Shimano Unveils Lighter, More Aerodynamic Dura-Ace Wheels with Carbon Spokes

Shimano has officially launched its advanced Dura-Ace wheelset, the WH-RH9370 series, which has already been undergoing rigorous testing by WorldTour teams. These wheels, notably ridden by athletes such as Mathieu van der Poel during key events like the Tour de France, represent a significant leap in cycling technology, focusing on weight reduction, enhanced aerodynamics, and improved durability. The new design incorporates carbon spokes, leading to a lighter and more efficient wheelset, alongside an optimized rim profile to accommodate modern tire trends.

The newly introduced WH-RH9370 series boasts a remarkable weight reduction of up to 220 grams per wheelset compared to its predecessor, the R9270. This substantial decrease is primarily attributed to the innovative use of carbon spokes, which are not only lighter but also offer superior stiffness and strength. This weight optimization is designed to translate into noticeable improvements in climbing performance and acceleration, without compromising the wheels' stability or overall lifespan. Furthermore, Shimano reports an aerodynamic drag reduction of up to 2.7 watts, a gain achieved through meticulous design and computational fluid dynamics, certified under real-world wind conditions.

Addressing the evolving preferences of professional cyclists and enthusiasts alike, Shimano has broadened the internal rim width from 21mm to 23mm. This adjustment provides better support for wider 28-30c tubeless tires, creating a more stable and aerodynamically efficient tire-rim interface. The design also features tailored carbon spokes, categorized into 'Super Aero' and 'Aero' types, with hidden nipples to minimize drag. The spoke count and configuration are specifically chosen for each rim depth (36mm, 50mm, and 60mm for road, and a 99mm deep front wheel with a rear disc for time trials) to optimize for factors like low weight, reactivity, and lateral stiffness during sprints.

A notable enhancement is the updated cup-and-cone bearing system, which now includes replaceable bearing cups. This addresses previous issues with water ingress and corrosion in the front bearings of older models, significantly improving the hubs' long-term serviceability and waterproofing. Shimano highlights that its comparative tests indicate these cup-and-cone hubs exhibit 30% less rotational torque than standard cartridge bearings under simulated riding conditions, suggesting a smoother operation. The new Dura-Ace wheels are priced at £2,299.98 / $2,970 for road wheelsets, with the time-trial range featuring a front wheel at £1,199.99 / $1,595 and a rear disc wheel at £2,299.99 / $3,030. They are expected to be available to consumers from September.

These innovations underscore Shimano's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of cycling performance. By combining significant weight savings with aerodynamic advantages and improved durability features, the new Dura-Ace wheelset aims to provide cyclists with a more efficient, reliable, and high-performance riding experience, maintaining its position as a leader in high-end cycling components.