In the world of cycling, where every gram counts, Zipp has made a bold move with its latest offering: the 202 NSW wheelset. This release challenges the status quo and offers a fresh perspective on what riders should prioritize.
The Rise of Lightweight Wheels
While deep-section aero wheels have dominated the market, Zipp dares to bring back the focus on lightweight alternatives. The 202 NSW, weighing in at an impressive 1,090g, is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and performance.
Redressing the Balance
Zipp's senior design engineer, Ben Waite, sheds light on an interesting reality: many pro peloton bikes exceed the UCI's minimum weight limit. This insight led to the development of the 202 NSW, offering racers a chance to optimize their bike's weight for uphill challenges.
Crafted for Climbers
The 202 NSW is designed with climbing specialists in mind. Zipp emphasizes its ability to provide speed and agility on steep grades, empowering riders to conquer ascents with ease. The claimed weight includes essential components, and Zipp assures that most wheelsets will be even lighter due to their calculation methodology.
Advanced Rim Technology
The rims, with a depth of 35mm, showcase Zipp's Biomimetic Laminate technology. This innovative approach mimics natural processes, utilizing mixed-modulus carbon types to enhance stiffness and toughness where needed. The result is a rim that performs exceptionally well in various riding conditions.
Complex Construction, Exceptional Performance
Ben Waite describes the 202 NSW rim as the most complex Zipp manufactures. It involves a meticulous process of manually placing over 50 individual carbon strips, each with a specific purpose. This attention to detail allows Zipp to achieve remarkable weight and strength characteristics.
Hookless Rims and Compatibility
The wheelset features hookless rims, a design that has sparked debate in the cycling community. Zipp stands by its technology, recommending the use of compatible tires and specific pressure settings. This approach ensures a safe and reliable riding experience.
Hubset and Compatibility Options
The 202 NSW utilizes Zipp's ZR1 SL hubset, offering 66 points of engagement. Rear wheels come with XDR or SRAM/Shimano driver bodies, and a Campagnolo N3W option is available separately. The wheelset accommodates a maximum system weight of 115kg, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
Pricing and Warranty
The SRAM 202 NSW wheelset carries a premium price tag, with the front wheel priced at £1,520 and the rear at £1,875. However, Zipp provides a comprehensive lifetime warranty, covering manufacturing defects and structural damage from riding incidents.
Final Thoughts
Zipp's 202 NSW wheelset is a game-changer for climbers and performance-oriented riders. Its lightweight design, advanced rim technology, and meticulous construction set it apart. While the price may be steep, the lifetime warranty offers peace of mind. I believe this wheelset will be a game-changer for many riders, and I'm excited to see its impact on the cycling world.
