The Shimano WH-7850-C24-CL [paid link] is a high-performance road bike wheelset known for its lightweight carbon-alloy construction, exceptional stiffness, and responsive ride quality. As part of Shimano’s Dura-Ace lineup, this wheelset offers a balance of speed and durability, making it a top choice for competitive and recreational cyclists alike.
Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are essential to ensure the WH-7850-C24-CL [paid link] delivers optimal performance over time. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to installing, adjusting, and maintaining these wheels to help riders get the most out of their investment.
Tools Required
- Tire levers
- Cassette lockring tool [paid link]
- Chain whip
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Allen wrenches [paid link] (5mm and 6mm)
- Grease or anti-seize compound
- Spoke tension meter
- Wheel truing stand
- Clean rag and isopropyl alcohol
Installing the WH-7850-C24-CL Wheelset
1. Preparing the Wheelset for Installation
Before installing the wheels, inspect the WH-7850-C24-CL [paid link] for any visible damage, especially the rim, hub, and spoke tension. Ensure the freehub body is clean and properly lubricated.
- Check the brake track for wear or contamination.
- Wipe down the rims with isopropyl alcohol to remove residue.
- Apply a small amount of grease to the freehub splines to prevent cassette seizure.
2. Installing the Cassette
- Place the cassette onto the freehub body, ensuring the largest cog is correctly aligned with the splines.
- Use a cassette lockring tool [paid link] and torque the lockring to 40Nm.
- Check for proper seating by spinning the cassette backward; it should rotate smoothly without resistance.
3. Mounting the Wheels on the Bike
- Insert the front wheel into the fork dropouts and ensure proper alignment.
- Tighten the quick-release skewer or thru-axle securely, making sure the wheel is centered.
- Repeat the process for the rear wheel, ensuring the cassette and derailleur are properly aligned.
- Spin the wheels and check for any rubbing against the brake pads.
Adjusting the WH-7850-C24-CL for Optimal Performance
1. Centering the Wheels in the Dropouts
Improper alignment can cause handling issues and brake rub. Ensure the wheel sits squarely in the dropouts before tightening the skewer.
2. Checking and Adjusting Spoke Tension
Spoke tension directly impacts ride quality and wheel durability.
- Use a spoke tension meter to check uniformity.
- If necessary, adjust the spoke nipples in small increments (¼ turn at a time) to correct tension imbalances.
- Check for radial and lateral trueness using a wheel truing stand.
3. Ensuring Proper Hub Bearing Adjustment
- The WH-7850-C24-CL uses cup-and-cone bearings, which should be checked regularly.
- If there is excessive play in the hub, tighten the cone nuts until there is no lateral movement but the wheel still spins freely.
- Over-tightening the bearings can cause premature wear.
Maintaining the WH-7850-C24-CL for Longevity
1. Cleaning and Lubricating the Bearings
- Remove the axle and bearings from the hub.
- Clean all parts with isopropyl alcohol or a degreaser.
- Apply high-quality bearing grease to the races and reassemble.
- Adjust the bearing preload to remove play without adding resistance.
2. Keeping the Brake Track in Top Condition
Since the WH-7850-C24-CL features an alloy brake track, regular maintenance is crucial.
- Use a clean rag and alcohol to remove brake pad residue.
- Inspect for excessive wear or grooving.
- Replace brake pads if they show uneven wear.
3. Truing and Re-Tensioning the Spokes
- Check spoke tension every 2,000 km to maintain even load distribution.
- If the wheel is out of true, use a spoke wrench to make minor adjustments.
- A well-maintained wheel will have consistent spoke tension and run straight.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
1. Wheel Not Sitting Properly in Dropouts
- Check for debris or dirt in the dropouts.
- Ensure the quick-release skewer is tightened evenly.
2. Brake Rub After Installation
- Verify that the wheel is centered in the dropouts.
- Adjust the brake caliper positioning if necessary.
3. Hub Bearings Feel Rough or Tight
- Disassemble the hub and clean the bearings.
- Check for signs of wear and regrease if needed.
4. Spoke Tension Feels Uneven
- Use a spoke tension meter to verify proper distribution.
- True the wheel using a truing stand.
Comparing the WH-7850-C24-CL to Other Dura-Ace Wheelsets
WH-7850-C24-CL vs. WH-9000-C24
| Feature | WH-7850-C24-CL | WH-9000-C24 |
|---|---|---|
| Rim Material | Carbon-Alloy | Carbon-Alloy |
| Weight (Pair) | ~1,385g | ~1,350g |
| Freehub Type | Shimano HG | Shimano HG |
| Brake Type | Rim Brake | Rim Brake |
| Spoke Pattern | Radial Front, 2x Rear | Radial Front, 2x Rear |
- The WH-9000-C24 is slightly lighter but shares the same carbon-alloy construction.
- The WH-7850-C24-CL remains a strong choice for those looking for durability with high performance.
Conclusion
Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Shimano WH-7850-C24-CL wheelset ensure maximum performance and longevity. Regular cleaning, correct spoke tension, and hub bearing care will keep these wheels running smoothly for years. By following the guidelines in this article, riders can maintain their wheelset’s efficiency, speed, and durability.