The new DURA-ACE generation is here: everything changes in Shimano's best wheels

Shimano has completely revamped its high-end road wheel range with the launch of the new DURA-ACE WH-R9370, a platform developed under the philosophy of “Science of Speed” aimed at improving performance in all key aspects: weight, aerodynamics, stiffness, and mechanical efficiency.

Shimano presents the new DURA-ACE WH-R9370: up to 220 grams lighter, new carbon spokes, and a specific range for road, time trial, and triathlon

The new family has been developed in collaboration with WorldTour cyclists and professional triathletes, representing a comprehensive evolution from the previous R9270 generation. This is not just an update of the rims, but a complete redesign of the system made up of rim, spokes, and hubs, optimized for the demands of modern road cycling.

Five models to cover all disciplines

The new DURA-ACE WH-R9370 series consists of five different models, each designed for a specific use:

• WH-R9370-C36-TL, with a 36mm profile focused on climbing and mountainous routes
• WH-R9370-C50-TL, with a 50mm profile and the most versatile option for all types of terrain
• WH-R9370-C60-TL, with a 60mm profile aimed at fast stages, breakaways, and sprints
• WH-R9370-C99-TL-F, front wheel specifically for time trial and triathlon
• WH-R9370-D-TL-R, lenticular rear wheel developed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency alongside the C99

The entire range has been designed with the use of 28 to 30 mm tires in mind, a size that has become the new standard in professional cycling due to its better balance between rolling resistance, control, and comfort.

Up to 220 grams lighter compared to the previous generation

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One of the major advancements of the new platform is the significant weight reduction. Shimano has managed to lower the weight of all models compared to the previous DURA-ACE R9270 without compromising stiffness or durability.

The reductions are as follows:

According to Shimano, this improvement has been made possible thanks to a completely new architecture that combines an optimized distribution of the carbon layers in the rim, a new generation of carbon spokes, and a complete redesign of the system made up of rim, hub, and lacing.

The goal was to achieve faster acceleration and a more responsive bike, especially in changes of pace and climbs.

Optimized for 28 and 30 mm tires

The aerodynamic development has also followed the evolution of professional cycling. The entire range uses an internal rim width of 23 mm, specifically designed to work with 28 and 30 mm tires.

Additionally, Shimano has developed differentiated profiles for the front and rear wheels, adapting the external width of each based on the depth of the rim to find the best balance between aerodynamic efficiency, stability in crosswinds, and tire behavior.

The brand explains that each profile has been developed through advanced computational simulations and subsequently validated in aerodynamic tests under real steering conditions, not just at the ideal angles used in wind tunnels.

As a result, Shimano claims that using 30 mm tires and riding at 48 km/h, the new wheels achieve a reduction in aerodynamic drag of up to 2.7 watts compared to the previous generation, in addition to the weight savings achieved.

New generation of carbon spokes

Another major innovation of the WH-R9370 series is the new carbon spokes developed specifically by Shimano.

The brand introduces two distinct profiles:

• Super Aero: 5.2 x 0.8 mm
• Aero: 4.0 x 1.1 mm

Each model uses a different type of spoke, quantity, and arrangement based on its purpose.

In this way, Shimano adapts the behavior of each wheel to prioritize lightness in climbing, balance in versatile models, or maximum stiffness for sprints and high speeds.

The company explains that this development does not seek to optimize each element separately, but to jointly adjust the stiffness, aerodynamics, and absorption capacity of the complete system.

The cone and cup hub evolves

Shimano retains one of the most characteristic elements of its wheels: the adjustable cone and cup bearing system.

However, this new generation incorporates significant improvements aimed at both performance and maintenance.

Among them are replaceable bearing cups, greater waterproofing, greater long-term durability, and the ability to optimize the rotational torque once the wheels are mounted on the bike.

According to Shimano, this architecture allows for more efficient operation under loads from different directions and facilitates the wheels to spin with less resistance.

In tests conducted by the brand against conventional cartridge bearing systems, applying a vertical load of 500 N, a pedaling force of 200 N, and a through axle pressure of 5,000 N, the new cone and cup system recorded 30% less rotational torque, resulting in less friction and smoother rotation.

Specifications by model of the new Shimano DURA ACE wheels

DURA-ACE WH-R9370-C36-TL

Designed for climbers and routes with significant elevation changes.

Main features

• Weight: 1,170 g
• Internal width: 23 mm
• Front: 18 Aero spokes
• External width: 29.4 mm
• Rear: 21 Aero spokes
• External width: 29.4 mm

Shimano defines it as the lightest and most responsive wheel in the entire range.

DURA-ACE WH-R9370-C50-TL

The most balanced option for competitive use on any terrain.

Main features

• Weight: 1,302 g
• Front: 21 Aero spokes
• External width: 31.0 mm
• Rear: 21 Aero spokes
• External width: 32.0 mm

Aims to combine weight, aerodynamics, and stiffness in a single wheel capable of adapting to very different routes.

DURA-ACE WH-R9370-C60-TL

Developed for fast stages and sprints.

Main features

• Weight: 1,389 g
• Front: 21 Aero spokes
• External width: 31.5 mm
• Rear: 24 Aero spokes
• External width: 32.3 mm

Its priority is to offer high lateral stiffness and maintain speed in prolonged efforts.

DURA-ACE WH-R9370-C99-TL-F

The front wheel specifically for time trial and triathlon.

Main features

* Rim profile: 99 mm
* 16 Super Aero carbon spokes
* External width: 35.2 mm
* Weight: 792 g

It is designed to minimize aerodynamic drag in sustained individual efforts.

DURA-ACE WH-R9370-D-TL-R

Rear disc for time trial and triathlon.

Main features

• Full disc construction
• Profile developed through aerodynamic simulations
• Designed to work alongside the front wheel C99
• Weight: 987 g

Both models form the most aerodynamic configuration developed by Shimano for time trial competition.

Developed alongside Mathieu van der Poel and the Alpecin and Fenix teams

During the development of the new platform, Shimano worked with cyclists from the Alpecin–Premier Tech Cycling Team and Fenix–Premier Tech Cycling Team, as well as several professional triathletes.

Among them is Mathieu van der Poel, whose feedback, along with that of triathlete Kat Matthews, was used to refine aspects such as acceleration, stability in sprints, and behavior in crosswinds.

The information obtained in competition also helped define the spoke configuration, rim profiles, and stiffness targets for each of the models.

Availability

The new Shimano DURA-ACE WH-R9370 range will hit the market starting September 2026.

Shimano has not announced an official retail price, indicating only that the final cost will depend on each market and the specifications of each assembly.