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What’s the most important performance feature of a wheel? Shimano reckon it’s the rim, which is why they're including their Dura-Ace level WH-7850-C50-CL hybrid carbon clincher rims with their new WH-RS-C50-CL Ultegra level wheelset.

The 50mm deep, aero-shaped hybrid rim combines a structural unidirectional carbon fibre rim section with an aluminium clincher tyre bed and braking surface. The aluminium section is unique in that it is co-moulded to the carbon and only makes up the inner wall of the rim.

Sixteen front and 20 rear butted and bladed stainless steel spokes connect the Dura-Ace rims to the RS (Ultegra 6700 level) hubs. The front hub has a steel axle while the rear's is alloy and accepts eight-, nine- and 10-speed cassettes. Both hubs are built with anodised alloy shells and use traditional angular contact bearings.

Shimano, you've done it again. Beating the opposition on price, quality and performance.