Zipp Super-9 Carbon Clincher Disc
Zipp's Super-9 holds market‑leader status thanks to a long pro-racing pedigree and razor‑sharp aerodynamic refinement; the Carbon Clincher Disc version adds the real-world convenience of clincher tires and the stability advantages of a disc wheel, making it easier and often less costly to run than tubular-only choices. Compared with the tubular wheelsets in this list it sacrifices some of the classic tubular rolling-characteristics but wins on serviceability, widespread parts/support and proven speed under race conditions.
Rocket speed
Clincher comfort
Rocket speed
Clincher comfort
Review Summary
"Riders praise the Super-9 for raw aerodynamic speed, predictable handling in flats and crosswinds, and reliable clincher convenience; some note it feels heavy for climbs and is expensive to service."
Crosswind calm
Full carbon disc construction designed to minimize drag in time-trial conditions
Crosswind calm
Full carbon disc construction designed to minimize drag in time-trial conditions
Time-Saving Convenience
Skill Development & Mastery
Zipp's Super-9 holds market‑leader status thanks to a long pro-racing pedigree and razor‑sharp aerodynamic refinement; the Carbon Clincher Disc version adds the real-world convenience of clincher tires and the stability advantages of a disc wheel, making it easier and often less costly to run than tubular-only choices. Compared with the tubular wheelsets in this list it sacrifices some of the classic tubular rolling-characteristics but wins on serviceability, widespread parts/support and proven speed under race conditions.
Rocket speed
Clincher comfort
Crosswind calm
Full carbon disc construction designed to minimize drag in time-trial conditions
Proven Zipp aerodynamic shaping and dimpled surface for improved stability at race speeds
Rocket speed
Clincher comfort
Crosswind calm
Full carbon disc construction designed to minimize drag in time-trial conditions
Proven Zipp aerodynamic shaping and dimpled surface for improved stability at race speeds
ENVE SES 7.8 Tubular Wheelset
ENVE's SES 7.8 Tubular is best-in-class for riders wanting a refined balance of deep-section aero, tuned compliance and exceptional stiffness-to-weight thanks to ENVE's advanced layup technology; it delivers superior crosswind control and ride quality compared with deeper, raw-aero models like the Mavic Comete. Although it sits at the premium end of the price spectrum, the SES 7.8 rewards buyers with measurable time-trial performance and boutique-level construction that many value-focused competitors (HED, Reynolds) don't match.
Balanced aero
Plush glide
Balanced aero
Plush glide
Review Summary
"The ENVE SES 7.8 tubulars are highly regarded for exceptional aero efficiency, stiff acceleration, and confident crosswind stability; the premium price and occasional brake-track wear are common complaints."
Tubular traction
Engineered rim profile that balances low drag and crosswind control for TT and flat-road racing
Tubular traction
Engineered rim profile that balances low drag and crosswind control for TT and flat-road racing
Time-Saving Convenience
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
ENVE's SES 7.8 Tubular is best-in-class for riders wanting a refined balance of deep-section aero, tuned compliance and exceptional stiffness-to-weight thanks to ENVE's advanced layup technology; it delivers superior crosswind control and ride quality compared with deeper, raw-aero models like the Mavic Comete. Although it sits at the premium end of the price spectrum, the SES 7.8 rewards buyers with measurable time-trial performance and boutique-level construction that many value-focused competitors (HED, Reynolds) don't match.
Balanced aero
Plush glide
Tubular traction
Engineered rim profile that balances low drag and crosswind control for TT and flat-road racing
Tubular rim construction for a supple ride feel and lightweight rotational mass
Balanced aero
Plush glide
Tubular traction
Engineered rim profile that balances low drag and crosswind control for TT and flat-road racing
Tubular rim construction for a supple ride feel and lightweight rotational mass
$3,500-4,500 CAD
HED Jet Black Disc Plus
HED's Jet Black Disc Plus is the value-focused contender in this group, offering disciplined aero shape and rugged construction at a price point that undercuts many boutique rivals; as a disc-specific wheel it provides similar handling stability to the Zipp Super-9 but often with lower purchase and replacement costs. It trades off some of the premium carbon refinement and marginal weight savings of ENVE or Reynolds for a practical, race-ready package that appeals to riders balancing budget and performance.
Bullet stability
Low drag
Bullet stability
Low drag
Review Summary
"The HED Jet Black Disc Plus is reviewed as a fast, stable, and durable time-trial wheel delivering strong value compared with super-premium brands; some users find it heavier and less refined than top-tier carbon models."
Snappy sprints
Solid carbon disc design focused on maximizing straight-line speed in time trials
Snappy sprints
Solid carbon disc design focused on maximizing straight-line speed in time trials
Time-Saving Convenience
Recreational Enjoyment
HED's Jet Black Disc Plus is the value-focused contender in this group, offering disciplined aero shape and rugged construction at a price point that undercuts many boutique rivals; as a disc-specific wheel it provides similar handling stability to the Zipp Super-9 but often with lower purchase and replacement costs. It trades off some of the premium carbon refinement and marginal weight savings of ENVE or Reynolds for a practical, race-ready package that appeals to riders balancing budget and performance.
Bullet stability
Low drag
Snappy sprints
Solid carbon disc design focused on maximizing straight-line speed in time trials
Stiff construction that translates rider power efficiently into forward momentum
Bullet stability
Low drag
Snappy sprints
Solid carbon disc design focused on maximizing straight-line speed in time trials
Stiff construction that translates rider power efficiently into forward momentum
$1,800-2,600 CAD
Mavic Comete Ultimate T
Mavic's Comete Ultimate T is the outright drag-minimizer designed for riders chasing the lowest possible CdA on flat time-trial courses, featuring an aggressive rim form tuned for maximum straight-line speed and a historically strong value-to-performance ratio. Compared with the others, the Comete typically delivers class-leading raw aero for less money than some boutique U.S. carbon options, but that comes with compromises in crosswind forgiveness and comfort versus ENVE's more tuned layup approach.
Classic aero
High stiffness
Classic aero
High stiffness
Review Summary
"The Mavic Comete Ultimate T is a classic race-winning wheelset praised for excellent aerodynamic performance, solid handling and long-term durability; critics point to older tech and higher weight versus newer carbon designs."
French flair
Purpose-built tubular carbon rims tuned for time-trial speed and stable handling
French flair
Purpose-built tubular carbon rims tuned for time-trial speed and stable handling
Time-Saving Convenience
Skill Development & Mastery
Mavic's Comete Ultimate T is the outright drag-minimizer designed for riders chasing the lowest possible CdA on flat time-trial courses, featuring an aggressive rim form tuned for maximum straight-line speed and a historically strong value-to-performance ratio. Compared with the others, the Comete typically delivers class-leading raw aero for less money than some boutique U.S. carbon options, but that comes with compromises in crosswind forgiveness and comfort versus ENVE's more tuned layup approach.
Classic aero
High stiffness
French flair
Purpose-built tubular carbon rims tuned for time-trial speed and stable handling
Lightweight, race-focused construction that emphasizes acceleration and sustained pace
Classic aero
High stiffness
French flair
Purpose-built tubular carbon rims tuned for time-trial speed and stable handling
Lightweight, race-focused construction that emphasizes acceleration and sustained pace
$2,400-3,200 CAD
Reynolds AERO 80/90 Tubular
Reynolds' AERO 80/90 Tubulars are a targeted, cost-conscious high-depth option that blend modern aerodynamic profiling with competitive pricing, offering strong stiffness and predictable handling for club and semi-pro time trialists. While they may not be the absolute lightest or most exotic layup in this group, they provide an attractive performance-to-price ratio versus premium options like ENVE or the race-optimized Mavic, making them a pragmatic choice for riders seeking high-depth aero without the top-tier price.
Deep-section speed
Compliant ride
Deep-section speed
Compliant ride
Review Summary
"Reynolds AERO 80/90 tubulars are seen as an aerodynamic, stiff set that balances performance and price with consistent braking and road feedback; a minority report they're heavier and less cutting-edge than Zipp or ENVE alternatives."
Confidence boost
80/90mm deep tubular rim combination optimized for top-end TT velocity and stability
Confidence boost
80/90mm deep tubular rim combination optimized for top-end TT velocity and stability
Time-Saving Convenience
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Skill Development & Mastery
Reynolds' AERO 80/90 Tubulars are a targeted, cost-conscious high-depth option that blend modern aerodynamic profiling with competitive pricing, offering strong stiffness and predictable handling for club and semi-pro time trialists. While they may not be the absolute lightest or most exotic layup in this group, they provide an attractive performance-to-price ratio versus premium options like ENVE or the race-optimized Mavic, making them a pragmatic choice for riders seeking high-depth aero without the top-tier price.
Deep-section speed
Compliant ride
Confidence boost
80/90mm deep tubular rim combination optimized for top-end TT velocity and stability
Tubular construction delivers low weight and a comfortable, responsive ride quality
Deep-section speed
Compliant ride
Confidence boost
80/90mm deep tubular rim combination optimized for top-end TT velocity and stability
Tubular construction delivers low weight and a comfortable, responsive ride quality
$2,000-2,800 CAD