Disc braking is about control, in any weather condition, preferably with feel and stopping power when absolutely required. The latest Zipp Firecrest rim technology full takes advantage of the lighter rim that eschews a rim brake track to truly optimize the strength and aero dynamics for the purpose and rim depth profile of each of their Firecrest Tubeless designs. and the standout 404 Disc has simply gotten better- faster, more stable, and better suited for the exciting possibilities of tubeless tires. The concerted push towards disc brakes on road, gravel and cyclocross bikes has driven the development of this Tubeless ready, disc brake specific 404 Firecrest Carbon rim and complete rear wheel that is lighter and more aerodynamic than it's predecessor. Featuring Zipp's 177D disc brake hub and Sapim CX-Ray spokes, the rim design carries the rider faster, further afield, with greater control all around.

The 404 is still the go-to racing wheel of choice, for each discipline, and still one of the most desirable wheel options for serious enthusiasts who race against their friends and their own standards. The 58mm deep 303's Tubeless disc brake only rim now has a wider 19mm internal measurement. When paired with a 700x25 tire, lower drag from the previous version. That effect is even more pronounced with a 28mm tire. Zipp carried through their proven disc-specific rim design featuring ABLC dimples, which extend all the way to the outer edge of the rim. The new wider rim then meets their Aero Balance requirement; Zipp's industry leading crosswind stability and low aerodynamic drag shape and design that defines all Firecrest wheels. This 404 Firecrest has a max width of 26.4mm, which means the inflated tire will work in greater concert with the rim to carry and hold the laminar air flow that not only increases speed, but improves overall wheel stability in varying wind conditions.

Developing a reliable, strong, and effective tubeless carbon rim configuration lead the engineers to approach all facets of the new 404 at the same time. This isn't an old design with a change of rim bed. Obviously the rim shape, width, and disc brake requirements allowed for a free hand in developing the tubeless aspect, and seeking ultimate reliability, tubeless seal, and tire hold at the low pressures afforded by today's tubeless ready tires, led the engineers to a rim bed made with internal ridges to proactively lock the tire’s bead in place. This provided the security desired, and still allows the user to opt for standard clincher tires and tubes, though with the advances and benefits in tubeless tires, it seems tube use will be limited strictly to emergency situations.... Read More