The Zipp 303 XPLR SW Disc C.L. Front Wheel 12X100 presented by Escapa is the fastest Gravel wheel, thanks to its wide, deep rim that integrates perfectly with Gravel tires.*
The 303 XPLR SW is a speed-focused gravel wheel designed with a new approach: starting with the ideal gravel tire and designing a wheel around it.
Today’s Gravel wheels are slightly modified versions of current road wheels—very stiff and lightweight. At Zipp, we took a different approach, focusing solely on speed. On gravel, rolling resistance and vibration from rough surfaces—as well as wind—are major obstacles to speed. To combat this, Zipp applied its Total System Efficiency design philosophy specifically to the challenges of gravel riding.
To develop this wheel—the first of its kind—Zipp engineers studied how Gravel racing has changed cycling in recent years, reaching several key conclusions:
1. The increase in speed on gravel highlights the importance of aerodynamic efficiency.
2. The current generation of Gravel wheels has poor aerodynamic efficiency when used with Gravel tires.
3. The key to increasing speed on gravel lies in lower tire pressure, but the current design of Gravel rims provides insufficient tire support to withstand lateral loads when cornering at lower tire pressures.
4. The design of current Gravel rims does not help prevent punctures when tire pressures are lower.
The typical width of tires for gravel racing ranges from 38 to 50 mm, with different tread patterns. Current gravel wheels have an outer rim width of 28–30 mm, which creates an aerodynamic mismatch when using gravel tires wider than 40 mm. Because the rim is narrower and the tire is wider, the interface between the tire and the wheel resembles the bulge of a light bulb more than the ideal cross-section of an aerodynamic profile. According to Zipp’s testing, the wheel-and-tire combination of our 303 XPLR SW design provides a 5-watt aerodynamic advantage over the competition. This wheel is optimized for use with tires and , both designed in collaboration with Zipp.
Lower tire pressure significantly increases speed on gravel. The problem with current Gravel wheels is that, with a narrow Talon and low tire pressure, the tire sags in corners. The wide Talon of the 303 XPLR SW tires increases tire stability, allowing for lower tire pressure without the tires deforming in corners. This results in reduced vibration while maintaining predictable cornering control and uninterrupted traction on climbs. The 303 XPLR SW also helps reduce punctures, as the rim flange is 77% wider than on previous models, which lowers the risk of damage when the tires bottom out against the rim flange upon Impact.
What about rim depth? Conventional wisdom suggests that shallow rims are best suited for Gravel. As Gravel racing has evolved, many Gravel courses are ridden at speeds exceeding 35 km/h (~22 MPH), with top speeds of over 60 km/h (~37 MPH). The 303 XPLR SW rim features a 54 mm profile to create an aerodynamically efficient pairing with large Gravel tires when riding at high speeds. Our studies have shown that a 54 mm rim profile creates an ideal balance between aerodynamic efficiency and 40 mm Gravel tires when riding at race speeds.
And although the 303 XPLR SW is large, it weighs 1,496 g, allowing you to climb quickly in the sections where the group usually splits up.
And finally, the last key element when riding fast on gravel is the rider themselves. You are the true engine propelling you forward at full speed. The 303 XPLR SW tires allow for lower pressures, which will keep you in top condition and reduce muscle fatigue right up to the very end by cushioning you from hours of jarring bumps and impacts. With the 303 XPLR SW, you’ll reach the finish line better prepared than ever to contest the final sprint.
FEATURES
The fastest competition wheel on gravel, featuring a Tubeless, hookless profile.
Ultra-wide internal profile to reduce rolling resistance, capable of pressures below 30 psi (2.1 bar).
The wide, deep profile integrates seamlessly with Gravel tires to increase aerodynamic efficiency.
Features Zipp’s Total System Efficiency for high-performance Gravel riding.
Maximum tire pressure: 50 psi / 3.45 bar. WH-303-XPSW-A1
The ZR1 DB hub was designed in Germany and offers improved sealing, resulting in longer durability and faster response, thanks to its 66 anchor points.
Center Lock disc interface.
The lockring is included with the wheels.
Ships with 12mm front and rear hub caps.
SPECIFICATIONS
Wheel size: 700c
Rim Construction: Carbon – Hookless
ZR1 hub
Inner rim width: 32 mm
Maximum system weight: 130 kg
Maximum tire pressure: 50 PSI / 3.45 bar
* THE 303 XPLR SW IS ONLY COMPATIBLE WITH APPROVED TIRES. THE Goodyear XPLR SLICK AND Goodyear XPLR INTER ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED AND OPTIMIZED FOR THE 303 XPLR SW.
