HED Stinger vs HED Jet

HED has two deep aero wheels.  The Jets and the Stingers.

The Jets use the famous HED C2 23mm rim that is used in the Ardennes.  A carbon fairing is laid over the top of the C2 rim to provide the aero advantage.  The Jets are all clinchers and come in a 46, 54, 60, and 90mm versions.  Also, it comes in a disc, 650, and recumbent version.  The C2 rim gives the Jet great all around capabilities and the aero fairing makes it a solid wheel for triathlon and time trials.  However, in my opinion the success of the Jet can be related back to a wide product line and a great price point.  Some of HED’s sponsored athletes prefer the Jets in certain situations.  Chrissy Wellington and Tony Martin have both had success with the Jets.

Chrissy Wellington riding HED Jets on race day. photo by Slowtwitch.com

The Stingers are a carbon tubular rim.  They come in a 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 90mm versions.  There is also a Stinger Disc.  This is HED’s version of your typical carbon wheelset.  The cool thing about the Stingers is the weight.  HED is known for high quality wheels…mix that with the Stinger 3 at 1183 grams for the set and you’ve got the best secret on race day.  The heaviest Stinger is the 9 at 1692 grams for the set.  That’s a lightweight 90mm wheelset.  Our lead guide and pro triathlete Brendan Halpin uses the Stinger 7 and Stinger Disc.

Brendan Halpin sporting his Stinger 7 front at the Grizzly Triathlon, photo by tomroberstonphoto.com

Bottom line:  Jets are a clincher and a little more affordable, better for all around cycling.  The Stingers are a tubular, and are very light weight, and performance oriented for race day and beyond.