Fulcrum Zero vs Fulcrum One vs Zipp 101

[jkfelix69]

I am currently wanting to upgrade my wheelset. I ride a Cervelo S1 with a set of Easton Circuit and want to upgrade to a more responsive set of wheels. I am situated in a mountainous area with a lot of wind so deep dish isn't really an option. I generally ride at about 30km/h and am looking for a set of wheels to take me to the next level, although I know that the work that I put in is most important (not the equipment).

My focus is the Half Iron Man event and hence aerodynamics is also important. I can buy a set of fulcrum One for $850, or Fulcrum One 2-way for $1050, or the Fulcrum Zero for $1200 or a set of Zipp 101 for $1100. I don't want to spend too much as I want to

upgrade to a Trek Madone in the next 3 years so would rather spend the extra cash then.



I don't know if spending $1000+ on an upgrade is worth it?


My aim is to buy a set of wheels that will be good for training and racing.
I.e. Improve my performance and in doing so feel that I have spent my money well on an upgrade.

Any comments would be much appreciated.

 

[Will1985]

Forget aerodynamics on 30mm depth rims. With those choices the aerodynamic upgrade is really only derived from bladed spokes which are t as significant as a deeper rim. If you really want some aerodynamic wheels to help you in your 70.3 (which won't be mountainous), look at 40mm upwards (Hed Jet/Stinger 4, Zipp 303, Sram S40 etc...). You may as well get them as in all probability any future bike you buy won't have wheels which are any better than what you have already.

Any benefit you gain with aero wheels will be negated if the huge lump on top of the bike isn't put into an aerodynamic position first. I woud also say continue training on what you have - call it resistance training - and swap to your upgrade wheels for the race.

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

This might help you a little regarding wheel choice if you have not come across it before, but you might want to read this analysis (including some of the comments) first for a more holistic consideration.