First ride with the new Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheelset.

Unveiled in late July 2026, the new Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheelset is lighter and wider than the previous model. Now featuring carbon spokes, it promises better performance, greater stability, and optimized aerodynamics. After riding approximately 400 km on a variety of roads, here are our first impressions. A long-term test is coming up to confirm whether or not this 50-mm-tall model lives up to its excellent reputation. By Guillaume Judas – Photos: ©3bikes.fr

For several years now, high-end wheelsets have seen their rims widen to accommodate the widespread adoption of 28- or 30-mm tires. Aerodynamic profiles are being refined, and manufacturers are seeking to reduce weight without sacrificing stiffness or stability. In this context, Shimano couldn’t settle for a simple update to its excellent Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9270 C50 wheels, which were launched five years ago.

With the new Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 C50, the Japanese company has thoroughly revamped its design. The numbers speak for themselves. The C50 version weighs in at just 1,304 g, which is 157 g less than the previous generation. That’s a particularly significant weight reduction for a 50-mm-deep wheelset, putting it on par with some rivals that run shallower rims. But Shimano hasn’t focused solely on weight reduction. The goal is also to adapt to evolving riding styles and equipment. Today, tires with a minimum width of 28 mm have become the standard even in the WorldTour peloton. Expectations focus as much on stability in crosswinds as on aerodynamic efficiency and comfort. The new Dura-Ace wheels are therefore entering a market where industry leaders such as the Zipp 454 NSW, CADEX Max 50 Ultra, Reserve 50|57, ENVE SES 4.5, and Roval Rapide CLX III have significantly raised the bar.

A completely redesigned new generation

While the rim height remains at 50 mm, the WH-R9370s ultimately have little in common with the WH-R9270s. The first change concerns width. The internal width has increased from 21 to 23 mm to optimise compatibility with 28- to 30-mm tyres. This gives the tires a more open profile, with the sidewalls better supported by the rim, which improves handling precision and the overall consistency of the bike’s performance. Even more interestingly, Shimano now uses different outer widths for the front and rear wheels: 31 mm for the front wheel and 32 mm for the rear wheel.

This choice perfectly illustrates the work done on aerodynamics. The front wheel prioritizes a balance between air penetration and stability in crosswinds. Meanwhile, the rear wheel—less sensitive to this phenomenon—can feature a slightly wider profile to further reduce drag. This differentiated approach is also reflected in the geometry of the rims themselves, whose profiles are no longer identical between the two wheels. Shimano no longer views the pair as two identical wheels, but as two components, each playing a specific role in the bike’s overall performance.

Carbon spokes that make a big difference

The weight reduction is also due to a new rim design, but above all to the introduction of carbon spokes. This is undoubtedly the most spectacular innovation in this new generation. Shimano has abandoned flat steel spokes in favor of carbon spokes specially developed for these wheels.

Beyond the weight savings, these spokes directly contribute to the feeling of responsiveness. Rotating mass is reduced, accelerations feel more immediate, and the wheel seems to gain liveliness without becoming more demanding to ride. This design change is a major factor in the 157 g saved per pair.

Cone-and-cup bearings that are now easier to maintain

While many manufacturers now favor cartridge bearings, Shimano remains loyal to its system of cone and cup bearings. This type of bearing continues to offer several advantages—when properly adjusted—in terms of smoothness, low rolling resistance, and durability. In fact, this has been one of Shimano’s technical hallmarks for several decades.

The real innovation lies in the hub cups themselves, which are now replaceable. This is a subtle but particularly significant change. Until now, wear on the hub cups could permanently compromise a hub’s lifespan. Now they can be replaced, which should significantly extend the lifespan of the wheels while reducing maintenance costs. Shimano also announces improved sealing to better protect the bearings in harsh conditions.

Wheels That Are Immediately More Stable and Responsive

After riding nearly 400 km on hilly routes, fast sections and several windy rides, a clear trend has emerged. The most striking quality is undoubtedly stability. With greater width and a 50-mm rim, the new Dura-Ace wheels immediately inspire confidence when the wind is blowing from the side. The front wheel feels more neutral, less sensitive to gusts, and handles particularly reassuringly on long, fast descents or on exposed roads.

The second improvement concerns responsiveness. Accelerations require less effort, and the wheels feel more responsive than the WH-R9270. This livelier character is evident both during sharp accelerations and when changing pace out of corners or while standing on the pedals. The weight savings, as well as the new carbon spokes, seem to contribute to this added sense of responsiveness. However, these initial impressions still need to be confirmed. It will take more kilometers, varied weather conditions, and longer climbs to accurately gauge the real benefits of this new generation.

One thing is already certain, however: Shimano didn’t just make its Dura-Ace wheels lighter. The WH-R9370 wheelset is more modern, designed for the wider tyres used today, with a more sophisticated approach to aerodynamics, stability and dynamic performance.

Now it remains to be seen, over many kilometers and in all conditions, whether these excellent first impressions hold up during our long-term test. But for now, I’d put them on par with the excellent Roval Rapide CLX III.

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