 188v10 (rear) hubs, which are in turn centered on Ceramic Speed bearings for fluid rolling that ensures the maximum watts are converted into forward motion. The Zipp 404 Firestrike Carbon Tubular Road Wheel is part of a limited edition run, with only 404 sets in production. Each wheel comes with a titanium skewer, Zipp valve extender made by Silca, a wheel bag, and a set of Zipp Platimum Pro Evo brake pads.