Equipment > Components > Wheels > Road > Road Wheels Disc
Description
Carbon wheel technology that once defined flagship pricing now cascades through product lines, and the Shimano Ultegra WH-R8170-C36-TL wheelset represents that progression clearly. These wheels share their D2 rim profile with the Dura-Ace R9200 series, meaning the aerodynamic development, wind tunnel testing, and rim shape optimization that went into the top-tier wheels translates directly to this Ultegra offering. The difference lies primarily in the hub construction, where Shimano uses anodized aluminum rather than the lighter materials found at the Dura-Ace level. For riders who prioritize rim performance over hub weight savings, the value proposition becomes obvious.
The 36mm rim depth positions the C36 as the climbing and acceleration specialist within the Ultegra wheel lineup, which also includes 50mm and 60mm options. Shallow profiles spin up faster and handle crosswinds with less disruption, characteristics that matter on technical descents and punchy climbs where momentum shifts constantly. The D2 rim shape addresses aerodynamics across yaw angles from zero to fifteen degrees, accounting for the angled airflow that occurs in real-world riding rather than optimizing solely for head-on wind. Internal width measures 21mm with a 28mm external width, a combination that pairs naturally with 26-30mm tires while supporting widths from 25mm up to 38mm.
Tubeless compatibility comes standard, with rim tape pre-installed. The hooked bead interface provides secure tire seating during inflation while maintaining tubeless air retention. Running tubeless eliminates inner tube weight and rolling resistance losses while enabling lower pressures for improved grip and comfort. For riders not ready to commit to tubeless, the hooked rim design works equally well with traditional clincher setups.... Read More
Features
- D2 aerodynamic rim profile shared with Dura-Ace R9200 wheels
- 36mm carbon rim depth optimized for climbing and acceleration
- 21mm internal width, 28mm external width
- Hooked tubeless-ready rim with tape pre-installed
- Compatible with tire widths from 25mm to 38mm
- Ultegra R8170 hubs with pawl ratchet engagement
- 11-speed HG freehub compatible with both 11 and 12-speed Shimano road cassettes
- Cup and cone bearings with CBN-finished cones, fully serviceable
- 24 straight-pull bladed stainless steel spokes front and rear
- OPTBAL asymmetrical rear lacing for balanced spoke tension
- 12mm thru-axle with E-Thru interface, 100mm front, 142mm rear
- Center Lock disc brake rotor mount
- Includes tubeless valve stems
- 1488 grams per pair