Shimano

RS11 Wheelset - Clincher

The RS11 wheelset from Shimano is a durable set of hoops, perfect for everyday training. Reserve the carbon tubulars for race day and fast group rides and have these wheels ready to go year-round, especially during the winter months, or keep a trainer tire and cassette on it so it's always on the ready to slap on the turbo. This model might be less expensive than the other offerings from Shimano and others, but it doesn't lack quality, in fact, the RS11 is quite the upgrade on many entry through mid-level bikes.

The wheels feature 24mm profile aluminum rims lending to a much more comfortable ride and less affected in windy conditions when compared to deeper section wheels. To bring an aero advantage back into the equation, Shimano uses a low count of 16 front and 20 rear stainless steel bladed spokes. By using straight pull spokes, as opposed to j-bend spokes with elbows, the tension can be drawn much higher leading to higher lateral and torsional rigidity for improved power transmission and a responsive ride. On the rear rim, a 3mm offset helps balance the spoke tension differential created when dishing the wheel to accommodate the cassette on the drive side for better longevity and improved stiffness.

Like every wheel in Shimano's arsenal, this wheelset uses its tried-and-true angular contact, cup-and-cone bearings. They better cope with lateral and radial loads than cartridge bearings and friction levels are generally lower as it eliminates the drag associated with rubber seals. As an added bonus, they are user serviceable and are easy to clean, grease, and maintain.