The Zipp 404 is their leading all-around performer and the Firecrest rim shape makes it an even greater threat to win any race on any terrain. Many athletes are giving the Firecrest 404 rave reviews thanks to its blunted Firecrest® rim shape that increases aerodynamics, stability in crosswinds, tire performance and strength all at the same time. Black rim decals are borderless, thinner and lighter. Weight for this 58mm section wheel is 640 for the front or 1445 for the set.

By controlling airflow around the back half of the wheel with a wider, blunted edge, Zipp made the Firecrest 404 nine seconds faster than its predecessor over 40km at a moderate 10-degree wind angle. At higher wind angles, the improvements are even more dramatic in terms of both speed and stability. That's because Firecrest moves the center of pressure closer to the steering axis, so crosswinds exert lower side force on the wheel. A quick peek at Zipp's drag comparison chart confirms no other wheel cuts through crosswinds as effectively as the 404 Firecrest.

Other benefits of the new rim shape include better lateral stiffness for improved acceleration and a more solid feeling when cornering. The rim's composite structure is designed to absorb impacts by flexing slightly outward - which gives you a comfortable ride and long-term durability.

The Zipp 404 is built with Zipp's Carbon Bridge technology that dramatically increases impact resistance with a Kevlar thread running perpendicular to the carbon laminate on the tire bed of the rim. Between layers of carbon in the rim construction lies Zipp's VCLC system, which uses a shock-absorbing material to reduce vibration by 10%. The VCLC system also helps your wheels stay glued to the pavement under all conditions. A Zipp 88 hub features a 17mm axle for high strength and super-round stainless steel cartridge bearing for low friction.