Schmolke TLO Gravel vs Zipp 303 XPLR SW: 162g Lighter Without the Tyre Restrictions
The Schmolke TLO Gravel delivers the low weight, tyre support and premium component package expected from a serious gravel wheel upgrade.
At approximately 1,290g, it is 162g lighter than the Zipp 303 XPLR SW while adding DT Swiss 180 hubs, SINC ceramic bearings and a modern 29mm internal rim designed for 40 to 45mm gravel tyres.
The Schmolke does not rely on one narrow performance claim. It combines low weight, practical tyre compatibility and flagship hubs in one complete gravel wheelset.
The specifications expose the difference
| Specification | Schmolke TLO Gravel | Zipp 303 XPLR SW |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1,290g | 1,452g |
| Rim depth | 27mm | 54mm |
| Internal width | 29mm | 32mm |
| External width | 35mm | 40mm |
| Tyre compatibility | Optimised for 40 to 45mm | Approved 40 to 61mm tyres only |
| Hubs | DT Swiss 180 | Zipp ZR1 |
| Bearings | SINC ceramic | Carbon-steel cartridge |
| Spacing | Standard or Boost | Standard |
| System limit | 120kg | 135kg |
| Price | $4,495 | $3,150 |
Zipp states that its 1,452g figure includes tape and valves. Schmolke does not state whether these are included in its approximately 1,290g figure.
Low weight is only the beginning
The manufacturers’ published figures show a 162g advantage for Schmolke.
The lower weight contributes to a bike that is quicker to accelerate and carries less wheelset mass uphill. But the Schmolke advantage is not limited to the number on the scales.
Quicker response
Less wheelset weight to accelerate when the pace changes.
Less climbing weight
Carry 162g less wheelset up every rise and climb.
Modern tyre support
A 29mm internal rim designed for 40 to 45mm tyres.
Premium hubs
DT Swiss 180 hubs with SINC ceramic bearings.
29mm internal width without Zipp’s tyre restrictions
The Schmolke is no narrow, old-fashioned gravel rim. Its current 29mm internal width supports the tyre shape and volume expected from a modern performance gravel wheelset.
Schmolke specifically optimises the rim for commonly used 40 to 45mm gravel tyres. That covers fast gravel riding, mixed surfaces and rougher off-road routes without requiring a 32mm internal rim or 40mm-wide external profile.
The Zipp is compatible only with tyres on SRAM’s approved list. The tyre must also fall between 40 and 61mm.
29mm internal width optimised for common 40 to 45mm gravel tyres.
32mm internal width restricted to SRAM-approved 40 to 61mm tyres.
Both wheelsets are hookless and require compatible tubeless tyres. Zipp adds another restriction by limiting the wheelset to its approved tyre list.
27mm rims or 54mm rims?
The Zipp rim is twice as deep. Its aerodynamic argument is built around combining that 54mm profile with specific approved gravel tyres.
The Schmolke takes a more direct approach to gravel performance. Its 27mm-deep rim helps create a wheelset that weighs approximately 1,290g while still providing a wide 29mm internal platform for modern gravel tyres.
You receive the Schmolke weight advantage across every climb and acceleration. The Zipp’s aerodynamic claim depends on speed, course conditions and the approved tyre fitted.
DT Swiss 180 hubs change the comparison
| Hub detail | Schmolke | Zipp |
|---|---|---|
| Hub model | DT Swiss 180 | ZR1 |
| Bearings | SINC ceramic | Carbon-steel cartridge |
| Freehub | Ratchet EXP | Six-pawl system |
Schmolke builds the TLO Gravel around DT Swiss’s flagship 180 Center Lock hubs. They combine SINC ceramic bearings with Ratchet EXP internals in a hubset designed for low weight, smooth running and long-term use.
The Zipp uses its ZR1 hub with carbon-steel cartridge bearings. The Schmolke gives you the higher-grade hub package expected from a premium wheelset.
Look at the premium upgrades you get with Schmolke
Approximately 1,290g wheelset weight
DT Swiss 180 flagship hubs
SINC ceramic bearings
29mm internal width for modern gravel tyres
Standard or Boost spacing
German-made carbon rims
Wheelsets built in Schmolke’s Konstanz workshop
The difference goes beyond weight. Schmolke combines a lightweight build with a current 29mm internal rim, flagship hubs and the choice of standard or Boost spacing.
You get the responsive ride, premium components and practical gravel setup expected from a genuine high-end upgrade.
The verdict
The Schmolke TLO Gravel is the better premium gravel upgrade.
It is lighter, uses DT Swiss 180 ceramic hubs and provides a modern 29mm internal rim designed around commonly used 40 to 45mm gravel tyres.
The Zipp asks you to accept 162g more published weight and a restricted approved-tyre system in exchange for an aerodynamic argument built around its 54mm-deep rim.
Schmolke delivers performance you can use across climbing, acceleration, mixed surfaces and demanding gravel riding.
Frequently asked questions
How much lighter is the Schmolke TLO Gravel?
The manufacturers’ published figures put the Schmolke at approximately 1,290g and the Zipp at 1,452g. This shows a 162g advantage for Schmolke, although Zipp includes tape and valves in its figure.
What is the internal width of the Schmolke TLO Gravel?
The current Schmolke TLO Gravel has a 29mm internal width and a 35mm external width.
What tyre widths suit the Schmolke TLO Gravel?
Schmolke optimises the 29mm internal rim for 40 to 45mm gravel tyres. The tyre must be approved by its manufacturer for hookless tubeless rims.
Can the Zipp use any gravel tyre?
No. SRAM states that the 303 XPLR SW is compatible only with approved tyres between 40 and 61mm.
Is the Schmolke available with Boost spacing?
Yes. Schmolke offers standard 12x100mm and 12x142mm spacing or Boost 15x110mm and 12x148mm spacing.
Upgrade the way your gravel bike rides
Move to a 1,290g wheelset with 29mm internal rims and DT Swiss 180 ceramic hubs.
Shop Schmolke TLO Gravel