Zipp 303 V4 Tubular Wheelset Sram/Shimano

The latest version of the Zipp 303 Tubular wheelset was engineered for the rough roads and rugged weather of the spring classics. But, at 1171grams, it’s lighter than many pure climbing wheelsets. So we weren’t surprised that Cervélo TestTeam’s Heinrich Haussler picked 303s for the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix and then rode them to win a Tour de France mountain stage by more than 4 minutes.

To combine bombproof durability, surefooted handling, and cutting-edge aerodynamics, we widened the 303 rim from 22.3mm to 27.5mm with a slight rim depth increase from 44mm to 45mm. Without adding a gram, these changes substantially improve the already superb impact resistance of Zipp Carbon Bridge technology while offering a more comfortable, forgiving radial stiffness. At the same time, the wider, deeper rim increases the 303 lateral stiffness for sprinting, cornering, and accelerations. Another benefit is that wider tires, like the new 23mm version of Zipp dimpled Tangente tire, have minimal impact on the wheel superior aerodynamics.



Incorporating the knowledge gained from the recent improvements to Zipp workhorse 404 and 808 wheelsets, the 303 radical new shape with ABLC dimples yields 12 seconds of aerodynamic savings over 40km. Yet it maintains stability in crosswinds, even for smaller riders like Olympic triathlon champion Emma Snowsill.



An excellent choice for hilly triathlons and even for mountainous road races, the 303 wheelset tips the scales at just 1182 grams. That only 101 grams heavier than the 202, Zipp lightest wheelset, but the 303 is significantly more aerodynamic than any dedicated climbing wheelset available.



Meanwhile, the 303 tire bed has been redesigned to protect against tire damage and pinch flats at low pressure, and for more precise mounting of tubulars. In poor weather, riders will appreciate the improved brake modulation of the new 303 angled brake track. These upgrades also make the 303 an excellent choice for cyclocross.



The 303 includes Zipp new 88 front and 188 rear hubs that feature oversize 17mm axles, higher flanges, and adjustable bearing preload. Steel skewers, 18 front and 24 rear Sapim CX-Ray spokes, and Swiss steel bearings more precise than many ceramic upgrades complete the package. Along with the rest of Zipp wheel line, the 303 wheelset is handmade in Speedway, Indiana.

Front Wheel

Weight 519g
Rim Used 285v4
Hub Used 88
Spoke Count 18
Spoke Pattern Radial
Spoke Length 258mm
Track Adaptable Yes
Dimpled Surface Yes
Rear Wheel

Weight 652g
Rim Used 285v4
Hub Used 188
Spoke Count 24
Spoke Length Non-Drive 260mm
Spoke Pattern Non-Drive Cross
Spoke Pattern Drive Radial
Spoke Length Drive 246mm
Track Adaptable No
Dimpled Surface Yes