SHIMANO H-731 Dura Ace High Flange Hole Road Hubset 36 120MM

( Brand: Shimano ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: H-731 ), ( Part Type: Flange ), ( Compatible Brand: For Shimano ), ( Number Of Spoke Holes: 36 Hole ), ( Attachment Style: Quick Release ), ( Color: Silver ), ( Set Includes: Hubs ), ( Item Width: 120 Mm )

Review SHIMANO Beautiful Vintage Dura Ace 1st Gen High Flange 36 Hole Road Hubset 120mm

The **Shimano H-731 Dura-Ace Gen High-Flange 36-Hole Road Hubset (120mm)** represents the pinnacle of Shimano s high-performance road hub technology, engineered for racers and serious cyclists who demand precision, durability, and uncompromising efficiency. This hubset is a cornerstone of Shimano s Dura-Ace lineup, designed to deliver seamless power transfer, minimal rotational weight, and exceptional durability qualities that are critical for competitive cycling. The **Gen High-Flange** design is a refined evolution of Shimano s hub architecture, featuring a deeper flange profile that enhances stiffness and reduces flex under heavy loads, ensuring that every pedal stroke translates directly into forward motion without energy loss. The **36-hole axle** is a hallmark of modern road hubs, offering a robust mounting interface that accommodates a wide range of wheel-building options, from lightweight carbon rims to high-volume tires, while maintaining optimal lateral rigidity. The **120mm axle width** strikes a balance between stability and compatibility, providing ample clearance for most road frames while still allowing for the use of wider tires an advantage for riders who prioritize comfort and traction without sacrificing performance.

At the heart of this hubset is Shimano s **Dura-Ace Gen** bearing system, which combines **ceramic hybrid bearings** with a **sealed cartridge design** to minimize friction, reduce maintenance requirements, and extend the lifespan of the hub. The **high-flange construction** not only improves stiffness but also optimizes the distribution of forces, reducing stress on the axle and bearings, which is particularly beneficial for aggressive climbers or sprinters who subject their wheels to extreme loads. The **freehub body** is machined from high-grade aluminum, featuring a **11-speed compatible** design with a smooth, precise engagement mechanism that ensures smooth, consistent shifting even under heavy acceleration. The **quick-release mechanism** is a reliable, durable component, built to withstand frequent use without compromising security, making it ideal for riders who frequently swap wheels or transport their bikes.

For those seeking the ultimate in performance, the **H-731** is available in both **left and right-hand versions**, allowing for a complete wheel setup with matched components. The **carbon fiber spokes** (when paired with compatible rims) further reduce rotational weight, contributing to faster acceleration and more efficient cornering. The hubset s **sealed cartridge bearings** eliminate the need for frequent greasing, while the **high-quality seals** protect against dust and moisture, ensuring longevity even in harsh riding conditions. Whether used in a lightweight, high-performance road wheel or a more robust, all-around setup, the **Shimano H-731 Dura-Ace Gen High-Flange 36-Hole Hubset (120mm)** delivers the reliability, precision, and speed that serious cyclists demand making it a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on performance.

The **Shimano H-731 Dura-Ace 120mm High-Flange Hubset (36-hole)** is a premium road hubset designed for high-performance racing and endurance riding. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros**

1. **Superior Performance and Speed**

The H-731 is one of Shimano s fastest and most efficient road hubsets, featuring a **high-flange design** optimized for aerodynamics and power transfer. The **120mm axle width** (standard for modern road frames) ensures stability at high speeds, reducing drag and improving efficiency. This makes it ideal for racers, time trialists, and riders seeking maximum speed.

2. **Lightweight Construction**

The hubset is built with **carbon-reinforced aluminum** and **high-strength steel** components, keeping weight to a minimum while maintaining rigidity. This contributes to better acceleration and handling, particularly in aggressive riding conditions.

3. **Durability and Reliability**

As a **Dura-Ace** component, the H-731 is engineered for durability, with reinforced bearings, seals, and a robust axle design. It is built to withstand the stresses of high-speed riding, aggressive cornering, and frequent use in competitive settings. Shimano s reputation for reliability in premium groupsets extends to this hubset.

4. **Compatibility with High-End Components**

The **36-hole axle pattern** (now largely obsolete but still found on some older or high-end frames) is compatible with a wide range of **Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and even some high-end carbon frames** from brands like Canyon, Specialized, and Trek. While newer frames typically use **12mm or 142mm axles**, the H-731 can still be adapted with spacers or conversion kits for modern frames.

5. **Precision Engineering and Tuning**

Shimano s **high-flange design** reduces lateral play, improving pedal efficiency and reducing energy loss. The **sealed cartridge bearings** (in the wheel version) or **high-performance journal bearings** (in the freewheel version) ensure smooth rotation with minimal friction, even under heavy loads.

6. **Aesthetic Appeal**

The **Dura-Ace branding** and sleek design make this hubset a desirable choice for riders who prioritize both performance and visual appeal. It pairs well with other high-end Shimano components, creating a cohesive and premium setup.

7. **Long-Term Value**

While the **36-hole pattern is outdated**, the hubset itself remains highly durable and can be repurposed or adapted for modern use. If maintained properly, it can last for **thousands of miles**, making it a cost-effective investment for serious riders.

---

### **Cons**

1. **Obsolete Axle Pattern (36-Hole)**

- **Limited frame compatibility**: You ll need a frame with a 36-hole dropout (common on older or high-end carbon frames from brands like Canyon, Specialized, or Trek).

- **Adaptation required**: If you want to use it on a modern frame, you ll need **spacers, adapters, or a full conversion kit**, which can be cumbersome and may not be worth the hassle for casual riders.

- **Resale challenges**: Finding a compatible frame or selling the hubset later may be difficult due to the niche axle pattern.

2. **Higher Cost**

As a **Dura-Ace component**, the H-731 is **more expensive** than alternatives from Shimano s lower-tier groupsets (e.g., Ultegra, 105) or even some third-party brands. The price reflects its performance and exclusivity, but it may not justify the cost for riders who don t prioritize racing-level efficiency.

3. **Weight Considerations (Relative to Modern Alternatives)**

While the H-731 is lightweight for its class, **modern carbon hubsets** (e.g., from SRAM, FSA, or even newer Shimano models) can be **even lighter** while offering better compatibility with current frame standards. If weight is a critical factor, some riders may prefer a **12mm or 142mm axle hubset** paired with a carbon wheel.

4. **Maintenance and Spare Parts**

- **Bearing replacement**: While the hubset is durable, **replacing bearings** (especially in the freewheel version) can be more complex than in modern cartridge-bearing systems.

- **Limited aftermarket support**: Since the 36-hole pattern is outdated, finding **replacement parts, adapters, or service centers** may be harder than for standard axle hubsets.

5. **Overkill for Casual or Endurance Riders**

If you re not a **racer or a speed-focused rider**, the **aerodynamic and high-performance benefits** of the H-731 may not be noticeable. For **endurance riding, gravel, or casual commuting**, a **lighter, more versatile hubset** (e.g., a Shimano 105 or SRAM Force) might be a better fit.

6. **Potential for Overuse Damage**

The **high-flange design** is optimized for **high-speed, low-torque applications**. If used in **aggressive climbing, heavy braking, or off-road conditions**, the hubset may experience **premature wear** due to increased stress on the bearings and axle.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Shimano H-731 Dura-Ace 120mm High-Flange Hubset** is one of the best road hubsets for **speed, precision, and durability**, but its **36-hole axle pattern** is a significant limitation in today s market. It is an **excellent choice** if:

- You have a **compatible frame** (36-hole dropout).

- You prioritize **maximum speed and efficiency** (racing, time trials).

- You re willing to **adapt it for modern frames** with spacers or adapters.

- You value **Shimano s reliability and premium build quality**.

- Need **modern axle compatibility** (12mm/142mm).

- Ride **casually, for endurance, or off-road**.

- Want **easier maintenance and spare parts availability**.

- Prefer **lighter or more versatile alternatives**,

then a **modern 12mm/142mm axle hubset** (e.g., Shimano Dura-Ace 1200, SRAM Force AXS, or FSA Omega) may be a better investment.

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### **Final Recommendation**

You already own a **36-hole frame** (e.g., Canyon, Specialized, Trek) and want the **fastest possible road hubset**.

You re a **racer or speed-focused rider** who prioritizes aerodynamics and power transfer.

You re willing to **adapt it for modern frames** (with spacers or adapters) and don t mind the extra effort.

You need **standard axle compatibility** (12mm/142mm) for a modern frame.

You ride **casually, for endurance, or in mixed terrain** where weight and versatility matter more.

You prefer **easier maintenance and wider spare parts availability**.

- For **modern frames (12mm/142mm)**: Shimano Dura-Ace 1200, SRAM Force AXS, or FSA Omega.

- For **endurance/versatility**: Shimano Ultegra or SRAM Rival.

- For **maximum speed (if 36-hole is unavoidable)**: Consider a **carbon wheel with the H-731 hub** for better weight savings.

If you re set on the H-731, ensure you have the right frame and are prepared for any adaptation challenges. Otherwise, a **modern axle hubset** will offer better long-term flexibility.

Details:

Beautiful Vintage Dura Ace 1st Gen High Flange 36 Hole Road Hubset 120mm, Heres a nice vintage gen Shimano Dura-Ace high flange hub set see pics. Hubs were thoroughly cleaned and re-packed with new Park grease. All races were clean - light wear.

part #: h731 price

• $119.99

specifications ribicycl:

• brand: Shimano
• mpn: H-731
• part type: Flange
• compatible brand: For Shimano
• number of spoke holes: 36 Hole
• attachment style: Quick Release
• color: Silver
• set includes: Hubs
• item width: 120 Mm

offer ribicycl:

• quantity: 1
• started: May 10, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0

payments ribicycl:

• other
• wallet: Paypal
• credit card: Discover

seller ribicycl:

• # reviews: 13104
• rating: 100.0%
• city: Las Vegas, Nevada

general ribicycl:

• Cycling > Bicycle Components Parts > Hubs
• condition: Used

shipping ribicycl:

• type: Fixed
• class: Standard
• carrier: USPS
• transit: 4-9 Days
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• cost: $10.00

returns ribicycl:

• policy: No Returns

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