Shimano RS81-C24 vs Dura Ace 9000-C24?

[Gartenmeister]

I am looking at purchasing a set of Shimano C24 wheels (CL version- non-tubeless).

I am well aware of the outstanding reputation of the Dura Ace 9000-C24s and had been intending to purchase them. I then stumbled on the RS81-C24, which I believe uses an identical rim with a different hub. This wheel also seems to be well-liked, if not as well-known. The respective weights appear to be 1387 and 1520 grams. The price difference is about $250.

Anyone who has tried both care to compare them?

[MaraudingWalrus]

way too basic overview is that it's a Dura Ace rim with an Ultegra level hub. So, essentially what it boils down to for me is that it has a steel freehub body, not titanium, and the bearings don't get another step of polish.

[zzy]

The above is correct - I have some RS-80s and love them.

[MaraudingWalrus]

Originally Posted by zzy

The above is correct - I have some RS-80s and love them.

Oh yea, conclusion: if you can handle a few grams, get the RS81s.

[nate2351]

I'm not a fan of the design of the bearing preload on the 105/Ultegra hubs. Mine constantly fell out of adjustment. For that reason I'd get the C24.

[Gartenmeister]

Originally Posted by nate2351

I'm not a fan of the design of the bearing preload on the 105/Ultegra hubs. Mine constantly fell out of adjustment. For that reason I'd get the C24.

"C24" refers to the rim, and both options I am considering use them.

Are the DA/9000 hubs fundamentally different then the RS81?? Or just heavier? The Shimano mumbo jumbo looks pretty similar, aside from the titanium freehub body on the DA.

RS81:

Dura-Ace trickle down technologies
Shimano manufactured carbon/alloy clinchers
Easy maintenance: Digital adjust system; Less QR axial force
Proprietary SHIMANO carbon-alloy construction process
SHIMANO angular contact bearings and oversize A7075 alloy axles


9000:

Wide flange hub with offset rim for maximum rigidity and power transmission
2-cross tangent, straight laced spokes optimizes torsional rigidity
Proprietary SHIMANO carbon-alloy composite construction
High strength and lightweight titanium freehub body
Digital cone-bearing adjustment for smooth rotation performance
SHIMANO angular contact bearings and oversize A7075 alloy axles

[oldpotatoe]

Originally Posted by MaraudingWalrus

way too basic overview is that it's a Dura Ace rim with an Ultegra level hub. So, essentially what it boils down to for me is that it has a steel freehub body, not titanium, and the bearings don't get another step of polish.

What he said..if you look at the parts blow up and part numbers(wish shimano had some compatibility in their different levels of wheels/hubs but...) Ultegra hub on 'DA' wheel. Having said that, ultegra level hubs excellent.

[mktng]

My understanding was always.... RS81 C24 is closer to Ultegra's 6800 wheelset. Slightly heavier, different materials compared to proper C24 DA. I was faced with this dilemma. Wanted the Dura Ace ( name sake ) but then just bought the 6800 wheelset. To be fair you can't notice the performance difference compared to the RS81 C24. Also 1/2 the price.

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[Davist]

I had read (here somewhere: https://intheknowcycling.com/) the hubs on the RS81 version have less "engagement points" vs DA hubs. I don't think it'd be an issue, unless racing "at the highest level". I have the DA version, got used on a deal, great wheels. Thinking of RS81 C35s for this year mebbe...

[LeadoutTrain5]

The C24's are pretty boss!

[mtechnica]

I've been looking at these too but I'm not sold on them, any thoughts on how they would compare to 50mm aero wheels for racing?

[bpiecuch]

I don't have direct comparison between the Dura-Ace C24 and the RS81 C24. But I did demo and race on a set of RS81's (C24 rim). They were quite an amazing set of wheels. I raced on a hilly Connecticut course and they were super light, spun up quickly, and rode amazingly well for a 21mm wide rim.

Ultimately, I choose to purchase a different set of wheels, with a wider 25mm rim. They don't ride nearly as well as the RS81's, though offer similar weight and performance specs. I would attribute the comfort level 100% to the rim differences.

Based on the couple of rides I did with the RS81's, I can't imagine how much better the Dura-Ace wheels would be. The DA hub can't contribute to ride characteristics, and should have marginal performance advantage (based on weight). Durability and maintenance is a different story. But if you're looking for the best value, the RS81's are it.

[batman1425]

Had a set of the 7850 C24 version and a friend with the RS80s. Side by side identical save for the decals and hubs. Indistinguishable performance aside from the RS's weighing a tiny bit more. The RS81 wheels are IMO one of the better values out there.

[Gartenmeister]

Thanks for the input all. I decided to go with the RS81s based on the positive comments (and since the 9000s are currently out of stock at Shimano).

[benc]

Originally Posted by mtechnica

I've been looking at these too but I'm not sold on them, any thoughts on how they would compare to 50mm aero wheels for racing?

About 26mm less deep. Apples to oranges really.

I have DA9k C24's as well as 50mm carbon wheels. The DA are lighter, climb better, and feel a little aero at speed but the deep carbon wheels are faster and hold speed better upwards of 22 mph or so. I like deeper wheels for racing, C24's for training, everyday riding.

If you can only have one wheel set, C24 all the way.