Shimano Unveils an All-New Line of Dura-Ace Wheels

Lighter, faster, and more aerodynamic, the new Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheels mark a major advancement for road racing, time trials, and triathlons. Developed in collaboration with WorldTour riders and professional triathletes, they promise measurable gains in weight, efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

Source: Press Release

After several years without major updates to its high-end wheels, Shimano is thoroughly revamping its Dura-Ace lineup. Dubbed WH-R9370, this new family includes five models: C36, C50, C60, C99 (a front wheel specifically designed for time trials), and a solid rear wheel. The goal is to offer a completely redesigned platform to meet the demands of the modern bicycle, where wider tires, aerodynamics, and efficiency play a decisive role.

A Dramatic Weight Reduction

The first announced benefit concerns weight. According to Shimano, the new wheels save up to 218 g per pair compared to the previous Dura-Ace R9270 models.

This weight reduction is made possible by a comprehensive redesign that combines reworked carbon rims, new carbon spokes, and a complete optimization of the hubs and wheel architecture.

Shimano promises sharper accelerations and more responsive handling on climbs, while maintaining the stiffness and stability required for competitive use.

Designed for 28–30 mm tires

The new generation of wheels was developed around the tire sizes now favored by the professional peloton. All wheels feature an internal width of 23 mm, designed to optimize tire shape, improve efficiency, and enhance stability.

The front and rear rim profiles have been specifically engineered based on their height to achieve the best balance between aerodynamic efficiency and stability in crosswinds. The outer width ranges from 29 to 32 mm, depending on the rim height. According to Shimano, tests conducted at 48 km/h with 30-mm tires show a gain of up to 2.7 watts compared to the previous generation.

The profiles were developed using numerical simulations and then validated through extensive aerodynamic testing to ensure effective performance under realistic wind conditions.

New carbon spokes

One of the main new features of this line is the introduction of all-carbon spokes. Shimano offers two distinct profiles: Aero spokes measuring 4.0 × 1.1 mm and Super Aero spokes measuring 5.2 × 0.8 mm (for the C99 front wheel).

Each model features a specific number of spokes and a unique configuration to meet its intended purpose: lightweight for mountain riding, versatility, or maximum stiffness for sprints and fast courses. Thus, the C36 features 18 spokes on the front and 21 on the rear, while the C50 and C60 use 21 spokes on both wheels.

The entire wheel has been designed as an integrated system where stiffness, aerodynamics, and comfort are developed simultaneously.

Hubs still feature cone-and-cup bearings

While most competitors now use cartridge bearings, Shimano remains faithful to its cone-and-cup technology, which is part of the brand’s DNA. However, the system has evolved with several improvements that promise better sealing, easier maintenance, and a longer service life, with replaceable cups. According to Shimano, this design allows for optimized torque adjustment once the wheel is mounted on the bike.

In internal tests comparing a cartridge hub with the new cone-and-cup system, Shimano reports a rotational torque that is approximately 30% lower, resulting in smoother rotation and reduced mechanical losses.

The cassette body remains identical to that of the previous line, designed specifically for Shimano 12-speed cassettes. There are no plans for compatibility with SRAM or Campagnolo cassette bodies.

Five models for every need

WH-R9370-C36: Wheels for climbing

Weighing just 1,172 g per pair (178 g less than the previous model), the C36s are the lightest wheels in the lineup. They are designed for mountainous terrain and riders seeking maximum responsiveness.

WH-R9370-C50: The Versatile Wheels

Weighing 1,302 g (159 g less than the previous version), the C50s are billed as the most versatile wheels in the new lineup. They are designed to offer the best balance between weight, stiffness, and aerodynamics for most types of terrain.

WH-R9370-C60: The Sprinters’ Wheels

Weighing 1,391 g (218 g less than the previous version), the C60 is designed for fast-paced routes, breakaways, and bunch sprints where lateral stiffness is crucial.

WH-R9370-C99: Designed for Time Trials

With a rim height of 99 mm, Super Aero spokes, and a claimed weight of 788 g, this front wheel is designed exclusively for time trials and triathlons.

Solid Rear Wheel

Shimano rounds out this lineup with a new 987-gram solid rear wheel, developed to work in conjunction with the C99 and deliver the best possible aerodynamic efficiency during solo efforts.

Developed with the WorldTour

Shimano reports having worked closely with the Alpecin – Premier Tech Cycling Team and Fenix – Premier Tech Cycling Team, as well as with several professional triathletes.

Feedback from athletes such as Mathieu van der Poel and Kat Matthews helped refine the rim profiles, spoke patterns, and stiffness targets to ensure optimal performance during accelerations, sprints, and in crosswinds.

Availability

The new Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheels will be available starting in September 2026. The announced prices are €2,799.99 for a pair of C36, C50, and C60 wheels. Note that front and rear wheels will be available separately for those who may wish to mix rim heights. The C99 wheel will be priced at €1,399.99, and the full wheel set at €2,799.99.

Shimano will also offer a Crash Replacement program, providing a 50% discount on a wheel or a pair of wheels in the event of damage resulting from a fall or accident.

Finally, it’s worth noting that, ahead of the product launch, ten stores in France have been selected to offer test rides of the wheels.