Air pressure control via LED: Zipp presents wheels with integrated tyre pressure sensors

Zipp is expanding its wheel portfolio with two new models and revising existing series. The highlight of the US company's latest product offensive is undoubtedly the integrated SRAM AXS tyre pressure sensors in the new 353 NSW and 303 SW wheels. These use LEDs to indicate whether the tyre pressure is correct before you set off and enable real-time monitoring of the tyre pressure on the bike computer. Previously, this function was performed by external sensors called TyreWiz, which were attached to the valve stem as a small box. The new sensors are now integrated directly into the rims.

Monitoring via LED or on the bike computer

When the wheel is moved, an LED next to the valve lights up. Green means: The air pressure is within the pre-set tolerance range. If the LED flashes red, the tyre must be re-inflated. The sensor recognises when the wheel is turning continuously so that the LED quickly goes out again and does not stay lit for the entire ride. The whole thing can be paired and adjusted using the AXS app. The sensors also communicate with SRAM's own Hammerhead computer or other ANT+-capable devices from Garmin or Wahoo, where the air pressure can be displayed in real time.

353 NSW: Lightweight top model for high demands

The flagship is the 353 NSW, at 1310 grams (manufacturer's specification) it is the lightest wheel in the Zipp range and costs 2900 euros. It has an undulating 35/40 millimetre high rim that is optimised for 30 millimetre wide tyres. The inner width is 25 millimetres. The new ZR1 hub, which has been fitted to several wheels in the portfolio, rolls on ceramic bearings on the top model. Zipp also claims to have increased the impact resistance of the rims by 16 per cent.

303 SW: Versatile all-rounder for road and gravel

The 303 SW is slightly heavier at 1440 grams, but is more versatile and much cheaper at 1900 euros per set. According to Zipp, it is suitable for road, gravel, cobblestones and cyclocross. The 40 millimetre high rim is designed for tyres between 30 and 35 millimetres wide, whereby Zipp promises the best performance with 35 millimetre tyres. Here too, the inner width is 25 millimetres. The ZR1 hub set is fitted with stainless steel bearings.

Both new wheels have a hookless rim profile, which Zipp calls Tubeless Straight Side (TSS). This should enable a seamless transition between tyre and rim and improve aerodynamics. The wide rim profiles in combination with larger tyre volumes and lower pressure should also reduce rider fatigue.

Revised high-profile rims for aerodynamics fans

In addition to the new launches, Zipp has also revised the existing 454 NSW and 858 NSW wheels. The 454 NSW with its characteristic Sawtooth rim shape (53/58 millimetre height) is now 30 grams lighter than the previous model. It weighs 1400 grams and is optimised for 28 millimetre tyres.

The 858 NSW, the most aerodynamic model in the portfolio, has a rim up to 85 millimetres high. This wheel has also been lightened by 30 grams and now weighs 1500 grams as a pair. Zipp recommends tyres from 28 millimetres wide. Both models are equipped with the ZR1 SL hub set and ceramic bearings.

New Goodyear tyres for optimum performance

To match the new wheels, Zipp is presenting two specially developed Goodyear tyres. The Eagle F1 R Z29 Aero is a 29 millimetre wide road bike tyre that has been optimised for the 23 millimetre wide TSS rims from Zipp. It should harmonise particularly well with the 404 and 454 wheels and weighs 270 grams.

The Vector R XPLR is designed for gravel bikes, but the treadless tyre is aimed more at dry, firm ground or use on poor roads. With a width of 40 millimetres and a weight of 440 grams, it is comparatively light for a gravel tyre.

Technical details and prices

All new wheels are available with XDR or Shimano/SRAM freewheels, Campagnolo freewheels are also available. The maximum tyre pressure is 5.0 bar (73 psi) and the permissible system weight is between 114 and 120 kilograms.

The recommended retail prices (RRP) for the wheels range from 1900 euros for the complete set 303 SW to 3900 euros for the high-end version 353 NSW. The Goodyear tyres are available for 90 to 100 euros. All products should be available in stores immediately.