Wheelset for a new P2
I purchased a new Cervelo P2 last month with an eye towards Ironman Arizona in November. Only missing piece to the puzzle an aero wheelset. I've been eyeing both the Reynolds 72/90 and Zipp 808s (or perhaps a 404 front and 808 rear). Thoughts, comments, advice and suggestions most welcome!
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I just read up quickly on the Reynolds and they seem very cool and fast. I have the Zipp FC808s, but will race with the FC808 in the front and a disc in the back. They seem very fast, especially when paired with latex tubes and race tires. I am very, very happy with them. IMAZ is flat and very fast, so more aero is more better. I also have a set of FC404's and haven't used them in a very long time. I raced IMLP last yr on my FC808s (even with all the climbing). But I'm a bigger dude (~180lbs race weight) and I believe I have good bike handling skills. I've never had any issues in any type of wind with this setup. You'll see 10 pairs of Zipps for every set of those Reynolds on the course. That doesn't make them better, but they are certainly trusted by many. Reynolds white paper claims that their wheels produce less drag at more extreme yaw angles than the FC808s, but I'm keeping my Zipps!
I have a Zipp 808 FC front (that I bought used for ~700) and a matched set of older 404s (also used when I got them). Qualitatively, I don't see a big difference...perhaps none. If anything, the 808 is a little smoother, but I think that's just a newer hub. :-) I am NOT a super bike handler (getting better!) and I am a mid-sized dude (~150 lbs) and I have no trouble with the 808 FC up front and a disk in the back. I wish I could comment on the other wheels more intelligently.
Have you considered Flo? If you have the money and want all carbon, then the prior responses/advice apply. Flo's are significantly cheaper, slightly heavier (?), but have an aluminum braking track (no need to switch brake pads, can ride them more often with less concern for damage, etc. They are hard to get though....go on sale for a few minutes every other month or so and sell out in minutes.
I can't say enough good things about the FLO wheels. I have them on my P2. I have a 60, 90, and a finally snagged a disc last go round. Check the FLO website for their next pre-order.