2023 Zipp 454 NSW Tubeless Disc-Brake

Technology

ImPress

We've employed Zipp's ImPress graphics technology, which prints graphics directly on the wheel, to help allow the dimples to do what they were design to do help control vortex shedding, the rate at which air sheds off the wheel. Managing this is crucial to stability.

SawTooth

SawTooth is the name given to Zipp NSW's patented variable depth 53/58mm rims. Developed utilizing the principles of the emerging science of biomimicry, Zipp engineers began the rigorous aero development process of SawTooth utilizing the wind tunnel, CFD, and real-world testing. The result is a rim shape that takes nature's most elegant design solutions and combines engineering precision to deliver a wheel that performs unlike any made before. This patented new rim shape achieves something conventional aero wheels cannot; it simultaneously reduces both aerodynamic drag and side force for the ultimate in AeroBalance. Sawtooth accomplishes this with a series of patented fin-shaped Hyperfoil nodes along the inner diameter of the rim that work together with our new HexFin ABLC dimples for improved airflow. The result is Zipp's highest performing wheelset ever realized with both aero-drag reduction and reduced side force at all wind yaw angles. This is important because higher wind yaw angles are where bike handling is most affected by the wind.

Hyperfoil

Hyperfoil is the name given to the individual nodes on Zipp NSW variable depth Sawtooth rims. Each of these patented structures features our HexFin ABLC dimples that help to stabilize handling in gusting wind by increasing wind vortex shedding frequency. The higher frequency vortex shedding produced by Sawtooth creates a greater number of smaller, less powerful, yet more predictable vortices leading to greater wheel stability. This added stability translates into greater rider control, thereby saving energy that is typically expended trying to hold a line in gusting wind. The result is a faster, more confident riding experience whether you are laying down power or descending sinuous mountain roads.

HexFin ABLC

HexFin ABLC dimples are the hexagonally shaped depressions found at each Hyperfoil of our Sawtooth shaped NSW rims. The angular shape of each dimple increases boundary layer mixing to help keep airflow attached to the rim for reduced aerodynamic drag and improved stability in crosswinds. To further improve the effectiveness of the hexagonal dimples, they are arranged in fin-shaped clusters made up of variable sized dimples that work in concert with each Hyperfoil of a Sawtooth rim.

Axial Clutch

With Cognition's Axial Clutch technology, we've reduced this drag by disengaging the ratchet mechanism when coasting. With less internal hub drag a rider can pedal less when drafting in a headwind, achieve higher speeds when coasting in an aero tuck, or opt to stop pedaling a moment sooner before entering a corner and bank that wattage for use exiting the corner. Axial Clutch technology also allows riders to maintain speed through corners that don't require braking input, thereby increasing corner exit speeds. Inside the Axial Clutch mechanism we use magnets, rather than steel springs, to move and engage our light weight Metal Injection Molded (MIM) ratchet rings for unmatched reliability and consistent operation. With 36 points of engagement that all interlock simultaneously, there isn't a more secure freehub mechanism on the market.

TSE Technology

Zipp's TSE Technology (Total System Efficiency) was developed by our engineers in the Nest Advanced Development Lab in Indy. This approach to carbon-wheel manufacturing means the 303 Firecrest's precise rim layup results in greater all-around efficiency for greater speed through reduced: Wind resistance, rolling resistance, gravity (weight + durability), vibration losses