Zipp 303 XPLR SW Front Wheel

Zipp 303 XPLR SW Front Wheel

The Zipp 303 XPLR SW Wheelset is the fastest gravel wheel Zipp has ever created, featuring a wide and deep rim that seamlessly integrates with gravel tyres. Unlike traditional gravel wheels, which are often modified versions of road wheels with a focus on high stiffness and low weight, Zipp's design is centred on speed. To overcome the major barriers to speed in gravel riding, such as rolling resistance, vibration loss from rough surfaces, and wind, Zipp applied its Total System Efficiency design philosophy specifically for gravel.

This wheelset begins with the ideal gravel tyre and designs the wheel around it. Zipp's engineers studied recent changes in gravel racing, leading to several key insights:

• Increasing gravel speeds highlight the importance of aerodynamic efficiency. Current gravel wheels perform poorly aerodynamically with gravel tyres. The 303 XPLR SW, designed as a seamless airfoil cross-section with gravel tyres, provides a 5-watt aerodynamic advantage over leading competitors.
• Low tyre pressures are crucial for unlocking speed on gravel, but current rim designs fail to support lateral cornering loads at low pressures. The 303 XPLR SW’s wide tyre bed increases tyre stance, allowing lower pressures without squirming, decreasing vibration loss while maintaining control in corners and traction while climbing. Additionally, the rim edge is 77% thicker than previous models, reducing pinch flats and potential damage when tyres bottom out.
• Contrary to conventional thinking that shallow rims are best for gravel, the 54mm deep rim of the 303 XPLR SW creates an effective aerodynamic complement for large gravel tyres at high speeds (35kph+). The deep rim provides the perfect aspect ratio for aerodynamic efficiency with a 40mm gravel tyre at race speeds.
• The wheelset is optimised for use with Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter tyres, both designed in partnership with Zipp. Typical tyre widths for gravel racing range from 38-50mm.

The Zipp 303 XPLR SW wheelset represents a revolutionary approach to gravel racing, integrating tyre and wheel design to deliver exceptional speed, comfort, and performance.