Shimano’s latest Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheel series marks a significant evolution in high-performance cycling technology. This new lineup introduces carbon spokes, wider rims, reduced weights, and a specialized time trial configuration featuring a 99mm front wheel paired with a rear disc.
Comprehensive Wheel Range
The WH-R9370 series encompasses the following models:
- C36: Climbing-focused wheelset weighing 1,170g.
- C50: Versatile all-rounder at 1,302g.
- C60: Aerodynamic deep-section wheelset at 1,389g.
- C99: Dedicated time trial front wheel with a 99mm rim depth, weighing 792g.
- R9370 Rear Disc: Matching rear disc wheel at 987g.
These wheels have been developed in collaboration with professional cyclists, including teams like Alpecin-Premier Tech and Fenix-Premier Tech, as well as athletes such as Kat Matthews and Mathieu van der Poel. The lineup is fully tubeless-compatible, aligning with modern tire standards.
Weight Reduction and Carbon Spokes
A standout feature of the WH-R9370 series is the incorporation of carbon spokes, contributing to notable weight savings compared to the previous Dura-Ace R9270 wheels:
- C36: Reduced from 1,350g to 1,170g.
- C50: Dropped from 1,461g to 1,302g.
- C60: Decreased from 1,609g to 1,389g.
This reduction is achieved through the use of carbon spokes in two profiles: Aero (4.0 x 1.1mm) for the C36, C50, and C60 models, and Super Aero (5.2 x 0.8mm) for the C99 front wheel. The C99 front wheel features 16 Super Aero spokes, enhancing its aerodynamic performance.
Rim Design and Tire Compatibility
The rims have been designed to accommodate modern tire sizes, with internal widths of 23mm, suitable for 28-30c tires. Shimano’s testing at 48 km/h with 30c tires demonstrated up to 2.7 watts less drag compared to the previous generation. The C50 and C60 models also feature front- and rear-specific external widths, with the C60 measuring 31.5mm wide at the front and 32.3mm at the rear.
Hub System and Sealing
Maintaining Shimano’s preference for cup-and-cone hubs, the new system includes replaceable bearing cups, improved waterproof sealing, and reduced friction. Shimano claims that this revised setup exhibits 30% lower rotational torque compared to typical cartridge bearings in their own testing.
Pricing and Availability
The pricing for the WH-R9370 wheelsets is as follows:
- C36, C50, C60: $2,970 each.
- C99 Front Wheel: $1,595.
- R9370 Rear Disc: $3,030.
Shimano has announced that these wheels will be available starting September 2026.
The introduction of the WH-R9370 series signifies Shimano’s commitment to advancing cycling technology, offering riders a range of high-performance wheels tailored to various disciplines and preferences.