wheels... what is this all about???

The nice thing about looking into buying a brand new tri bike is that you learn a lot about gear and accessories, especially when you are not a gear freak (or geek). I am a user of bikes, shoes, wheels, computers, cars etc. Most of the time I cannot be bothered spending the time to compare dozens of products, models and variations just to either save $100 or 100 grams.
Everybody knows ZIPP wheels. Well, I was told that the rims are wicked but that there are issues at times with spokes. The hubs are also not top end as would make the price of the wheels make you expect. I talked about ZIPP wheels with a few guys in bike stores, and their feedback is very similar. hmmm, what other wheels are there? Oh yes, I remember, I have a set of Cole wheels from a friend (borrowed as long as he does not pick them up!) and I know of Mavic, Reynolds, Easton, Fulcrum, Shimano... etc. There are also tubular and clincher. I have decided on that one: clinchers for me! Yes, you can ride tubulars at a higher pressure but they are a pain with the glue etc. It's not like you need 150psi... your butt is going to be sore anyway...
Long story short: I have 2 wicked offers on 2 different bikes with different wheelsets:
Option 1: 2010 Argon 18 E-112 with ZIPP 404 (front)/ 808 (rear)

Option 2: 2011 Specialized Transition Pro with Mavic Cosmic Carbone SR clincher

At first glance the Argon looks quite sexy. The Transition looks somewhat odd and sluggish... on the picture. I have looked at both bikes in store. I have come to like the Transition much more, especially when you look at its sleek profile from the front. I also like the internal cable routing and the carbon cranks.
The Argon E-112 is one of the stiffest bikes out there, but it comes supposedly with a weight penalty. Not sure how important that really is. It might be a factor in a hilly race... Desert Half Ironman comes to mind.


The Mavics look really sharp and are basically the same weight as the ZIPP404/ 808 but apparently their spoke technology and hub is superior. They look sharp ... and fast.

I will have to sleep over the whole thing. I do not want to rush a decision because there is some cash involved. I am glad I am going through this exercise because I have learned a lot about tri bikes, fit and wheels.
I should go running, the sun is shining, no excuse...