While so much of the Shimano Dura-Ace 9100 series components have received serious upgrades, the WH-9100-C24-CL Wheelset has just a few changes from it's standout predecessor of the 9000 series. Both hubs feature 15mm oversized alloy axles and both the bearings and cup surfaces have the harder CBN finish process. Shimano introduced many new disc brake compatible wheelsets with the R9100 release, but the C24 version is now only for rim brake, in a traditional clincher. There is no longer a Dura-Ace level tubeless option with the C24 rim concept.

If you require a 1453 gram clincher wheelset, optimized for 23-28mm tires, with a tuned ride and legendary Shimano build quality, then the C24-CL delivers. The C24 rims feature a proprietary, in-house construction in which carbon is laminated over a thinly machined aluminum rim. You then get the best of both worlds. The carbon portion is light and stiff does an excellent job of damping road vibration and impact while enhancing the strength and lateral stiffness of rim at the same time. The alloy braking surface is far superior to carbon won't retain much heat at any temperature and is incredibly durable. Shimano has proven this bi-material rim technology wholly effective over the years, with overall durability and performance rated to the highest level of all around aluminum based road wheels.

The WH-9100-C24-CL is 11-speed compatible and comes with a 1.85mm spacer so it will work with 10, 9, 8-speed and SRAM road cassettes as well. The R9100 hubset used for this wheel strongly resembles the wider, stiffer flange set-up of the 9000 series, and carries the straight-pull spoke design with it. The hubs are built to Dura-Ace standard featuring angular contact bearing and labyrinth seals, The flanges are super wide comparative to the 10-speed generation, increasing the distance of the spokes between the flange creating a wider center for a far stronger and more stable wheel. The spokes are butted bladed spokes and the nipples are the standard Shimano black alloy variety. The front wheel is 16 hole with radial lacing, while the rear is 20 hole with a 2x lacing pattern.

In terms of how the wheels ride, smooth, responsive speed comes to mind. Many factory wheels have a stiff ride quality because they use fewer spokes at a higher tension. Shimano builds the WH-9100-C24-CL to ride like a well-conceived hand-built wheel that smooths rough roads white having plenty of rigidity when needed for hill sprints and criteriums. You also get built-in durability and longevity with the hubs, which because of the seal and bearing system will last many seasons with next to zero required maintenance. Shimano Dura-Ace delivers the best skewers in the business and over the past few years this carbon-hybrid rim design has proven to be as durable as anything else currently on the market. What else can you ask for? Well, Shimano also rim tape, spoke wrenches and wheel bags.