Practical test: Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW wheels - already ridden

Peter Nilges

· 31.10.2023

The new Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW wheels cost 2200 euros. That's 1.63 euros per gram.

The top-of-the-range Hitop SW model already comes with the Tyre Wiz tyre pressure sensors as standard. The little helpers weigh ten grams and display the exact pressure in the AXS app.

Our stiffness measurements confirm the good-natured handling behaviour.

3 Images

Photo: Peter Nilges

With the two recently introduced 1Zero Hitop S and SW wheels, the American manufacturer Zipp is breaking new ground. The price is high, but we took a look at what the new wheels can do on the trail.

BIKE has already been able to ride the top version SW extensively and put it through the test lab. When developing the wheels, which are designed for cross-country to light trail use, the focus was on minimising weight. In order to achieve this goal, the new wheels dispense with the distinctive single-walled rim construction of the 3Zero Moto or 101-XPLR wheels and once again rely on a classic hollow chamber. However, with a height of just 21.2 millimetres, the new 1Zero Hitop should also offer noticeable comfort off-road.

With approval for full-suspension bikes with up to 130 millimetres of travel, the € 2200 top version Hitop SW weighs in at 1346 grams. The € 1600 Hitop S should weigh in at 1495 grams with an identical rim but different hubs and spokes. The new top-of-the-line wheelset accelerates excellently and is very responsive. Thanks to the fine ratcheting of the rear hub with 66 engagement points (5.5 degrees), every acceleration is very direct.

In rough sections on the trail, the new wheels are forgiving and keep lateral impacts away from the rider. Our stiffness measurements confirm the good-natured riding behaviour. The lateral stiffness is very low at 36.5 N/mm on the front wheel and 32 N/mm on the rear wheel. By comparison, an extremely stiff wheel such as the Syncros Silverton SL achieves values of around 78 N/mm at the front and 67 N/mm at the rear. For heavy riders, the handling could be a little too spongy.

PLUS

Good-natured, forgiving handling behaviour
light-footed acceleration
Tyre pressure sensor included

MINUS

High price
Driving behaviour may be too spongy for heavy riders
somewhat fiddly installation due to the spring washer under the end caps

Info Zipp 1Zero Hitop: Prices & Weights

Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW

Price Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW: 2200 Euro
Weight Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW: 1346 grams

Zipp 1Zero Hitop S

Price Zipp 1Zero Hitop S: 1600 Euro
Weight Zipp 1Zero Hitop S: 1495 grams

Photo: BIKE-TestabteilungBIKE rating Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW

Conclusion: XCO wheels Zipp 1Zero Hitop SW on test

Thanks to the flat carbon rims, the new Zipp 1Zero Hitop wheels are very comfortable and forgiving. The integrated air pressure sensors can sweeten the price of 2200 euros a little. - Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager

Photo: Georg GrieshaberPeter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager

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