The Zipp 303 XPLR SW is a gravel wheelset designed around the tyre rather than adapted from a road wheel, which is what makes it unusual. It suits gravel racers running 40mm tyres and above who want aerodynamic gain on rough surfaces.

The rim is 32mm internal and 40mm external, which is mountain bike territory and far wider than the 25mm most gravel wheels stop at. That volume lets you run under 30psi without the tyre squirming, and Zipp's argument is that vibration costs more watts than drag on gravel, up to 100W by their own measurements. The 54mm depth was chosen to give the right aspect ratio with a 40mm tyre at race speed. Zipp claims 2W at typical race speeds, rising past 10W above 53kph.

Key features

• 32mm internal and 40mm external rim width, 54mm deep
• UD carbon with ABLC dimpled surface
• Hookless and tubeless, maximum 50psi
• ZR1 Center Lock hubs with 66 points of engagement
• CX-Ray spokes with alloy nipples
• XDR, or SRAM and Shimano driver bodies

Two things to be clear on before you buy. These are hookless and Zipp restricts them to an approved tyre list, so check yours is on it. And the rim is deep, which puts it closer to rock strikes than a shallow gravel wheel. Talk to us about tyre choice and we will make sure it is a combination that works.

Archive stock. Once these are gone they are gone.