The all-rounder of the new DURA-ACE wheel lineup, the C50 is both lighter than the previous C40 model and nearly as aerodynamic as the previous C60. It's a wheelset at home in a wide range of conditions. From time trials to criteriums, on rolling terrain or attempting a personal best, the new C50 is the ideal wheel for spirited road riding.

The perfect blend of low weight and aerodynamic performance, the all-new DURA-ACE C50 features an updated all-carbon tubeless rim and new hub design that drops weight while enhancing rigidity.

Technologies

Center Lock - The Center Lock system makes an easy rotor installation possible with spline mount and a lock ring. The lock ring mounting system reduces the total working hours by shortening the amount of time of both installation and de-installation. In addition, the secure fixing by the spline mount enhances precision and rigidity while improving braking efficiency.

D2 - Aerodynamic performance is affected by wind direction. To create the D2 rim, Shimano engineers considered both frontal and cross winds, aiming to achieve optimal performance in real-world riding conditions. Extensive prototype testing, in the wind-tunnel and on the road, proved that a wide rim shape with a deep tire bed performs best across a wide range of conditions. At yaw angles ranging from 0 to 15 degrees, the Shimano D2 rim profile reduces air drag better than others aero shape rims. This rim design also boosts lateral wheel stiffness and offers improved vertical compliance for increased control, comfort and durability on the road.

E-Thru Axle - The tool-less type thru-axle skewer system optimizes rigidity and weight balance and enables easy operation with a reliable internal cam mechanism. The 15 mm thru-axle system is 15% stiffer torsionally and 25% stiffer in transverse shear than a traditional 9 mm quick release front axle system. High rigidity is secured while keeping the optimum weight balance. The E-THRU axle hub system minimizes the distortion of suspension while maintaining lightweight for riding around sharp corners at high speed. An 8 mm thru-axle system for the trekking/hybrid hub and dynamo hub and a 12 mm thru-axle system for the rear are also available.

Optbal (Rear) - The OPTBAL rear wheel spoke system features 21 spokes—14 on the drive side and 7 on the non-drive side. Cassette spacing in today’s wheels produces unbalanced tension in traditional 1:1 spoke systems. This unbalance is intensified with the 11-speed cassette, producing nearly double the tension on the drive side spokes. Generally high and low tension spokes have respectively tendency toward breaking down and coming loose spoke nipples. Unbalanced tension affects durability and strength. The OPTBAL design rebalances spoke tension, enhancing wheel rigidity and strength for a more durable wheel.

Features

Front

• All-round tubeless wheels with balanced aerodynamics and lightweight materials
• 50 mm height full carbon rim
• Internal rim width: 21 mm

Rear

• 50 mm height full carbon rim
• Internal rim width: 21 mm
• DIRECT ENGAGEMENT
• Compatible only with Shimano road 12-speed cassette sprockets

Specifications