Simultaneous presentation of Zipp 303 XPLR wheels, Zipp SL handlebar, and Goodyear XPLR tires for Gravel

The launch concerns the Gravel discipline, with the Zipp 303 XPLR wheels, the Zipp SL handlebar, and Goodyear Inter tires.

Source: press release

Zipp 303 XPLR SW Wheels

With its ultra-wide and deep rim, ideally suited for Gravel tires, the 303 XPLR SW wheel is the fastest Gravel wheel Zipp has ever produced. In fact, current Gravel wheels are slightly modified versions of existing road wheels, focused on stiffness and lightness. Zipp has taken a different approach by focusing exclusively on speed. In Gravel, the main obstacles to speed are rolling resistance, losses due to vibrations on rough surfaces, and wind. To address these, Zipp has applied its Total System Efficiency design philosophy to the challenges of Gravel.

The 303 XPLR SW wheel is a Gravel wheel designed for speed, using a new approach: starting with the ideal Gravel tire and designing a wheel around the tire. To design this unprecedented wheel, Zipp engineers looked at the evolution of Gravel competitions in recent years and came to several key conclusions:

1. The speeds achieved in Gravel continue to increase the importance of aerodynamics.
2. When paired with Gravel tires, current Gravel wheels exhibit poor aerodynamics.
3. In Gravel, reduced tire pressure is key to promoting speed, but current Gravel rims do not offer sufficient support to allow tires to handle lateral loads in corners.
4. Despite the reduced pressure required in tires, current Gravel rims do not promote protection against pinch flats.

In Gravel, race tires typically have widths of 38 to 50 mm and varied tread patterns. Current Gravel wheels have an external rim width of 28 to 30 mm, which creates an aerodynamic imbalance with 40 mm and wider tires. With a narrow rim and a wide tire, the cross-section of the system looks more like a light bulb than the ideal aerodynamic profile. According to Zipp’s tests, the efficiency offered by combining the 303 XPLR SW wheel with a suitable Gravel tire provides an aerodynamic advantage of 5 watts compared to the market leader. This wheel is optimized for use with Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter tires, both developed in partnership with Zipp.

On Gravel, speed is favored by reduced tire pressure. The problem with current Gravel wheels lies in their narrow bead seat, which causes the tire, inflated at low pressure, to collapse in corners. The widened bead seat of the 303 XPLR SW wheel increases the tire’s seating to prevent it from collapsing under load in corners, even at low pressure. This still allows for reduced vibration losses while promoting control and predictability in corners, and grip on climbs. The 303 XPLR SW wheel also helps to limit the risk of pinch flats thanks to the sidewall being 77% thicker than previous models. This reduces the risk of damage when the tire compresses against the sidewall during significant impacts.

But what about rim depth? It is generally perceived that shallower rims are better suited for Gravel. With the evolution of competition, many courses are ridden at average speeds of 35 km/h or more, with peaks over 60 km/h. The rim of the 303 XPLR SW wheel has a depth of 54 mm to create additional aerodynamics at high speeds with wide Gravel tires. Internal research has shown that at racing speeds, the combination of a 54 mm rim depth with a 40 mm Gravel tire offers the ideal ratio for aerodynamics.
And as a bonus, despite its dimensions, the 303 XPLR SW wheel maintains a featherlight weight of 1496 g to promote speed on climbs, where performance matters.

Finally, in Gravel as elsewhere, the last essential component for speed is none other than the cyclist themselves. You are the propulsion. The reduced tire pressure associated with the 303 XPLR SW wheels will prevent muscle fatigue by isolating vibrations and other jolts, allowing you to tackle the last part of the race in the best possible conditions. With the 303 XPLR SW wheel, obstacles are flown over to arrive fresher.

Note that the 303 XPLR SW wheel is only compatible with approved tires. Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter tires have been specifically designed and optimized for the 303 XPLR SW wheel.

Specifications
Wheel size: 700C
Rim construction: carbon – Hookless
Hub: ZR1
Internal rim width: 32 mm
Max system weight: 130 kg
Max inflation pressure: 3.45 bars/50 PSI
Weight: 1496 g

Features
The fastest competition wheel for Gravel, with a tubeless and hookless profile
Ultra-wide internal profile for reduced rolling resistance, ability to ride at pressures below 2.1 bars (30 PSI)
Wide and deep profile, for ideal integration and optimal aerodynamics with Gravel tires
Applies Zipp’s Total System Efficiency concept to high performance on Gravel
The German-designed ZR1 DB hub features a new seal for improved durability and 66 points of engagement for better responsiveness
Center Lock interface with the brake rotor. Wheels delivered with the lock ring
XDR or SRAM/Shimano freehub body
Campagnolo 3W freehub body sold separately
Wheels delivered with 12 mm end caps front and rear
Lifetime warranty

Zipp 303 XPLR S Wheels

The Zipp 303 XPLR S wheel is an excellent, affordable upgrade for Gravel riders seeking speed. This wheel borrows key innovations from our high-end wheel to offer opportunistic cyclists a robust, value-priced solution. Its ultra-wide rim ideally adapts to approved Gravel tires to promote maximum speed on gravel.

This wheel is optimized for use with Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter tires, both developed in partnership with Zipp.

The widened bead seat of the 303 XPLR S wheel increases the tire’s seating to prevent it from collapsing under load in corners, even at low pressure. This still allows for reduced vibration losses while promoting control and predictability in corners, and grip on climbs. It also helps to limit the risk of pinch flats thanks to the sidewall being 77% thicker than previous models. This reduces the risk of damage when the tire compresses against the sidewall during significant impacts.

Note that the 303 XPLR S wheel is only compatible with approved tires. Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter tires have been specifically designed and optimized for the 303 XPLR S wheel.

Specifications
Wheel size: 700C
Rim construction: carbon – Hookless
Hub: 76 / 176
Internal rim width: 32 mm
Max system weight: 130 kg
Max inflation pressure: 3.45 bars/50 PSI
Weight: 1610 g

Features
Fast and robust Gravel wheel, with tubeless and hookless profile
Ultra-wide internal profile for reduced rolling resistance, ability to ride at pressures below 2.1 bars (30 PSI)
Wide and deep profile, for ideal integration and optimal aerodynamics with Gravel tires
Applies Zipp’s Total System Efficiency concept to high performance on Gravel
76/176 DB hubs with Center Lock interface. XDR or SRAM/Shimano freehub body
Center Lock interface with the brake rotor. Wheels delivered with the lock ring
XDR or SRAM/Shimano freehub body
Campagnolo 3W freehub body sold separately
Wheels delivered with 12 mm end caps front and rear
Lifetime warranty

Zipp SL 70 XPLR Handlebar

The Zipp SL 70 XPLR handlebar is a high-end carbon Gravel handlebar, suitable for all terrains and designed to pair with the SRAM RED AXS groupset. Specifically designed for Gravel and trails, this carbon handlebar connects to the bike by offering exceptional performance both functionally and ergonomically. The handlebar notably features a forward sweep to cover the brake hose at its exit from the hood, and to provide a platform that conforms to the brake lever and constitutes an ideal resting point for riding with hands on the hoods. The Service Course SL 70 XPLR handlebar helps you ride faster by positioning you, starting with your hands, in an optimal comfort position for long rides on rough terrain. Today, Gravel riders seek reliability, comfort, control, and the ability to carry their gear. The handlebar features a shallow drop and flared grips, to promote efficiency and comfort over long distances. The SL 70 XPLR handlebar also has markings on the top and bottom of the handlebar to simplify the positioning of SRAM’s wireless Blips satellite buttons. One might almost venture to say that all roads lead to the Zipp SL 70 XPLR handlebar.

Specifications
Material: carbon
Clamp diameter: 31.8 mm
Reach / Drop: 70 mm / 115 mm
Widths: 40 cm, 42 cm, 44 cm, 46 cm, 48 cm
Weight: 240 g (44 cm)

Features
High-end unidirectional carbon handlebar for Gravel and trails
Designed for integration with the SRAM RED AXS groupset
Defined markings for positioning SRAM AXS wireless Blips satellite buttons
Concealed external routing of hydraulic brake hoses to the stem
70 mm reach and 115 mm drop, for a comfortable position on the hoods as well as in the drops
5° flare and 11° sweep of the curve, for a position approximately 6 cm wider in the drops than at the hoods
240 g for the 44 cm handlebar
Matte black finish
Lifetime warranty

Goodyear XPLR Inter Tires

The Goodyear XPLR Inter tire is part of a revolutionary wheel and tire system in the world of Gravel. This versatile tire pairs with Zipp’s ultra-wide 303 XPLR S and SW wheels to offer a fast wheel/tire combination on all terrains encountered in Gravel. Suitable for dry and mixed terrains.

Current wheel systems for Gravel are essentially robust versions of lightweight, stiff, narrow, and aerodynamic systems designed for road. The problem is that Gravel riding subjects the arms to painful vibrations that slow you down and, eventually, increase fatigue. Furthermore, Gravel tires often negate the aerodynamic advantages of traditionally narrow road rims.

The new XPLR wheel/tire system takes a radically new approach and optimizes component dimensions to achieve the fastest configuration on the market. In addition to unparalleled aerodynamic benefits for Gravel, the resulting rim width also allows for reduced tire pressure, which helps eliminate vibrations to save energy.

Paired with the 303 XPLR wheel, the XPLR Inter tire offers the greatest versatility for Gravel and is suitable for most situations. Its tighter tread in the middle provides a fast rolling surface, while wider knobs on the sides ensure grip and confidence in corners. The supple and lightweight construction improves ride quality. The M:Wall sidewall reinforcements add a layer of protection against cuts or pinch flats, allowing you to ride at the lowest possible pressure. Finally, the bead dimension has been determined to ensure convenient assembly and a secure fit on Zipp TSS rims. Only approved tires can be used on XPLR wheels.

Specifications
Tire size: 700×45
Tire type: Tubeless Complete
Optimized for 303 XPLR
Bead type: folding

Features
Lightweight casing, for a smoother ride
M:Wall protection, to reduce the risk of cuts or pinch flats
Geometry and construction optimized for the Zipp 303 XPLR wheel; tread designed for versatility, suitable for most Gravel terrains and all conditions
Dynamic:UHP compound to promote grip and reduce rolling resistance
Tubeless Complete design and Dual Angle beads to ensure a secure fit with XPLR rims
Designed to measure 45 mm on a 32 mm Zipp TSS rim
XPLR Inter: 525 g

Goodyear XPLR Slick Tires

The Goodyear XPLR Slick tire is part of a revolutionary wheel and tire system in the world of Gravel. This semi-slick Gravel race tire pairs with the unique Zipp 303 XPLR SW and S wheels to offer the fastest wheel/tire combination on smooth and moderate Gravel terrains. Its best performance is revealed on dry terrains. The Slick tire is designed to measure 40 mm on the 303 XPLR wheel.

The XPLR Slick tire offers the best aerodynamics with the 303 XPLR SW and S wheels, and is ideally suited for racing on smooth and dry Gravel terrain. Its smooth tread promotes speed, while textured shoulders provide more confidence in corners. Only approved tires can be used on XPLR wheels.

Specifications
Tire size: 700×40
Tire type: Tubeless Complete
Optimized for 303 XPLR
Bead type: folding

Features
Lightweight casing, for more suppleness in the saddle
M:Wall protection, to reduce the risk of cuts or pinch flats
Geometry and construction optimized to offer unparalleled aerodynamic performance with the Zipp 303 XPLR wheel. Tread designed for speed on smooth and dry Gravel terrains
Dynamic:UHP compound to promote grip and reduce rolling resistance
Tubeless Complete and Dual Angle beads for a secure fit on XPLR rims
Designed to measure 40 mm on a 32 mm Zipp TSS rim
XPLR Slick: 455 g

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