Shimano electrifies 2 x 12-speed GRX gravel components
Today, Shimano expanded its Gravel lineup by introducing an electronic shifting option to their 2 x 12-speed GRX gravel Gruppo. Here’s the lowdown on it all..
Shimano says this latest evolution of the Di2 Platform is a slightly redesigned system promising fast and precise shifting ,a cleaner cockpit, great ergonomics and more customization options.
The new suite of electronic Di2 parts features Dual Control Levers and a Shimano Shadow RD+ equipped rear derailleur, designed for riding, racing or adventures. There is backwards compatibility in that the new GRX RX825 Di2 shift levers, satellite switches, front derailleur, and rear derailleur marries with the existing RX820 crankset, cassette, and brakes.
Like with the RX820 mechanical components, you can tailor the gearing with either a 48/31-tooth chainring setup or opt to use the RX610 crank and its 46/30-tooth chainrings. Similarly, you can choose from an 11-36T or 11-34T cassette for a wide gear range with tight steps.
Like its 12-speed Dura-Ace, Ultegra and 105 Di2 siblings, the new GRX Di2 system is wired from the multi-port battery that supplies power to both front and rear derailleurs. The new Di2 system also allows for accessory shift buttons, another key advantage of electronic shifting. Plugging in one of Shimano’s satellite shifters, whether on the tops, drops, or on aero bars, allows you to consistently maintain your effort without the need to move your hands to shift. their hands. Additionally, these satellite switches can be assigned various functions including shifting of either derailleur, to control compatible lights, computers, or as a lap button during workouts.
Like on Shimano’s road 12-speed Di2 systems, the rear derailleur is also the communication hub of the drivetrain, communicating wirelessly with the shift levers, compatible cycle computers, and the brand’s E-Tube App. It also houses the system’s charge port and the multi-function button which allows you to easily check battery level, pair via Bluetooth, and enter adjustment mode for both derailleurs.
Introducing Shimano Front Shift Next
The launch of this new RX825 system also coincides with the debut of Shimano’s new Front Shift Next functionality. With this firmware update, you can now utilize Shimano’s E-Tube Project App to program any 12-speed Di2 button to shift the front derailleur to whichever chainring you are not currently using and then toggle back and forth using the same button. This new firmware is compatible not only with GRX RX825, but also with Shimano’s family of 12-speed road Di2 groups. The concept is designed to offer more intuitive shifting for less-experienced riders and quicker decision-making for veteran riders in the heat of competition.
Along with dramatically simplifying the gear-changing process, Shimano Front Shift Next can also free up other switches to handle tasks such as moving through multiple screens on a paired cycle computer, turning on and off compatible lights, or hitting the “lap” button on your computer so you can keep your hands securely in place, even during your hardest efforts. By all accounts everything looks very spicy. //