The definition of "road cycling" now also includes gravel and off-road, in addition to traditional roads. At the same time, bikes are evolving to meet the needs of smaller riders. Meeting these two different requirements was the driving force behind the Zipp 303 Firecrest 650b Tubeless Disc Brake wheelset. The smaller rim size provides the necessary space in frames and forks for wider tires starting from 28 mm, which offer more comfort, control, and better cornering. Thanks to the increased tire volume between the rim and the ground, the overall diameter, including the tire, resembles a standard combination of a 700c wheel and road tire. Back on the road, the 650b is a better-fitting wheel for smaller athletes who ride smaller frames. For too long, many smaller cyclists have trained and raced on standard 700c wheels, losing the advantages of a properly fitted wheel, such as improved handling and the elimination of overlap between the front wheel and toes. At the heart of the 303 650b Firecrest Tubeless is a versatile and durable hub set, the ZR1 DB, developed in Germany.