Zipp 303 Firecrest Carbon Clincher Front Wheel 2012 Beyond Black

Zipp 303 Firecrest Carbon Clincher Front Wheel 2012 Beyond Black

The stealthy Beyond Black version features black anodized hubs, black spokes, and black decals.

In the past two years, the 303 has emerged as one of the most formidable wheels in the Pro Peloton, with wins in the Tour de France, Paris-Roubaix, the Tour of Flanders, and more. Its speed, light weight, and utter reliability have been proven in pro cycling's most demanding races.

The 303 has been completely redesigned with Firecrest shaping. The Carbon Clincher preserves the aerodynamic advantages of its tubular brother, while adding the convenience of a clincher tire. And at just 1498 grams, it's light enough to climb up the steepest gradients with ease.

All of the hallmark characteristics of the 303 have improved with the Firecrest Carbon Clincher. The Firecrest shaping optimizes the aerodynamic profile of both the front half and the back half of the wheel. In addition, Firecrest moves the center of pressure of the wheel backwards, giving the 45mm-deep rim the crosswind stability a box-section rim. At the same time, the 26.2mm-wide brake track allows the clincher tire to take on a wider, more stable shape without compromising rolling resistance. It's faster, simpler, and more stable. Or as technical director Josh Poertner puts it, Firecrest is “lightning in a bottle.”

The new wheels retain all the small details that make Zipp wheels what they are. Exposed spoke nipples sit in the aerodynamic shadow of the rims, keeping serviceability simple without compromising speed. And our signature ABLC™ rim dimples squeeze every last second of performance possible. To complete the package, Zipp has refined its venerable 88/188 hubset, reshaping the hub body, canting the non-drive side flange by 8 degrees and moving the bearing out by 7.5mm to increase overall stiffness and strength.

Front Wheel Specification:

• Tyre Bead Inside to Inside: 16.25mm
• Brake Track Top: 23.34mm
• Brake Track Bottom: 28mm
• Recommended Tire Width: 23-32mm
• Max recommended rider weight: 225lbs
• Weight: 680g
• Rim Used: x45
• Hub Used: 88
• Rim Depth: 45mm
• Aero Width: 28.50mm
• Spoke Count: 18
• Spoke Pattern: Radial
• Spoke Length: 258mm
• Max Tire Pressure: 125psi
• Track Adaptable: Yes
• Dimpled Surface: Yes
• Ceramic Bearing: After-market
• External Nipples: Yes

Note: The wheel does not come with brake pads.