The most striking new feature immediately catches the eye: the rim profile looks like a circumferential wave, which should reduce drag and crosswind susceptibility. We analysed both in the GST wind tunnel in direct comparison with the familiar 404 Firecrest. The new 454 proved to be less susceptible to wind: it needed 224 watts for 40 km/h compared to 223 watts (404 Firecrest); the tiny difference is within the measurement accuracy, but is still surprising. It is also no less susceptible to wind. Although the 454 set weighs around 100 grams less per wheel (front/rear 685/838 grams) than the 404 Firecrest, it is comparable in weight to the already familiar NSW version of the 404. The wheels are laterally stiff and brake excellently for carbon rims.
Against this background, the price being asked for the new 454 wheels hardly seems justifiable: the wheelset is said to cost €4,000 (for comparison: 404 NSW: €2,800, 404 Firecrest: €2,200).
PLUS aerodynamically top, light
MINUS Extremely expensive
Info www.zipp.com
