General Discussion Triathlon Talk » HED H3 Rss Feed  
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2012-04-02 6:58 PM

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Extreme Veteran
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Northern Illinois
Subject: HED H3
Found an HED H3 for sale $375. Seem to be good condition. Anyone have one? Any advice? Thanks for the input.

Background info: looking for a set of race wheels to go on my p3


2012-04-02 8:20 PM
in reply to: #4125795

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Regular
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Westfield, IN
Subject: RE: HED H3

front or rear? tubie or clincher? The clinchers weigh a ton and I wouldn't bother with a rear H3.

I have a front tubular and it does the job. Make sure you check how true it is before you purchase it because HED has A and B grade wheels. The B will wobble noticeably more.

2012-04-02 8:58 PM
in reply to: #4125795

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Northern Illinois
Subject: RE: HED H3
Front, clincher. Not sure about the A/B.
2012-04-02 10:41 PM
in reply to: #4125795

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Elite
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Subject: RE: HED H3

I have a set of H3s that I absolutely love!!  I've had them about a year and a half now and have not taken them off my bike since I put them on the first time.  I have raced all distances including 2 HIM and IM Louisville with these wheels.  They are a great all around wheelset.

ETA:  They are clinchers and I use the Bontrager R4 Aero tires and latex tubes.



Edited by japarker24 2012-04-02 10:42 PM
2012-04-02 11:03 PM
in reply to: #4125795

Master
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Subject: RE: HED H3

The clinchers weigh a ton

830g is pretty much in line with other race wheels.

2012-04-03 6:49 AM
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Subject: RE: HED H3
The H3 is pretty much indestructible so I wouldn't worry about buying used. Just take a look at the brake surface (so it's not worn out) and give it a quick spin to make sure the bearings are fresh (and greased). It'll be true (you can't true the H3, so you are relying how true it comes from factory, which is never an issue).

It's a bit heavier than the lightest wheels, but not bad.

In terms of aerodynamics, it does really depend on how it interacts with your fork... so basically it'll range from outstanding to just really good. The design does make it a bit sensitive to cross winds though, something to keep in mind if you a lighter/less experienced rider.


2012-04-03 9:32 AM
in reply to: #4126383

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Champion
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Knoxville area
Subject: RE: HED H3

Mostly what Jan says... some things I'd add/change though.

 

It's not necessarily *true.* HED (moreso specialized labeled ones) sold many "B" wheels through ebay that are pretty out of true. (I know, I have one) which can be a PITA when setting up your brakes.

It's on the same level aerodynamically as an older 404 in *most* wind conditions. That's considering you are running a 19mm tire on it of course. Anything bigger and you are giving up quite a bit of speed. Sadly finding 19mm tires is going to just get harder since the H3 is pretty dated technology.

 

Just some things to think about. It's an awesome wheel, I've had a couple and they have all performed great once you get used to it... but IMO these days you can probably do better with a less *finicky* wheel for about the same money. As always, YMMV.

2012-04-03 10:20 AM
in reply to: #4125795

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Northern Illinois
Subject: RE: HED H3
Thanks for all the input. What would be a less finicky wheel for the same price? You mean used I assume? Or new? I'm building a rear wheel at wheelbuilder.com
2012-04-03 10:52 AM
in reply to: #4126915

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Subject: RE: HED H3

runninirish - 2012-04-03 11:20 AM Thanks for all the input. What would be a less finicky wheel for the same price? You mean used I assume? Or new? I'm building a rear wheel at wheelbuilder.com

It shouldn't be hard to find a used 404/Jet6 in that range, or even deeper likely nowadays. The older Zipps of course also like narrower tires, but you could get away with 20-21mm tires on them (and 23's wouldn't be quite as rough as they would be on the H3 if you are set on a 23mm tire for some reason) Personally I ride a JET9 with a 21mm Bonty R4, which is great. 

I'm not sure about FLO's (I actually have no input whatsoever on them) but I think their prices are in that range for a front. I'm sure some others on here know a bit more about that.

 

Again, just my thoughts... Hed3's are good wheels that will serve you well, but I'd look for some Bontrager Aerowings 19mm (a few months ago I bought a couple from back stock and they still had a couple of hundred in stock at their factory so you may still be able to get some.) before I pulled the trigger on them. A 20mm SuSo is an acceptable replacement, but not ideal.

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