The rims on the WH-RS81 C24 CL wheels feature a proprietary, in-house construction where carbon is lamented to a thin aluminum rim. You then get the best of both worlds. The carbon portion is light and stiff does an excellent job of dampening the ride while enhancing the strength of rim at the same time. The alloy braking surface is far superior to carbon and is incredibly durable.

The WH-9000-C24-CL is 11-speed compatible and comes with a 1.85mm spacer so it will work with 10, 9, 8-speed and SRAM too. Other differences over the WH-7900 wheels include improved hub flanges for increased strength. Styling is a bit sharper with a new black anodized hub finish, black spokes and nipples and a glossier finish on the rim.

The hubs are based on Dura-Ace design featuring angular contact bearing and labyrinth seals, however vary a bit by offering straight pull spokes and a wider stance for the spokes. The flanges are super wide increasing the distance of the spokes between the flange creating a wider footprint 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 a radial lace, while the rear is 20 hole with a 2x lacing pattern.

In terms of how the wheels ride, we would have to say 2 words that comes to mind are fast and comfortable. Many factory wheels have a stiff ride quality because they use fewer spokes at a higher tension. Shimano builds the WH-9000-C24-CL to ride like a well-conceived hand-built wheel that smoothes rough roads white having plenty of rigidity when needed for hill sprints and criteriums. You also get a particular amount of built in durability and longevity with the hubs, because of the design - they will last many seasons with no required maintenance. They offer a pair of 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. Includes skewers, rim tape, spoke wrenches. Return to Top