Zipp 353 NSW and 303 SW wheelsets launched last week. They mark an advance in intelligent wheel design. Both models integrate Zipp’s AXS Wheel Sensor directly into the rim, giving you real‐time tire pressure data—no dangling valve‐stem gizmos required. A quick green light tells you you’re ready to roll; mid‐ride monitoring helps you adapt on the fly. It’s great to see this tech develop. I’ve had a pair of the sensors since they launched a few year ago at Sea Otter.
- 353 NSW Tubeless Disc Brake
- A climbing‐focused, 1,310 g wheelset with a 35–40 mm undulating rim profile for all‐round speed, low crosswind sensitivity, and featherlight weight.
- Revised carbon layup boosts impact strength by over 16 %.
- Ceramic‐bearing ZR1 SL hubs shave 30 g versus the previous generation.
- Optimized for 30 mm tires (Goodyear Fitment Series available).
- 303 SW Tubeless Disc Brake
- At 1,440 g and 40 mm deep, the 303 SW brings “modern classic” versatility across pavement, gravel, and cobbles.
- Rim width and shape inspired by the gravel-ready 303 XPLR deliver high aero efficiency and reduced rolling resistance at lower pressures.
- Nearly 10 % tougher impact strength, stainless‐steel bearings in the ZR1 hubset, and tire compatibility from 30–35 mm.
Both wheelsets feature Zipp’s Sawtooth rim geometry with Hyperfoil nodes and HexFin ABLC dimples for maximized aero gains, plus a lifetime warranty.
Fitment Series Tires: Goodyear × Zipp
Zipp’s Fitment Series collaboration with Goodyear brings two bespoke tubeless tires optimized for specific rim profiles:
- Goodyear Vector R XPLR (40 mm)
- Built for 32 mm hookless rims (like the 303 XPLR), with a 120 TPI casing and R:Shield/M:Wall protection.
- Smooth, fast, and confidence-inspiring over rough roads and debris.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 R Z29 Aero (29 mm)
- Tuned for 23 mm rims (e.g. 404, 454), combining a 180 TPI short-ply casing with Aero Lip tech for ultra-low drag and pinch-flat defense.
- Featherlight (270 g) and race-ready.
Next-Gen Deep-Rim Updates: 454 NSW & 858 NSW
Building on its Total System Efficiency (TSE) philosophy, Zipp also refreshed its deepest, fastest wheels:
- 454 NSW (53–58 mm)
- Undulating Sawtooth shape for the best balance of aero drag and stability.
- Hookless rims for seamless tire interface; 30 g lighter with ceramic‐bearing ZR1 SL hubs.
- 858 NSW (82–85 mm)
- The ultimate triathlon/time-trial weapon, now lighter and more aero thanks to TSE.
- Still optimized for 28 mm tubeless tires to keep your legs fresher for the run.
Hub-Only Option: ZR1 SL
Want to upgrade your own build? Zipp’s new ZR1 SL hubset is now available separately. At just 304 g with ceramic bearings, it delivers 66-point engagement, service-friendly J-bend spokes compatibility, and e-bike friendliness (up to 60 Nm torque).
Zipp 353 NSW & 303 SW Why It Matters
From in-wheel connectivity to rim shapes and tire partnerships, Zipp’s latest lineup isn’t just lighter and faster—it’s smarter. Whether you’re chasing KOMs, racing cobbles, or pinning it in a TT, these integrated systems give you data and durability to stay informed.
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