Shimano Ultegra Di2 Coming In October
- By Aaron Hersh
- Published Jun 20, 2011
Cheaper and heavier version based on Shimano’s incredible Dura-Ace Di2 component.
Shimano is releasing Ultegra Di2 in October 2011. The component company, which just celebrated its 90th anniversary, is releasing Ultegra-level electronic shifters, front and rear derailleurs, an electric cable junction and battery later this fall. The Shimano Di2 Ultegra 6770 kit will be completed with standard mechanical Ultegra crankset, brake calipers, cassette and chain.
Shimano calls the 2012 Ultegra Di2 component group the “most advanced shifting system ever,” which begs the question: What are the differences between Dura-Ace Di2 and Ultegra Di2.
Ultegra Di2 electric cables require only two core wires while Dura-Ace Di2 needs four. The Ultegra connectors are 42% smaller in diameter and will be available in different lengths to streamline the connections.
Although the differences in shifter and derailleur performance are not yet clear, the biggest obstacle preventing cyclists from riding Shimano’s outstanding Dura-Ace Di2 kit has been price. Ultegra Di2 is substantially cheaper, although still pricey.
The Ultegra Di2 components and all the other electronic necessities total $1,595, costing dramatically less than the corresponding Dura-Ace Di2 components.
The biggest question about Ultegra Di2 will be whether it truly lives up to the shift performance, reliability and durability of Dura-Ace Di2 and fulfills Shimano’s claim that Ultegra Di2 is the “most advanced shifting system ever.” We have not yet ridden Ultegra Di2, but will feature a full report in a future issue of Triathlete magazine and tell you if we think it matches Shimano’s lofty claim.
Click through to get a look at every Shimano Ultegrea Di2 component and their prices.
Shifters: ST-6770 Dual Control Levers - $444.99
The 313-gram shifters (58g heavier than Dura-Ace Di2) are compatible with double crank sets and feature shift quality Shimano describes as “intuitive… similar to mechanical Ultegra.” They boast reach adjustment, which allows the distance to the shift and brake levers to be tuned to fit the rider’s hand size.
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Aaron Hersh
Aaron Hersh is the Senior Tech Editor of Triathlete magazine. Aaron writes a column every Thursday for Triathlete.com called "Ask Aaron". To submit a question, write Aaron at Askaaron@competitorgroup.com.