Back when aerodynamic wheels first started showing up on the market, two brands were pushing things: Zipp and HED. Together, Zipp and HED hold or share almost every valuable aerodynamic rim shape patent and this is one big reason we carry both brands. We like brands that are dedicated to being innovative and who are not afraid to push the envelope. While Zipp has garnered more of the spotlight in recent years, HED has been steadily improving their offerings and the Stinger series of wheels is an excellent example of how HED is offering things that few to no other companies are offering at a given price.

There is only 10mm of rim depth and 30 grams of weight difference between the HED Stinger 4 and the HED Stinger 6 - everything else between them is the same. For this reason, we’ll review them simultaneously.

The Stingers, offers HED’s patented full carbon tubular rim shape, tighter tolerances (how round and true the rims are, for example) than the Jet’s and more all at a price that is very competitive with the Flashpoint. The Stinger 60 also weighs 449 grams less than the Flashpoint 60. Almost a full pound! Now HED likely has your attention. While weight is just one of many variables that should be considered when buying a wheel, a pound of weight is a lot of rotating mass and it is hard to lose anything close to this amount of weight in most other areas of the bike. Based on this factor alone, the HED Stinger is worthy of consideration. But wait, there is more…the Stinger also offers a HED's patented toroid rim shape, HED’s oversized cold forged Sonic hubset, Sapim CX Ray bladed spokes in the rear in combination with 6/4 Titanium front spokes, alloy nipples and a solid Pro Tour pedigree (often unlabeled).

So, isn’t the Stinger in closer comparison to wheels like the Zipp 404 and Reynolds SDV 66? No. The Stinger has a lot of features, but while the Sonic hub is a decent hub, it is hard to compare to the dazzling CNC work and tolerances of the Zipp 88/188 combination found on the Zipp 404 or silky smooth and ultra durable DT 240S on the SDV 66. The Stinger also does not offer features like aerodynamic dimpling or a dedicated braking track like what is often found on higher priced wheels. However, when you take into account that the Stinger is built by one of the most experienced aero wheel manufacturers on the market and is around $1500, the overall value of the Stinger is indisputable.

So, which do you choose, the Stinger 4 or the Stinger 6? We sell more of the Stinger 6 as the depth and weight differences are pretty minor. If you are really concerned about side winds though, go with the Stinger 4 as it will catch a little less wind.

Who is it for? The road rider/racer or triathlete looking for race capable performance and versatility in the $1500 range. The Stinger 4 or 6 is a lot of wheel for not a lot of dollars.