Product News: With the WH-R9370 series, Shimano introduces a completely redesigned generation of its Dura-Ace wheels. The new portfolio ranges from the lightweight C36 climbing wheelset to the versatile C50 and C60 models, and includes a special combination of a 99mm deep front wheel and disc wheel for time trials and triathlons. Compared to the previous WH-R9270 generation, the new wheels are said to be not only lighter but also more aerodynamic and stiffer. Shimano retains its adjustable cup-and-cone bearing system, but further develops it with replaceable bearing cups and improved sealing. The market launch of the individual WH-R9370 models is scheduled for September 2026.
Complete system instead of isolated individual components
Shimano has aligned the development of its new Dura-Ace wheels with its "Science of Speed" philosophy. The focus here is not solely on optimizing individual components. Rather, the rim, spokes, and hub were considered as a cohesive system. The goal was to collaboratively improve weight, aerodynamics, lateral stiffness, handling, and ease of maintenance. Therefore, the individual wheel models differ not only in their rim depth. The rim profiles, spoke types, spoke counts, and external widths have also been tailored to their respective applications.
While the C36, C50, and C60 are offered as complete wheelsets, the C99 is a dedicated front wheel. This, together with the new Dura-Ace disc wheel, is intended to form an aerodynamically optimized configuration for time trials and triathlons.
Shimano Dura-Ace wheels – Up to 220 grams less per wheelset
One of the most noticeable changes concerns the weight. Depending on the model, Shimano has reduced the mass by up to 220 grams per wheelset compared to the previous generation.
According to the manufacturer, the C36 weighs less than 1.350 grams, dropping to 1.170 grams. This represents a weight saving of 180 grams. The C50's weight is reduced from 1.461 to 1.302 grams, a reduction of 159 grams. The greatest absolute saving is achieved with the C60: instead of the previous 1.609 grams, the new wheelset is said to weigh only 1.389 grams. This corresponds to a reduction of 220 grams.
Weight comparison to the previous generation
| Model | WH-R9270 | WH-R9370 | saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| C36 | 1.350 gr | 1.170 gr | 180 gr |
| C50 | 1.461 gr | 1.302 gr | 159 gr |
| C60 | 1.609 gr | 1.389 gr | 220 gr |
According to Shimano, the weight reduction is made possible by a completely redesigned frame. This includes new carbon spokes, revised laminate structures for the rims, and a coordinated design of the rim, hub, and spoke system. The reduced rotating weight should be particularly noticeable on steep climbs and during frequent changes in speed, resulting in more direct acceleration. At the same time, the manufacturer emphasizes that the weight reduction should not compromise stability, durability, or controllable handling.
The new Shimano Dura-Ace wheels – designed for tires 28 to 30 millimeters wide
With this new generation, Shimano is also responding to the trend towards wider road bike tires. The WH-R9370 wheels were primarily designed for tires with nominal widths of 28 to 30 millimeters. All three standard wheelsets have an internal rim width of 23 millimeters. This is intended to result in an optimal tire profile that considers rolling resistance, cornering stability, and aerodynamic airflow.
Shimano also uses different rim profiles for the front and rear wheels. The reason for this is that both wheels are exposed to different airflow conditions during riding. The front wheel is subjected to a relatively direct airflow, which significantly influences its susceptibility to crosswinds. The rear wheel, on the other hand, operates within the airflow created by the rider, frame, and components. Accordingly, the outer widths of the front and rear wheels also differ between the C50 and C60 models. This is intended to achieve a balanced ratio between low air resistance, tire integration, and controllable behavior in changing wind angles.
Shimano Dura-Ace wheels – Up to 2,7 watts less air resistance
In controlled tests at a speed of 48 km/h and with 30C tires, Shimano claims to have determined a reduction in aerodynamic drag of up to 2,7 watts compared to the previous generation of Dura-Ace wheels.
The aforementioned advantage, however, depends on several factors. These include the specific wheel model, the tire used, its actual width on the rim, the tire pressure, the angle of attack, and the wheel's position within the overall system of bicycle and rider. Shimano initially developed the rims using computer-aided flow simulations. Subsequently, the profiles were tested under controlled aerodynamic conditions. According to the manufacturer, the focus was not solely on ideal frontal angles of attack. Real-world oblique airflow and varying crosswind conditions were also incorporated into the development process.
The combination of lower weight and reduced aerodynamic losses should offer advantages, particularly during repeated accelerations, high race paces, and long climbs. However, the extent of these advantages in practice will likely depend heavily on the track profile and individual usage.
Shimano Dura-Ace wheels – carbon spokes in two versions
A key technical innovation of the WH-R9370 series is the carbon spokes developed by Shimano. They are used in two different profiles. The so-called Aero spoke measures 4,0 × 1,1 millimeters. The flatter Super Aero version has dimensions of 5,2 × 0,8 millimeters. The wider and thinner shape is intended to offer aerodynamic advantages, especially at high speeds.
The type and number of spokes used depend on the specific wheel. Shimano tailors the configuration to the intended use. The C36 prioritizes low weight and agile acceleration. The C50 is designed to cover the broadest possible range of applications, while the C60 is more focused on high speeds, sprints, and flat racecourses. The 99-millimeter deep time trial front wheel uses 16 Super Aero carbon spokes. The low spoke count and particularly shallow profile are intended to minimize drag at consistently high speeds. According to the manufacturer, stiffness, aerodynamic properties, and vertical compliance were not developed independently. Instead, each wheel is given a deliberately defined character.
Advanced cone bearing system
Shimano remains true to its adjustable cup-and-cone bearing system. Unlike many hubs with sealed industrial bearings, the bearing play can be precisely adjusted. According to Shimano, one advantage of the system is that the bearings can be tuned to the specific bicycle while the hub is mounted. The clamping force applied by the thru-axle can influence the bearing play and the hub's running characteristics. This adjustability allows the rotational torque to be fine-tuned so that the wheel runs as freely as possible under real-world load.
At the same time, Shimano is further developing the system in one key aspect: the bearing cups are now replaceable. This allows the hub to be repaired in the long term when worn, without necessarily having to replace the entire hub or wheel. In addition, there is improved water sealing and measures to increase long-term durability.
Shimano reports 30 percent lower rotational torque
To assess bearing friction, Shimano conducted a comparison between a hub with typical industrial bearings and its new cup-and-cone bearing system. Both designs were subjected to identical loads. The vertical load was 500 Newtons, simulating the weight of the rider and bicycle. An additional 200 Newtons of axial force were applied as a result of pedaling, along with a clamping force of 5.000 Newtons from the thru-axle. Under these conditions, Shimano reported that the new cup-and-cone bearing system exhibited a 30 percent lower rotational torque than the tested setup with industrial bearings. Since Shimano does not provide complete details regarding the specific bearing used for comparison, the measurement methodology, or the absolute friction values, the result should primarily be understood as an internal manufacturer comparison. However, it demonstrates the importance Shimano places on adjustability and bearing performance under realistic loads.
Dura-Ace WH-R9370-C36-TL: Lightweight construction for mountainous routes
The C36 is the lightest wheelset in the new series. With a stated set weight of 1.170 grams, it is aimed particularly at riders who prefer the lowest possible weight and direct acceleration on hilly routes. The internal rim width is 23 millimeters. The external width is 29,4 millimeters for both the front and rear wheels. Shimano uses 18 aero carbon spokes at the front and 21 at the rear. Thanks to its relatively shallow rim depth and low weight, the C36 is designed to excel on long climbs, frequent changes in pace, and technically demanding mountain stages.
Technical specifications C36
- Weight: 1.170 g per wheelset
- Inner rim width: 23 mm
- Front outer width: 29,4 mm
- Rear outer width: 29,4 mm
- Front spokes: 18 aero carbon spokes
- Rear spokes: 21 aero carbon spokes
Dura-Ace WH-R9370-C50-TL: All-rounder for different racing profiles
Shimano positions the C50 as the most versatile wheelset in its series. Weighing in at 1.302 grams, it combines a low mass for a high-profile wheelset with a more aerodynamically optimized rim shape. The front rim has an external width of 31,0 millimeters, while the rear measures 32,0 millimeters. Both wheels are built with 21 aero carbon spokes. This setup is designed to offer the broadest possible range of uses. The C50 is therefore conceptually well-suited for undulating classics, fast circuits, hill climbs with extended flat sections, and variable conditions where neither pure lightweight construction nor maximum aerodynamics alone are the deciding factors.
Technical specifications C50
- Weight: 1.302 g per wheelset
- Inner rim width: 23 mm
- Front outer width: 31,0 mm
- Rear outer width: 32,0 mm
- Front spokes: 21 aero carbon spokes
- Rear spokes: 21 aero carbon spokes
Dura-Ace WH-R9370-C60-TL: High stiffness for speed and sprinting
With the C60, Shimano is primarily targeting riders who seek pronounced aerodynamic support and high lateral stiffness at high speeds. According to the manufacturer, the wheelset weighs 1.389 grams, making it 220 grams lighter than its predecessor. The external width is 31,5 millimeters at the front and 32,3 millimeters at the rear. The front wheel uses 21 aero carbon spokes. The rear wheel has 24 spokes to accommodate the higher drive forces and stresses during sprints. Shimano sees its preferred use on flat stages, in breakaway groups, in fast road races, and in sprint-oriented competitions. Compared to the C50, the design is more specialized: The C60 prioritizes high speed and lateral stability over a neutral all-around performance.
Technical specifications C60
- Weight: 1.389 g per wheelset
- Inner rim width: 23 mm
- Front outer width: 31,5 mm
- Rear outer width: 32,3 mm
- Front spokes: 21 aero carbon spokes
- Rear spokes: 24 aero carbon spokes
Dura-Ace WH-R9370-C99-TL-F: 99 millimeters for time trials and triathlons
The C99 is a specialized front wheel for time trial and triathlon bikes. Its rim has a depth of 99 millimeters and an external width of 35,2 millimeters. Shimano uses 16 Super Aero carbon spokes. The total weight of the front wheel is listed at 792 grams. The deep rim is designed to reduce air resistance at a constant race pace. At the same time, a 99-millimeter deep front wheel places high demands on handling in crosswinds. Shimano therefore emphasizes that, in addition to pure air resistance, the behavior in realistic crosswinds was also taken into account. The C99 is not designed as a classic all-round wheelset. It is aimed at riders who maintain high speeds for extended periods in time trials or triathlon competitions.
Technical specifications C99
- Rim height: 99 mm
- Weight: 792 g
- Outside width: 35,2 mm
- Spokes: 16 Super Aero Carbon spokes
- Area of use: Time trial and triathlon
Dura-Ace WH-R9370-D-TL-R: Disc wheel for maximum aerodynamics
The C99 is complemented by the new Dura-Ace rear wheel with a full disc design. The WH-R9370-D-TL-R weighs 987 grams according to the manufacturer. Its profile was developed using extensive simulations and is designed to minimize drag at the rear wheel. Together, the C99 front wheel and the disc wheel form Shimano's fastest wheel configuration for solo time trials. The closed design maximizes the aerodynamically effective surface area but also brings with it the limitations typical of disc wheels. Depending on the race regulations, course, and wind conditions, its use may be limited or less advantageous.
Technical data disc wheel
- Design: Solid disc rear wheel
- Weight: 987 g
- Optimization: computer-aided aerodynamic simulation
- Area of use: Time trial and triathlon
- Intended combination: C99 front wheel
Development with WorldTour professionals and triathletes
The new Shimano Dura-Ace wheels were developed in collaboration with professional road cyclists and triathletes. Shimano cites riders from the Alpecin-Premier Tech Cycling Team and the Fenix-Premier Tech Cycling Team as examples. According to the company, Mathieu van der Poel and British triathlete Kat Matthews were also involved in the development and validation process.
The feedback from athletes regarding the Shimano Dura-Ace wheels was incorporated, in particular, into the tuning of acceleration, stability during sprints, and controllability in crosswinds. Furthermore, the feedback influenced the spoke configuration, rim profiles, and the desired system stiffness. While the involvement of professionals does not replace independent comparative testing, it allows for fine-tuning under high loads and at race-typical speeds.
Shimano Dura-Ace wheels – prices and availability
The new Shimano Dura-Ace wheels are scheduled to be launched in September 2026. Exact availability may vary depending on the region and model. Retail prices have not yet been announced.