Wheel stiffness is sometimes seen as an unqualified positive, but talk to the engineers and the picture gets murkier. We spoke to Hunt and Parcours to find out whether extra rigidity can hurt grip, comfort and even speed

Tadej Pogacar will lead UAE Team Emirates-XRG at Liege-Bastogne-Liege this Sunday, with the team confirming a balanced support squad as the world champion looks to continue a near-flawless 2026 campaign. The Slovenian arrives in the Ardennes as the defining rider of the spring, already a winner of S...

With the 202 NSW, Zipp have produced their lightest wheelset to date. This is an uncompromising climbing specialist, built around a single priority: minimum weight. At 3,800, the premium is significant, and the question of whether the performance justifies it is a fair one. We put the 202 NSW through its paces across our test routes to find out.Zipp 202 NSW | 1,064 g (including tubeless rim tape and freehub body) 3,800 | Manufacturers websiteWhen Zipp stamp NSW on a rim, expectations are high, and rightly so. It signals nothing less than cutting-edge engineering. With the 202 NSW, which stands for Nest Speed Weaponry, the American wheel manufacturer is now delivering their lightest wheelset to date. At just 1,064 grams, it is a clear statement aimed straight at gravity.So whats the recipe? A carbon lay-up inspired by the 353 NSW model, and designed to maximise stiffness. At the same time, reinforced bead hooks ensure confident handling and impressive stability. How the whole package performs out on the road is exactly what we set out to discover in our first test.While the 202 designation points to the shallow rim depth, NSW marks Zipps top-tier spec. Put the two together and you get the lightest wheelset in Zipps current line-up.The new Zipp 202 NSW wheelset in detail: steel instead of carbon, the Indianapolis paradoxThe spokes are the first thing that give you pause. While rivals including DT Swiss, Roval and NEWMEN have moved to Vonoas ultra-light carbon spokes, Zipp have taken a different approach, opting for conventional, albeit very light, steel spokes from Alpina. Is this a conservative play it safe approach for a pure climbing specialist, or a smart move in favour of durability? Zipp justify steering clear of carbon with a lack of long-term data, a bold stance in an industry that usually chases every new trend. It makes the low weight all the more impressive.That headline figure of just 1,064 g is achieved primarily through a new hub-set developed in Germany, ultra-light spokes and an updated carbon lay-up. By combining different fibre types, the lay-up is said to mimic the behaviour of a tendon, boosting stiffness around the spoke bed while increasing strength at the rim edge.The white decals against the matte carbon finish create a clean, premium lookeven if the classic J-bend steel spokes now feel a touch old school.But the overall package is anything but old-fashioned. A generous 23 mm internal width meets Zipps proven hookless technology and a versatile 35 mm rim profile that stays composed even in crosswinds. At a hefty 3,800, you also get tubeless valves, pre-installed rim tape and the matching freehub body included.We wanted to find out whether this blend of tradition and high-tech really delivers on the road. So we fitted our go-to setup, pairing a Continental GP5000 S TR at the rear with the aerodynamically optimised Continental Aero 111 up front, and put the 202 NSW through its paces on our toughest test loops. Is this wheelset the new benchmark for mountain missions, or does skipping carbon spokes hold it back?For the rim, Zipp rely on their proven hookless design with a generous 23 mm internal width, optimised for wider tires and lower air pressures.At a total weight of just 1,064 g, the 202 NSW comfortably undercuts the 1,100 gram mark.Zipp 202 NSW Wheelset on Review: Agility meets ComfortFrom the very first metres on our test loop, its clear that the Zipp 202 NSW is a thoroughbred climbers wheelset. Weighing in at just 1,064 g, it accelerates eagerly and delivers a lively, responsive ride. It feels light and direct when you put the power down, yet without the twitchy edge that often plagues ultra-lightweight, highly technical wheelsets.Comfort is equally impressive. Zipp havent developed a brutally-stiff, unforgiving wheel. Compared to some aggressively-tuned race wheels, the 202 NSW offers a touch more vertical compliance. While this might result in a feel that is not quite as razor-sharp at first as something this light might suggest, that blend of snap and subtle give quickly proves to be a real strength.The boost in comfort is immediately noticeable. Vibrations are effectively damped, saving valuable energy, especially on long climbs and rough surfaces. Handling remains beyond reproach throughout, feeling balanced, highly predictable and completely composed even through fast corners.Who are the Zipp 202 NSW for?With the 202 NSW, Zipp are not chasing marginal aero gains for the final tenths in a crit. Instead, they have built a dependable partner for long days in the saddle and demanding gran fondos. It is a wheelset that strikes a balance many ambitious amateur riders will appreciate. Aerodynamic gains only come into play above 40 km/h; the exceptionally low weight makes itself felt much earlier. You notice it the moment the road tilts upwards, and the high level of compliance takes the sting out of rough surfaces that stiffer carbon wheels would pass straight through to your legs.Conclusions about the new Zipp 202 NSWTechnically, Zipp have delivered in a big way with the 202 NSW. At 1,064 g with a 23 mm internal width, it is a serious statement even with steel spokes. On the road, it impresses with an agile, comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride. At 3,800 it remains a niche option, and the hookless design, despite our positive experience, is likely to divide opinion. Those chasing maximum aerodynamic stability will find deeper rims a better fit. For climbing enthusiasts who put performance above price and want a dependable, high-end lightweight wheelset, the 202 NSW is a compelling choice with no compromises on handling.Topsvery low weightcomfortable ride qualitypredictable handlingFlopspremium priceFind out more on zipp.com.Der Beitrag New 2026 Zipp 202 Carbon Wheels The Lightest Zipp Wheelset on Review erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Part seven of our Sea Otter video coverage wraps up the roundups with an big assortment of standout bikes, clever components, and final takeaways from the show floor. From the eye-catching Sour Pasta Party 32 to low-drag DT Swiss hub internals and fresh gear from brands like Swift Industries, Curious Creatures, SQLab, Ortlieb, and Five Ten, theres plenty to dig intoThe post Video: Fresh Finds at Sea Otter 2026 (Part 7) appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Cyclists across Ireland face a safety crisis, because the majority of respondents to a new report published today by Cycling Ireland now feel the roads are becoming more dangerous. The Cycling Ireland Road Safety Report found 53.1 per cent of respondents experienced a close pass on most of their rides. 51.1 per cent reported a collision or serious near miss within the last year. More than half of respondents believe roads have become more dangerous, with 65.3 per cent rating current infrastructure as poor, very poor" or non-existent. The report surveyed 2,191 cyclists, with 96.5 per cent of respondents classifying themselves as experienced or very experienced. It concluded that 58 per cent of cyclists who classify themselves as very experienced see cycling on their local roads as more dangerous than a year ago. The report said this is significant because the people best positioned to assess road conditions through years of accumulated experience are the ones most concerned. 37 per cent of very experienced cyclists said the level of danger is about the same and 5 per cent said it is safe. Cycling Ireland says a critical factor is that 96.7 per cent of respondents hold a driving license, making them dual road users. The survey also found women who cycle experience road safety differently from men in almost every measure. Female respondents report higher rates of close passes on most rides (58.5 per cent vs 51.9 per cent for men), and feel significantly less safe: 28 per cent of women say roads have become much more dangerous compared to 18.5 per cent of men, the report said. The report also found that only 11 per cent of respondents reported an incident to An Garda Siochana or the PSNI. This represents a massive gap between the lived experience of cyclists and the official record of road safety incidents, Cycling Ireland said. Most people who reported an incident were very dissatisfied" with An Garda Siochana or the PSNI. Cycling Ireland said one of the most common answers respondents gave about reporting an incident was nothing happened or they were told to get a camera. The report includes 13 recommendations, based on the survey data, across four categories: campaigning and lobbying; member engagement; policy and partnerships; and internal capacity, to establish an annual road safety survey. You can read the full report and recommendations here. Ciarn Cannon, president of Cycling Ireland, said: What we are hearing is consistent, widespread, and deeply worrying. These are people who understand the road, most of whom both drive and cycle, and they are telling us clearly that our roads are not safe enough. When more than half have experienced a serious incident in the past year, that is not a marginal issue, it is a systemic one. This is not just about individual incidents, it points to deeper problems in how our roads are designed, how behaviour is managed, and how incidents are reported and addressed. But the report also shows a community that is engaged, constructive, and ready to be part of the solution. The evidence is there. The question now is whether we are prepared to act on it, added Cannon. Tim Farmer, chairperson of the Cycling Ireland Road Safety Commission, said: Although this report paints a stark picture and provides evidence to the dangers we are seeing, especially on close passes and high incident rates. It shows the areas where small changes can make a significant difference. A whole of system approach will make our roads safer for all users, with improved planning and policing we can achieve safer roads. The report follows an ongoing debate in Ireland over cycling safety and proposals to make the use of hi-vis mandatory.

The judge called on the threatening and aggressive motorist, who lifted the cyclists bike before falling on top of him, to consider maybe rage management or at least safe driving, concluding: He seems to have difficulty when hes in a vehicle

Lennart Jasch could barely process what he had just done. On Stage 4 of the Tour of the Alps, the German development rider produced a stunning solo performance to take his first win in professional cycling, holding off the chasers after a long-range move in the mountains. Speaking after the finish,...

Following the release of their axle-mounted rear rack system, the Switch Rack, Restrap from Leeds, UK, has announced a new bag made specifically for its modular attachment system. The Restrap Switch Top bag is said to be an aerodynamic, completely waterproof bag that works seamlessly with the Switch Rack. Read on for more on this new bag below...The post The New Restrap Switch Top Bag Features 15L of Storage appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Zipps revamped hookless carbon 202 NSW wheelset weighs in at a claimed 1,090g (including valves and tapes). That's impressively light for a wheelset that uses standard hubs and J-bend stainless steel spokes. The updated 202 NSW has a new series of carbon specifications, with Zipp claiming it's the most complex rim it has ever built. The rims are 35mm deep with a 23mm internal width. With ceramic bearings as standard and backed by a full lifetime warranty, the 202 NSW is a pure road wheelset optimised for 28-32mm tyres. Read more: Best road bike wheels in 2025 | 31 rim and disc brake wheelsets tried and tested A brief history of the 202 At only 1,090g a pair including valves and tapes, the 202NSW is Zipp's lightest road disc wheelset. Zipp Back when rim brakes ruled the world, Zipps 202 was the Indianapolis-based wheel builder's climbing special. The low-profile rim was at odds with the brand's aero approach, but the low weight found favour with riders and racers of the time. With a weight of 1,375g a pair, the 202 Firecrest was one of the lightest production wheelsets around. The 202 continued into the disc-brake era, but was discontinued in 2018 when Zipp switched to wider, tubeless-specific rim profiles. The previous-generation 202 NSW tipped the scales at 1,460g including tapes and valves. The previous-generation Zipps 202 NSW weighed in at 370g more than the new wheelset. Immediate Media The new 202 NSW not only grows the rim to 35mm (over the previous 32mm), it also lowers the weight significantly to a claimed 1,090g. That's even more impressive considering Zipp has stuck to using J-bend spokes and standard hubs, and continued to use stainless-steel spokes while its competitors have switched to carbon to make weight savings. In comparison, Cadexs Max 40 carbon-spoke wheelset weighs in at 1,249g with a 40mm rim depth. Lightweights Obermayer Evo, with its proprietary carbon construction, weighs 1,230g. Newmens Streem wheels, with carbon spokes and proprietary aero valves, weigh 1,088.3g. The similarly priced Schmolke TLOs come with carbon spokes and, at 977g, are the lightest wheels Ive tested with a generous system weight limit. 202 NSW details The ZR1 SL hubset weighs in at 304g a pair. The ZR1 SL hubset that arrived with the 353 NSW in 2025 is also put to use here. The 304g-a-pair hubs are designed for standard J-bend spokes, here with a spoke count of 20 front and rear. The SL hubs use a GRW ceramic bearing for longevity and light weight. The freehub remains the fast-engaging 66-point design. The wheels use Alpina Hyperlite stainless spokes. I asked Zipps lead design engineer for the 202 project, Ben Waite, why the brand continued with metal spokes when its rivals are using carbon to reduce weight. Waite explained: Weve been testing and evaluating carbon spokes for quite a while, and we can see plenty of advantages with them. We do still have some reservations around the material as a choice for spokes from our testing and research. That and weve found we can achieve our longevity, impact strength, and lightweight goals with steel spokes. The 202 NSW's internal 23mm width is optimised for tyres between 28 and 32mm, like the 404/454 and 808/858. Zipp Its the rim where the biggest leaps in tech are found with the 202 NSW. A new recipe for the carbon mix blends five different types of carbon and a complex layup with more than 50 individual sections per rim. Biomimetic laminate The 202 NSW rim has the most complex construction of any Zipp carbon rim. Zipp Zipp call the new construction Biomimetic laminate. The blend of mixed-modulus carbon puts the stiffest carbon at the spoke bed, and the toughest at the tyre bed. Zipp claims this mimics the function of a tendon, hence the Biomimetic moniker. The outer skin of the rim uses a form of carbon thats both strong and durable to withstand impacts. The inner diameter of the rim uses high-modulus fibres to maintain spoke tension under riding loads. The result is a wheelset with a sub 1,100g weight, yet it still comes with both a lifetime unlimited warranty and a system weight limit of a very generous 115kg/235lb. The 23mm internal width is optimised for tyres between 28mm and 32mm, meaning the 202 NSW joins Zipps 404/454 and 808/858 as a pure road wheelset, alongside the road/all-road/gravel-ready 303 range. Zipps collaboration with Goodyear the 29mm-wide Eagle F1 Z29 Aero tyre looks to be the optimal choice for the 202 NSW, but any TSS (tubeless straight side) compatible road tyre will fit. The 202NSWs come with a maximum pressure rating of 73psi/5.0 BAR, although Zipp says maximum pressure is tyre-width dependent. Zipp 202 NSW pricing The 202 NSW is available in Shimano HG or SRAM XDR freehub options, with the rear wheel priced at 1,875 / $2,300 / 2,100 and the front at 1,520 / $1,900 / 1,700.

UPDATED April 23, 2026 BY Guest Author IN Tour d'Afrique no comments The Day I CrashedAnd Kept RidingBirgit Hermann was a rider on the 2014 Tour dAfrique Cycling Expedition.I was about to turn 33, a Schnappszahl, as we call it in German. Thats one of those numbers that comes with a bit of mischief. The kind that makes slightly questionable decisions feel like a good idea.On paper, my life was already good. Stable job, strong community, a place that felt like home in Aotearoa New Zealand. Nothing was missing. And still, something felt unfinished. Not in a dramatic way, just a quiet sense that I had settled into something that worked but wasnt stretching me anymore.Then one evening, I came across a story about a group of cyclists riding the length of Africa. Twelve thousand kilometres. Heat, dust, long days, basic roadside camps. And something clicked. Instantly, I knew: thats it. It didnt feel sensible, but my gut said I want to try this.Credit: Birgit HermannSo I signed up for the Tour dAfrique, despite never having ridden 100 kilometres in one go. Somewhere in that decision was a simple thought: this is slightly ridiculous but Im doing it anyway. At the time, I had no idea how few people had actually done this. Looking back, its a surprisingly small group, fewer than those who have summited Everest. In hindsight, that might have been useful information. Then again maybe not.The plan was to start in Cairo and ride south but thats not how it played out. Due to political unrest in Egypt, the route changed. We started in Khartoum in Sudan instead and headed north first, straight into the wind. These were the winds that usually push riders south, helping them settle into the rhythm of the ride. That year, we met them head-on. It was a rough way to begin without any easing in. No gentle start, just heat, resistance, and the immediate realization that this was going to be harder than expected.Credit: Birgit HermannWe rode in a loose peloton, rotating through the front, trying to shield each other. It required precision, timing, and experienceall of which we didnt have. A small miscalculation was enough. Our handlebars touched. My balance shifted. And I hit the ground. A crash in week one! The pain came immediately.I got back up quickly, more out of instinct than anything else, but as the day went on, it became clear this wasnt just a bruise. By evening, even the smallest movements were difficult. I needed help taking off my tight sports bra. The pain was excruciating, unlike anything I had felt before, and left no doubt: something was wrong.Credit: Birgit HermannThere were no proper medical facilities nearby. Just a field assessment by the tour medic and a likely diagnosis: broken collarbone.. Which left me with a choice: Stop and get treatment. Or keep riding.The conditions didnt make the decision any easier. The heat in Sudan was relentless. At lunch stops, tyres would literally pop from the pressure of sitting in the sun. Youd hear it across campanother one gone. So instead of us resting in the shade, we dragged our bikes there first. Protect the tyres, protect the rims, protect whatever we could. I had never seen tyres blister before. Out there, in over 40 degrees on long, exposed roads through the Sahara, they did.Credit: Birgit HermannEverything was under pressure. Equipment. Bodies. Focus. And now, my shoulder. That night, lying in my tent, I wasnt thinking about the distance ahead. I was thinking about whether I was done. There was no drama in it. No big internal speech. Just a quiet question: Is this where it ends? No one expected me to continue. No one would have questioned it if I stopped. But I knew I wasnt ready to leave. So the next morning, I got back on the bike.From that point on, the ride changed. Every movement required attention. Every adjustment mattered. I rode differently: more carefully, more consciously, constantly adapting. And mentally, I had to simplify things. Because thinking about the full distance wasnt useful anymore. Whenever we were down to 42 kilometres, Id say, sometimes to myself, sometimes to the riders around me: Hey thats a marathon distance. Thats what other people run. Come on, we can easily cycle that. It became a bit of a ritual. Even when we were completely exhausted, with no shade in sight, and when easy was the last word any of us felt.I also started creating small rewards along the way. One of them was those infamous sports bars we were given. Some South African brand that, in the heat, turned into something closer to a concrete block than anything youd normally call food. Chewing them mid-ride felt like a challenge in itself, but Id save them for certain milestones, telling myself Id earned it once I got there. It didnt make the kilometres shorter, but it made them feel more manageable.Somewhere along the way, the focus shifted. I stopped thinking about finishing and started paying attention to what was right in front of me. The next kilometre. The next decision. When to push. When to ease off. When forcing it made things worse instead of better. It wasnt about riding harder. It was about staying in it.Crossing the finish line in Cape Town months later was emotional, but it didnt feel like the dramatic breakthrough I had imagined at the start line in Khartoum. It felt quieter than that. More like something had settled. The biggest shift wasnt physical. It was in how I approached uncertainty and trusted myself to move forward, even without having everything figured out. What stayed with me was a deep sense that if I set my heart and mind on something, I could achieve far more than I had once believed.The hesitation that used to hold me back didnt disappear, but it lost its authority. I had seen what happens when you keep going anyway, and that changes how you show up long after the ride is over. You dont wait until everything feels aligned or until you feel fully ready. You decide. You take the first step. And then you take the next.Looking back, I thought I had signed up for a bike ride. What I didnt realize was that I was stepping into something that would change how I make decisions, how I deal with discomfort, and how I move through moments where things dont go to plan. Only later did I start to see how much of that carried into other parts of life, and into my work.Credit: Birgit HermannExperiences like this quietly became the foundation for what I would later capture in my leadership framework and book BOLDER. Because the pattern is the same. You dont wait until everything feels aligned or until you feel fully ready. You decide. You take the first step. And then you take the next. Sometimes, thats all it is: One decision. Then another. And eventually, without quite noticing when it happened, youve gone much further than you thought possible.RELATEDTOURTour d'Afrique The trans-African crossing from Cairo to Cape Town has long been one of the worlds epic journeys and an iconic goal for global adventurers. Over... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "The Day I CrashedAnd Kept Riding" Cancel reply