Welcome to Pez’s Gear Break, July end edition! This week, we kick things off with Shimano’s flagship release—the all-new Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheel lineup, freshly ridden to a Stage 21 victory at Le Tour by Mathieu van der Poel. We also take a close look at LAP’s D3O-protected Project 001 race suit, Scicon’s commemorative 5-Tour eyewear honoring Tadej Pogačar, Silca’s re-engineered Super Secret 2.0 drip wax, the heavy-duty Cordalock, and a hot-weather active cooling solution from Kembag. Let’s dive in!
Shimano Dura-Ace Wheel Lineup
Engineered for modern racing
SHIMANO has officially launched the DURA-ACE WH-R9370 road wheel lineup. And, what an entry to the market – Mathieu van der Poel won the 21st stage of Le Tour last Sunday on these new wheels. Developed under Shimano’s Science of Speed design philosophy, the new platform delivers improvements in weight reduction, aerodynamic efficiency, and structural stiffness for road, time trial, and triathlon racing. Optimized for 28–30C tires, the lineup retains Shimano’s adjustable cup-and-cone system while introducing replaceable bearings for improved serviceability.
Most exciting, this Dura-Ace wheelset range is numbered 9300. Current gen Dura-Ace groupset is number 9200. The internet is ablaze with rumors that there could soon be a Dura-Ace 9300 groupset release, perhaps full wireless and 13-speeds? We have no news of such, but it’s not a far-fetched guess. For now, let’s get into these wheels.
Shimano purpose-built the WH-R9370 lineup to meet today’s racing standards. These wheels are optimized for 28–30C tires, and tuned to the accelerating demands of elite competition. Shimano retained the venerable adjustable cup-and-cone system that facilitates optimizing rotational torque when installed to the bike. Engineers introduced replaceable bearings for improved serviceability. This means the rotational torque can be optimized for each individual bike, preventing energy waste and allowing your wheels to spin freely and efficiently.
Weight Reduction and Acceleration
Compared with the previous DURA-ACE R9270 generation, WH-R9370 reduces weight by up to 220 grams per wheelset, delivering a markedly more agile climbing feel and sharper acceleration—without sacrificing handling stability or durability.
Weight comparison (per set):
- C36: 1350g → 1170g (–180g)
- C50: 1461g → 1302g (–159g)
- C60: 1609g → 1389g (–220g)
This advancement stems from a fully re-engineered structure, highlighted by new carbon spoke technology, improved rim layups, and holistic system engineering across the rim, hub, and spoke architectures.
Aerodynamic Optimization for 28–30C Race Tires
Modern road racing has shifted toward wider tires to improve rolling efficiency and control. Shimano designed the WH-R9370 series accordingly, featuring:
- 23 mm internal rim width for optimized tire shape and stability
- Front- and rear-specific rim profiles tuned per depth
- External widths engineered to balance aerodynamics and crosswind stability
In controlled testing at 48 km/h (30 mph) on 30C tires, riders saved up to 2.7W in aerodynamic drag, combined with an overall weight reduction versus the previous generation. These saving achieved measurable gains in competitive scenarios. Each rim profile was refined using advanced computational simulations. Engineers then validated the profiles in controlled aerodynamic testing environments ensuring performance across real-world yaw conditions.
Carbon Spokes: Purpose-Built for Race Demands
A defining innovation of the WH-R9370 wheelsets is Shimano’s newly engineered carbon spokes, developed in two profiles to match specific performance objectives:
- Super Aero: 5.2 mm × 0.8 mm
- Aero: 4.0 mm × 1.1 mm
Spoke type, count, and configuration are tailored per model to deliver the intended ride character, featuring Aero and Super Aero profiles. Shimano tuned each wheel to achieve its target performance, delivering everything from agile climbing response to all-round racing balance and uncompromising high-speed rigidity for sprinting and flat stages. Engineers tuned the stiffness, aerodynamics, and compliance together using a system-specific approach.
Upgraded Cup-and-Cone: Faster, Serviceable, and Waterproof
For performance-driven riders who train and compete extensively, smooth rotation, precise adjustability, and long-term serviceability are critical. The new wheels retain Shimano’s adjustable cup-and-cone hub architecture, known for smooth rotation and precise adjustment under multidirectional loads. The system optimizes rotational torque when installed on the bike, and has evolved with replaceable bearings to support consistent long-term performance.
In comparative testing involving identical forces (500N vertical force, 200N thrust force, and 5000N thru-axle clamping force), Shimano’s updated cup-and-cone system demonstrated a 30% lower rotational torque than typical cartridge-bearing setups.
Key features:
- Replaceable bearing cups
- Improved waterproof sealing
- Enhanced long-term durability
Next-Generation Dura-Ace Wheels Lineup
WH-R9370-C36-TL: Lightweight for climbing
Key features:
- 1170 g per set
- 23 mm internal width
- Front: Aero, 18 spokes, 29.4 mm external width
- Rear: Aero, 21 spokes, 29.4 mm external width
Lightweight responsiveness is brought to a whole new level with the new C36 wheelset, the ideal companion for your rides in mountainous terrain.
WH-R9370-C50-TL: High performance all-round riding
Key features:
- 1302 g per set
- 23 mm internal width
- Front: Aero, 21 spokes, 31.0 mm external width
- Rear: Aero, 21 spokes, 32.0 mm external width
With the C50 wheelset, riders can expect an all-round race performance, balancing weight, aerodynamics, and stiffness for varied courses and changing conditions.
WH-R9370-C60-TL: Aerodynamic and with high stiffness
Key features:
- 1389 g per set
- 23 mm internal width
- Front: Aero, 21 spokes, 31.5 mm external width
- Rear: Aero, 24 spokes, 32.3 mm external width
The C60 wheelset is optimized for flat stages, breakaways, and sprint-driven racing where sustained speed and lateral rigidity are critical.
WH-R9370-C99-TL-F: TT and Triathlon Front Wheel
Key features:
- 99 mm rim depth
- Super Aero carbon spokes (16 spokes)
- 35.2 mm external width
- Wheel weight: 792 g
The C99 wheel is designed to minimize drag in sustained high-speed efforts for time trial and triathlon competition.
WH-R9370-D-TL-R: Rear Disc for Maximum Aero Efficiency
Key features:
- Full disc construction
- Aerodynamic profile derived from extensive simulation
- Designed to complete the C99 front system
- Wheel weight: 987 g
Together, the C99 and Disc form Shimano’s dedicated aerodynamic race configuration for solo efforts against the clock.
Developed and Validated with WorldTour Cyclists and Professional Triathletes
Throughout development, Shimano worked closely with professional triathletes and riders from Alpecin-Premier Tech Cycling Team and Fenix-Premier Tech Cycling Team to validate performance under race conditions. Feedback from elite athletes, including top triathletes such as Kat Matthews and multi-discipline World Champion (and 2026 Td F Stage 21 winner) Mathieu van der Poel, played a critical role in refining ride characteristics like acceleration response, sprint stability, and crosswind predictability to ensure the lineup delivers the intuitive ride feel demanded at race speed.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing in USD
- WH-R9370-C36-TL wheelset: $2,970
- WH-R9370-C50-TL wheelset: $2,970
- WH-R9370-C60-TL wheelset: $2,970
- WH-R9370-C99-TL-F front wheel: $1,595
- WH-R9370-D-TL-R rear disc: $3,030
Availability: Wheels will be available from September 2026 onwards.
LAP Project 001
Certified Crash Protection Meets Race-Ready Performance
Bicycle racing has pushed boundary after boundary: frames are lighter, tires are wider, and aero drag has been shaved down to the watt. Yet outside of the helmet on your head, rider protection hasn’t evolved nearly as fast. The surfaces aren’t softer, and race speeds are faster each year, with crashes bringing higher forces. Whether you’re on dirt or tarmac, crashing hurts and causes injuries.
Enter LAP (Light. Aerodynamic. Protection.) and their newly launched Project 001 — Founder’s Cut. Designed to eliminate the trade-off between outright speed and meaningful impact safety, Project 001 brings flexible, high-tech D3O® impact absorption into a full race suit architecture.
Redefining Protection
Rather than starting with bulky body armor and trying to shave off material until it fits like cycling kit, LAP built Project 001 from the ground up as a high-performance race suit. Integrated directly into key impact zones are flexible D3O® inserts. Under normal riding conditions, D3O® remains soft, pliable, and unobtrusive, moving naturally with the body while preserving airflow and aerodynamic efficiency. Upon sudden impact, the material stiffens to absorb and dissipate energy before returning to its flexible state.
Myself a “groadie,” I reached out to LAP to inquire about its applicability for gravel racing and riding. Joseph Lupien, LAP Founder and CEO, who represented Canada at the UCI Gravel World Championship in 2023, came right back to let us know that this is for use on road and gravel.
Joseph sez: PROJECT 001 wasn’t designed as a ‘padded suit.’ It first had to be a legitimate performance race suit: light, aerodynamic, breathable, and unrestricted. Then we had to figure out how to integrate meaningful impact protection without compromising those qualities.
That applies just as much to gravel as it does to road. In some ways, gravel makes the case even more obvious: high speeds, loose surfaces, rocks, technical descents, unpredictable terrain, and very little between the rider and the ground when something goes wrong.
So yes, PROJECT 001 can absolutely be raced in gravel today, and I think gravel is one of the most natural applications for what we’ve built.
What truly sets the suit apart is its comprehensive coverage and rigorous certification.
The back protector meets EN 1621-2:2014 Level 1 requirements. The shoulder and hip protectors meet EN 1621-1:2012 Level 1 requirements. The certification applies to the D3O® protectors themselves rather than the suit as a whole.
Completely Modular Design
One of the highlights of Project 001 is its modular adaptability. Because crash protection isn’t a one-size-fits-all requirement for every single ride, every single D3O protector can be quickly inserted or removed.
Heading into a high-stakes, fast-paced local crit or a tight circuit race? Run full protection across your back, shoulders, and hips. Taking on a mountain time trial or pushing for a PR up a steep climb? Pull all the pads in seconds, leaving behind a featherweight, aerodynamic speed suit built to compete at the highest level.
There are no batteries, no air canisters, and no complex deployment sensors — just mechanical smart-material protection ready to go whenever you zip up.
Key Specifications & Availability
- Protector Ratings: D3O CE Level 1 certified back (EN 1621-2:2014), shoulder, and hip (EN 1621-1:2012).
- Modularity: Fully removable pads for back, shoulders, and hips.
- Fit Options: Available in dedicated Men’s and Women’s cuts.
- Pricing: $369 USD.
- Availability: Limited pre-order run with estimated delivery within 60 days of order.
Scicon Aeroshade 2.0 Titanium 5 Tour Limited Edition
500 individually numbered commemorative pieces
Tadej Pogačar has claimed his fifth Tour de France title, cementing his place among the greatest riders in the history of cycling. Once again, he achieved this remarkable feat wearing Scicon Sports eyewear.
To celebrate this historic milestone, Scicon Sports introduces the Scion Aeroshade 2.0 Titanium 5 Tour Limited Edition, a limited edition of just 500 individually numbered pieces. This special edition of eyewear is dedicated to an achievement that has defined a generation of professional cycling.
Heinrich Dannhauser, CEO of Scicon Sports, sez: “Standing alongside Tadej throughout each of these five victories has been an honour that goes far beyond technical sponsorship. With this special edition, we wanted to create a piece of history—not simply tell its story.”
A Journey That Began in 2020
The commemorative presentation case celebrates Tadej Pogačar’s extraordinary series of five Tour de France victories with UAE Team Emirates, a journey that began in 2020 and as been written, stage by stage, into the history of cycling. Scicon Sports is proud to have played its part in this legendary achievement, edition after edition.
Engraved on the frame of the Aeroshade 2.0 Titanium 5 Tour are the names of the UAE Team Emirates riders who supported Tadej Pogačar on his road to victory, a permanent tribute to the teamwork that Tadej himself has always recognized as the foundation of every individual success. The lens features the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, alongside the number 5 , celebrating his fifth Tour de France title.
Technology and Design Built for a Legend
The Aeroshade 2.0 Titanium retains the uncompromising technical DNA that has made it an icon among cyclists around the world. Its modern, angular and streamlined silhouette delivers a bold, highly aerodynamic aesthetic. Adjustable medical-grade titanium temples provide exceptional stability and a secure fit, further refined by the Horizon Adapt
height-adjustment system. The fully adjustable FlexiFit nose pad adapts comfortably to every face shape.
Each pair is presented in a durable protective case secured with a combination lock and includes both a photochromic replacement lens and a gradient replacement lens, ensuring optimal vision across changing light conditions. Completing the package are a lens cleaning kit and a dedicated multi-tool.
With only 500 individually numbered pieces available worldwide, the Aeroshade 2.0 Titanium 5 Tour is more than a high-performance cycling sunglass. It is a genuine collector’s piece, created for those who witnessed this extraordinary achievement and want to own an authentic part of cycling history.
Technical Specifications
- Medical-grade titanium temples
- Panorama Arch frame design
- Horizon Adapt height-adjustable nose bridge
- Interchangeable shield len
- Fully adjustable FlexiFit 2.0 nose pad
- Tactigrip temple tips with flexible, adjustable temples
- Perimeter laser-etched lens
- Compatible with AC028 Optical Insert
- Includes photochromic and gradient replacement lens
Pricing and Availability
Scion has set the retail pricing at 500,00€ / US$580.00. For full details and direct purchase, head over to sciconsports.com. With only 500 available worldwide, these are sure to sell out quickly.
Silca Re-Engineers Drip Wax with Super Secret 2.0
World Tour proven: faster, cleaner, and rain-proof
When Silca introduced the original Super Secret Chain Lube six years ago, it fundamentally shifted how riders viewed drip lubricants. By bringing near-hot-wax efficiency to a simple squeeze bottle, it quickly became the go-to top-off for waxed chains. But Silca founder Josh Poertner and his engineering team weren’t content resting on those early accolades.
To build the next evolution, Silca partnered with Purdue University to develop a custom, ultra-precise chain friction testing rig, while enlisting WorldTour mechanics and performance engineers from Team Visma–Lease a Bike for real-world field validation. The result is Super Secret 2.0—a complete chemical overhaul designed to bridge the gap between drip convenience and hot-wax performance.
Key Technical Upgrades
The primary limitation of first-generation drip waxes was their performance in severe weather. The original formula utilized a water-based carrier fluid to suspend its wax particles—meaning heavy rain or standing water could reactivate that carrier and accelerate wash-off. Also, the performance of a wax lubricant is directly related to its ability to penetrate the chain and adhere to the surfaces it is intended to lubricate.
Super Secret 2.0 aims tackles this problem with three core engineering changes:
- Upgraded Carrier: Replaced the water-based suspension with a new wax-based carrier fluid that won’t reactivate in rain or standing water, yielding a 2x to 3x increase in wet-weather durability.
- Micro-Sized Wax Particles: By shrinking the wax particle dimensions, Silca packed a significantly higher density of solid wax into every milliliter of liquid. This allows deep penetration into the tight clearances of inner chain plates and rollers before setting into a firm protective matrix.
- Stacked Fullerene Platelet Structure: Upgraded the friction modifier from standard tungsten disulfide (WS2) to advanced stacked fullerene platelets, optimizing the micro-imperfections on the chain’s steel surface for lower mechanical drag.
Silca has provided a 12 minute video, narrated by Josh Poertner, introducing Super Secret 2.0 that breaks down everything you need to know…
Real-World Performance & Marginal Gains
Silca states the chemical overhaul translates to tangible numbers out on the road and trail, and Team Visma-Lease a Bike seem to confirm it:
Dirk Van De Ven, Team Visma–Lease a Bike Performance Specialist, sez: “From our perspective, the main differences are that the new drip wax adheres better to the chain, performs better in wet conditions, and gets much less dirty.”
- Hot-Wax Efficiency: Cuts friction down to levels virtually indistinguishable from Silca’s Secret Chain Blend hot melt wax, offering up to 7 watts saved compared to traditional oil lubricants.
- Faster Break-In: Reaches peak efficiency after just 15–20 minutes of riding (compared to ~45 minutes for traditional hot-melt treatments).
- Extended Service Intervals: Expect 350–400 km (220–250 miles) of quiet, ultra-clean operation per application under dry conditions.
- Ecosystem Compatibility: Fully cross-compatible with Silca’s hot-wax lineup, as well as their StripChip, EnduranceChip, and SpeedChip drivetrain modifiers.
Availability & Pricing
- Volume: 100 ml (3.4 oz) bottle.
- Application: Drip-on, require 4+ hours to cure before riding.
- MSRP: $25 USD (Silca maintained original 1.0 pricing).
- Availability: Available now at Silca.cc.
Cordalock
Heavy-Duty, Whole-Bike Protection for the Daily Commute
Having your bike stolen sucks. Full stop. Spanish startup Corda introduced Cordalock as a mechanical, single-key security system built to replace the hassle of juggling multiple heavy-duty locks. Designed specifically for high-risk urban environments, its modular armored loop system cinches down around your frame, both wheels, and even your saddle to deliver comprehensive physical security without leaving vulnerable components exposed.
Let’s get one thing clear: this is not a lightweight, Hiplok-style solution for a quick coffee shop stop. It’s built for heavy-duty protection – and I backed the campaign personally. Even though I don’t commute on a bike every day anymore, having a rock-solid locking solution in your arsenal is essential for when you do need to lock up in public. Having a bike stolen is genuinely one of the worst, most gut-wrenching experiences a cyclist can endure, making serious peace of mind worth every ounce.
Heavy-Duty Engineering
At 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs) for the core unit, Cordalock trades lightweight convenience for serious physical mass. At the center sits a heavy-duty central locking hub and tensioning dial. Thick, flexible arms thread around your bike components, looping back through secure end-hasps. Once routed, a quick turn of the central cap cinches all slack out of the system, clamping the hasps down tight before you lock the mechanism with the key.
The internal engineering matches its heavy-duty weight class: underneath a protective, weatherproof textile sleeve lies a braided stainless steel core surrounded by overlapping, hardened steel armor rings. Shear tests showed resistance between 20 to 38 kN of force, and the unique ring architecture actually jammed 350W battery-powered angle grinders during testing. Best of all, the loops function independently—meaning if a thief manages to cut one segment, the rest of the loops remain locked tight.
Choose Your Setup: 2-in-1 vs. 3-in-1
Corda is currently “kickstarting” two distinct configurations built around total bike security:
The 2-in-1 Model (Frame + Both Wheels)
- What It Secures: Designed with a dual-loop layout. One loop wraps your frame, rear wheel, and the bike rack or post, while the second loop extends down to capture your front wheel.
- Weight: 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs).
- Best For: Urban commuters and city cyclists who need comprehensive frame-and-wheel coverage wrapped into a single locking point.
The 3-in-1 Model (Frame + Both Wheels + Saddle)
- What It Secures: Takes the core 2-in-1 system and integrates an additional dedicated branch cable. This third line runs up through your saddle rails, protecting your seat and seatpost from theft without needing an extra accessory lock.
- Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs) – saddle module +700 g
- Best For: High-value e-bikes, urban cargo setups, or bikes equipped with expensive dropper posts and saddles parked outside all day.
Kickstarter Pricing & Details
Early-Bird Backer Pricing:
- 2-in-1 Model: Starts around €157 (~$180 USD).
- 3-in-1 Model: Starts around €183 (~$209 USD) (Super Early Bird is SOLD OUT)
Available in 5 colorways and 2 cable lengths to fit different frame sizes. Includes a frame mount clip and carry pouch. As of press time, the campaign is still live, with a closing date of August 30, 2026. The campaign is estimating delivery in December 2026.
Kembag Active Cooling Pack
Beat the heat, ride longer
Watching the peloton deal with extreme heat at the Tour de France this year made one thing clear: active cooling is now a core part of cycling performance. While WorldTour teams rely on support cars for ice socks and specialized cooling vests, everyday riders pushing through summer heat waves are usually left with few options.
Kembag offers an accessible active-cooling solution designed for riders looking to maintain training quality when temperatures rise.
What Is Kembag?
Kembag is a lightweight cooling pack—weighing just 29 grams—engineered to rest flush against your upper back under your jersey or bib straps. Instead of using separate chest straps or bulkier cooling vests, Kembag provides a streamlined ice-reservoir system focused on core temperature management.
Key Features
- Strapless Fit: Slips directly under your jersey, resting along your spine without restricting breathing or shoulder movement.
- 1.1-Liter Capacity: Uses a sealable zip insert to hold up to 1.1 liters of ice, delivering steady cooling to your back.
- Moisture-Control Mesh: Constructed from breathable mesh that distributes temperature evenly, protecting skin from direct ice contact while managing melt water.
- Low Profile: Sits flat against the body to maintain your jersey’s standard fit and aerodynamics.
First Look Coming Soon
We have a Kembag unit on the way to test in the heat. Stay tuned for a full, hands-on review to evaluate comfort, ice longevity, and practical temperature management out on the road.
Pricing & Availability
The Kembag MSRP is $39.99 USD. It is available in Blue or White. It ships with a mesh outer pack and reusable zip ice insert. For full details and to purchase your own active cooling please visit kembag.com.
Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews. Or, call us out if you feel the need!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you consult the manufacturers if you have any questions about the products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.
The post Gear Break: July End – Shimano Dura-Ace Wheels, L.A.P. Project 001, Scion Aeroshade 2.0 Ti 5 Tour LE, Silca Super Secret 2.0, Cordalock, Kembag appeared first on PezCycling News.
