Shimano Ultegra 6700 tubeless wheels

In the usual way, Ultegra is the beneficiary of technology handed down from Dura-Ace products. In this case, the WH-6700 Ultegra wheels share many features with the Dura-Ace WH-7850 carbon laminates – wheels we’ve previously awarded top marks.

The rim profile is the same, but without the use of carbon the overall price is greatly reduced to almost half that of the Dura-Ace. The 6700 wheels use straight-pull spoking, with 16 radial front and 20 two-crossed rear lacing, plus asymmetric spoke-hole drilling to reduce rear wheel dish and increase lateral stiffness.

All this translates into wheels that ride exceptionally well. There is a sensation of stiffness in these wheels that can be likened to riding deep sections.

Acceleration is good, with barely any noticeable lateral flex, but the combination of alloy rim and steel spokes tempers the harshness, and makes them a good all-rounder at a reasonable 1,651g. Add the tubeless compatibility element, and it’s a wheelset with a lot going for it.

For ultimate durability, we’d prefer sealed cartridge bearings, as with standard cup and cone bearings any corrosion not dealt with immediately can spell the end for hubs, but it’s not a deal breaker.