Shimano Dura Ace WH-R9370-C50-TL Wheelset - 28" | Carbon | Clincher | Centerlock - 12x100mm | 12x142mm - HG L2

Dura Ace WH-R9370 – Science Of Speed

The wheels in the Dura-Ace series are part of the “Science of Speed” design philosophy from Shimano and, as such, the result of five years of development, validation and close collaboration with World Tour riders and professional triathletes. The WH-R9370 lineup covers the entire spectrum, from the lightest possible wheel system to models specifically designed for time trial bikes. Each wheelset was developed as a complete structure in which rims, spokes, hubs and bearings work together to ensure reliable performance. However, the goal is the same for all versions: a wheel that feels fast because it performs fast. Not just in the wind tunnel, on a perfect road or at a constant speed, but also in the face of the changing demands of the race.

A wheel is a system. The rim shape influences airflow and behavior in crosswinds. Spokes affect stiffness, responsiveness and vibration characteristics. Hubs and bearings determine smoothness, durability and ease of maintenance. When these elements are developed together, the result is not only greater speed but also greater safety. For this reason, the WH-R9370 wheel family focuses on three principles:

1. Aerodynamics validated by more than just a single test.
2. Carbon spokes for an optimal riding feel and responsiveness.
3. Advanced cup and cone bearings for smooth and reliable rotation.

The goal of aerodynamic optimization was not merely to reduce drag by disregarding all other external factors, but was primarily focused on achieving practical speed under real-world conditions. The decision to use carbon spokes was by no means one-sided or merely a matter of aesthetics as well. The specially developed spoke concept is based on structural decisions that influence lateral stiffness, acceleration and the conversion of force into forward motion. The spoke patterns are tailored to the specific application, ensuring that the character of each wheel suits its intended purpose. With its cup and cone bearing system, Shimano relies on a proven design, though not without incorporating several improvements. These improvements are specifically designed to enhance ease of maintenance. The bearings can be removed and replaced individually, rather than requiring the replacement of the entire hub. This results in a longer service life without sacrificing the well-known advantages: precise adjustability and smooth rolling performance in corners as well as during sprints.

Performance Is A Choice – C50: The Versatile

If there is one wheel that epitomizes balance, it is the C50 version of the Dura-Ace WH-R9370 series. This highly engineered all-rounder combines aerodynamics, low weight and stiffness in a design that suits almost any route and any rider. It is the wheel you will choose if you don’t want to have to decide between climbing performance and speed on flat terrain. The WH-R9370-C50 wheels feature an optimized carbon spoke setup and a new rim configuration that prioritizes stability for sprints, cornering and changing wind conditions. The result is a wheelset that feels dynamic during acceleration, composed at the limit and efficient at sustained high speeds. Versatility redefined.

Technical Details of the Shimano Dura Ace WH-R9370-C50 wheelset

• rims: carbon (painted)
• construction: Clincher (with hooks), Tubeless Ready
• wheel size: 28 inches (700C)
• inner width: 23 mm (front / rear)
• outer width: 31 mm (front) / 32 mm (rear)
• profile height: 50 mm (front / rear)
• recommended tire width: 28 to 45 mm (optimal: 28 to 30 mm)

• hubs, axles: aluminum (anodized)
• freewheel body: Shimano HG L2 (12-speed)
• freewheel type: ratchet
• bearings: cup and cone (CBN, polished)
• seals: contact
• brake disc interface: Centerlock
• installation dimension: 12 x 100 mm / 12 x 142 mm (thru axle)

• spokes: Shimano Aero, carbon
• spoke type: Straightpull, aero (4.0 x 1.1 mm)
• spoke count: 21 (front / rear)
• spoke pattern: OPTBAL (left radial / right double-crossed)
• nipples: aluminum (anodized)

• weight (manufacturer information): 
  approx. 1302 g (wheelset)
  approx. 593 g (front wheel)
  approx. 709 g (rear wheel)

OPTBAL | Wheels with the OPTBAL system use a 2:1 spoke ratio, resulting in twice as many spokes on the drivetrain side as on the opposite side. The technology counteracts the unbalanced tension caused by increasing cassette widths, especially on the right side. The OPTBAL construction balances out this spoke tension increasing the spokes' lifetime and improving the stiffness of the entire wheel as well.

Direct Engagement | In extensive tests, various prototypes were compared with a respective focus on drive, lateral and longitudinal stiffness. The result: the drive stiffness has the strongest influence on the drive force. This finding was the basis for the development of the Direct Engagement system, which increases the drive stiffness accordingly compared to the conventional pawl structure. This is achieved on the one hand by a larger contact surface and on the other hand by the toothing, which, thanks to its spiral shape, engages more tightly when the drive forces are applied.