Shimano has unveiled its latest innovation in high-performance cycling: the Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheel series. This new lineup is meticulously engineered to meet the demands of modern road racing, time trials, and triathlons, offering cyclists a blend of reduced weight, enhanced aerodynamics, and superior responsiveness.
A New Era in Wheel Design
The WH-R9370 series introduces several key advancements:
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Weight Reduction: Shimano has achieved a significant weight saving of up to 220 grams per wheelset compared to the previous Dura-Ace R9270 generation. The C36 model now weighs a claimed 1,170 grams, the C50 at 1,302 grams, and the C60 at 1,389 grams.
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Aerodynamic Efficiency: Optimized for 28-30C tires, the wheels feature a 23mm internal rim width and external profiles designed to balance aerodynamic performance with crosswind stability. Testing at 48 km/h on 30C tires indicates a reduction of up to 2.7 watts in aerodynamic drag compared to the previous generation.
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Carbon Spokes: The introduction of new carbon spokes in Super Aero (5.2mm x 0.8mm) and Aero (4.0mm x 1.1mm) profiles allows for precise tuning of each wheel’s performance characteristics, from climbing responsiveness to high-speed rigidity.
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Enhanced Serviceability: The wheels retain Shimano’s adjustable cup-and-cone hub architecture, now incorporating replaceable bearings for improved serviceability. Comparative testing shows a 30% reduction in rotational torque compared to typical cartridge-bearing setups.
Tailored Models for Every Cyclist
The WH-R9370 series offers a range of models to suit various cycling disciplines:
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C36: Designed for climbers, this lightweight wheelset features a 23mm internal rim width and Aero carbon spokes, with a 29.4mm external width front and rear.
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C50: An all-rounder wheelset with a 31.0mm external width at the front and 32.0mm at the rear, utilizing Aero carbon spokes.
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C60: Tailored for flat stages and sprint-focused racing, this wheelset has a 31.5mm external front width and 32.3mm rear width, also with Aero carbon spokes.
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C99 Front Wheel: Aimed at time trials and triathlons, this wheel boasts a 99mm rim depth, 16 Super Aero carbon spokes, a 35.2mm external width, and a claimed weight of 792 grams.
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Rear Disc Wheel: Designed for solo efforts against the clock, this wheel features full disc construction and a claimed weight of 987 grams.
Collaborative Development
The development of the WH-R9370 series involved feedback from professional triathletes and riders from Alpecin-Premier Tech and Fenix-Premier Tech Cycling Teams. Insights from athletes like Kat Matthews and Mathieu van der Poel were instrumental in refining acceleration response, sprint stability, and crosswind predictability.
Availability
The Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheel series is set to become available from September 2026 onwards, with precise availability varying by region.
For cyclists seeking cutting-edge performance, the Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheel series represents a significant advancement in wheel technology, combining Shimano’s engineering excellence with the evolving needs of competitive cycling.