5 years after launching the first electronic shifting solution for road bikes, and hot on the heels of the all-new XTR groupset launched earlier this spring, Shimano today introduces XTR Di2 - the first mountain bike specific, commercially available electronic shifting solution in the world.
Making use of some of the components and technologies introduced on the new mechanical XTR group 2 months ago, Di2 electronic shifting means to add a new dimension of intuitive control and precision that Shimano says will really bring out the very best in the new platform. We got to check out some of the final prototypes a couple of months ago, and we came away quite impressed with how the system operates.
First of all, the system is VERY fast and accurate. One tap of the lever and it shifts to the perfect spot - it's a bit hard to adapt to at first, since we're so used to working with our shift levers to create the perfect amount of cable tension for each shift, instead here you just sort of push a button. The front derailleur's auto-align feature works great and kept things noise-free in any gear, not to mention making setup much easier (no cable tension to worry about etc).
The second feature that impressed us is Synchronized Shift. For 2x or even 3x set-ups, Synchonized Shift can be programmed to keep the “ideal” gear rolling at all times, meaning that the system deals with when to shift between chainrings. This also allows both derailleurs to be controlled by a single shifter on the handlebars, operating the gears sequentially, if the rider so chooses:
Whilst we have yet to put in the saddle time to verify all this on a production system, Shimano says riders should be able to get 300-400 miles of “normal” riding in between charges, possibly quite a bit more. The battery that powers the whole system can be mounted on bottle cage bosses or integrated in the frame directly (each component is then connected via cables, XTR Di2 is not a wireless system). The new system was reportedly ridden during the BC bike race on a single charge through mud, water, and dirt with no issues detected.
At this time we don't have the final MSRP available, but Shimano quoted the price as about "40% more than XTR". That is obviously a hefty premium, but you do get a whole lot of very new technology for your money. Whether or not electronic shifting brings enough benefits to warrant the present price tag is something each rider will have to decide for themselves. Weight-wise, the Di2 version adds a few grams in components, but makes up for it with a weight reduction in cables, putting the overall total system weight on par with the mechanical version:
Front derailleur (FD-M9070 D-type) : 115 grams
Rear derailleur (RD-M9050-GS) : 289 grams
System display (SC-M9050) : 30 grams
Shift switch (SW-M9050) : 64 grams
Front Derailleur = Di2 is 5 grams lighter
Rear Derailleur = Di2 is 68 grams heavier
Shifters = Di2 is 36 grams lighter (if you just use 1 it is 136 grams lighter)
Battery = 51 grams (extra item on Di2)
Display Unit = 30 grams (extra item on Di2)
For the 2x setup with only a right hand shifter (synchro mode) XTR Di2 has the same total weight as mechanical XTR (there is a 47 gram difference on components, but as stated previously the wires are lighter than cables).
XTR Di2 will be available as of Q4 2014 (Oct-Dec). We'll bring you our detailed ride impressions once we're able to hit the trails with the new system, in the meantime, satisfy your inner gear geek with the teaser and the full product details below:
OSAKA, Japan (May 31, 2014) – Following over half a decade of proven Di2 electronic shifting systems, Shimano introduces XTR M9050 Di2, the world’s first production electronic mountain bike shifting system. An electronic shifting option for Shimano’s new 11-speed XTR M9000 mechanical mountain bike components, XTR Di2 redefines how mountain bikers can control and personalize the way they ride through the proven Di2 digital platform.
Shimano XTR M9050 Di2 electronic shifting integrates with XTR M9000 mechanical components in a variety of Race or Trail “Rider Tuned” 1x, 2x, or 3x drivetrain configurations. The new 11-speed XTR M9000 drivetrain introduces Rhythm Step gearing which provides range and ensures rhythm, no matter the rider or terrain. With the additional efficiency, new shifting options and personalization of the digital Di2 system, riders now can control their ride like never before.
The XTR Di2 Ride Experience
XTR M9050 Di2 has undergone over 20,000 kilometres of testing to ultimately refine how precision and logic can deliver a completely new mountain bike ride experience. Di2 digital shifting is seamless, instantaneous and can be custom tailored for any rider. Shifting becomes a simple rider reflex, allowing riders to place their attention where it belongs – on the trail ahead. Totally new ergonomics reduce hand movement and improve control, further boosting rider confidence.
The possibilities with Shimano Di2
Over half a decade of experience in electronic shifting components have culminated with the introduction of Shimano’s most advanced Di2 system ever. XTR M9050 Di2 features the programmable, upgradeable and expandable attributes of Shimano’s latest Di2 shifting systems, which now debuts intuitive shifting control. Shimano’s E-tube wiring and electronics make expanding Di2 shifting systems easy and also enable riders to custom program and upgrade the system through a computer software interface. Riders can program and control the shift patterns for single or multi-shift modes, the speed of those shifts and the actions for each shifter and button. With XTR Di2, Shimano Synchronized Shift is also custom programmed through the Di2 program software, allowing front and rear shifts using a single shifter.
Shimano Synchronized Shift: two derailleurs, one shifter
The new Shimano Synchronized Shift function and programmable shift mapping allows riders to change their focus from the physical effort of shifting to the trail ahead. A programmable option with XTR Di2 M9050, Shimano Synchronized Shift creates an intuitive shifting experience on the bike through customizable synchronized front and rear shifting via a single FIREBOLT shifter.
XTR FIREBOLT shifter: seamless control and instant response
The new, easy-to-use XTR Di2 FIREBOLT shifters make shifting a simple rider reflex and deliver customizable ergonomics that improve bike control. Shimano’s FIREBOLT customizable shift button placement is determined entirely by human ergonomics, not by the needs of a mechanical mechanism. FIREBOLT shift levers are now exactly where thumbs naturally rest, allowing riders to put more grip on the handlebar and control the ride with more confidence – especially in rough conditions.
XTR RD-M9050: Unrivaled shift performance and stability
Shimano’s first mountain bike specific Di2 rear derailleur is also its most technologically advanced. Introducing Shimano Shadow RD + stabilization to Di2, the RD-M9050 couples unrivaled chain control that aggressive riders have come to love with shift performance that doesn’t degrade over time. Whether cross country or trail riders run a 1x, 2x or 3x drivetrain, the ultra narrow profile helps protect the drivetrain in tight trail sections. The refined rear derailleur geometry further improves the performance stability while Shimano Synchronized Shift enables system communication with the front derailleur.
FD-M9050: powerful, Di2-optimized front shifting
Long regarded as the most notable feature of Shimano Di2 shifting, the front derailleur performance remains the best in the industry, now with the additional capabilities of Shimano Synchronized Shift. With XTR M9050 Di2, front shifts require the same light effort as a rear Di2 shift, reducing effort and freeing up the rider to focus on the trail. The FD-M9050 uses computer controlled auto trim as the chain moves up and down the cassette to keep the drivetrain running smoothly. Shimano Synchronized Shift compatibility allows a single shifter to control both front and rear shifting.
SC-M9050 Display Unit: system status at a glance
Digital Di2 E-tube electronics allow the inclusion of the handlebar mounted SC-M9050 Display Unit for monitoring important Di2 data: gear selection, battery level and shift mode. The SC-M9050 not only provides data, but also is the convenient interface where riders will plug in and charge the system from the handlebar – an especially handy virtue when running an internal battery. The expandable E-tube platform also means that integration with electric-controlled suspension from FOX is a reality.
E-tube electronics connect the system
Shimano’s XTR M9050 shifting system uses the same E-tube platform introduced with road Di2 groups that is programmable, customizable and allows for expansion and further system integration. Wires are offered in a wide variety of lengths for bikes of all sizes and shapes and cable routing options will connect the various junction points.
Unlike traditional cables and housing, wires are not affected by trail and weather conditions, providing consistent performance in this waterproof system.
For more information, head on over to: bike.shimano.com.
1: Why does Shimano choose for a 11-40 CS to work with a single chainring setup? The range is too small.
Shimano’s philosophy for single FC is that it is developed for dedicated use on specific courses. It doesn’t matter if you choose Enduro or XC racing even if you choose a wider range CS it can never cover the range of 2x or 3x. For all-round purpose it is better to choose 2x or 3x. We support all riders for a long time and want to let all riders enjoy latest technology. This also results in longer durability because you will use the CS more efficient. Next to that we choose to have all gear steps below 15% so cadence change is never really big. This allows the rider to have more control in technical sections.
2. Can I modify the settings by myself or should I go to a dealer?
With your battery charger for the internal battery you can connect the system to your computer and you can change all settings for the shifter, synchro mode or multishift setting. For error check or diagnostics you should visit your dealer.
3. What happens if I crash on my RD is there a saver mode?
Yes there is a saver mode on the RD like we have on our Road components. Just push the button on the SC for 3 seconds and reset into the recovery mode.
4. What’s the weight difference compared to mechanical?
It depends on your exact setup. Exact weights for the most common components are:
Front derailleur (FD-M9070 D-type) : 115 grams
Rear derailleur (RD-M9050-GS) : 289 grams
System display (SC-M9050) : 30 grams
Shift switch (SW-M9050) : 64 grams
FD = M9050 is 5 grams lighter
RD = M9050 is 68 grams heavier
SL = M9050 is 36 grams lighter (if you just use 1 it is 136 grams lighter)
BT = 51 grams (extra item)
SC = 30 grams (extra item)
For the 2x setup with only a right hand shifter (synchro mode) M9050 has the same total weight as M9000 (there is a 47 gram difference on components, but the wires are lighter than cables).
5. I am afraid of damaging the RD, which is expensive?
In case of a crash there is a saver mode inside the RD this helps to protect the RD a bit. Other than that the chance of breaking an RD is similar to mechanical.
6. Is the FOX system fully integrated?
Yes it’s even adjustable and compatible with the e-tube software.
7. It will most probably be super expensive?
It will be more expensive than XTR M9000 mechanical however it also adds a lot of features and advantages. It’s super easy to modify to your personal preferences. Price difference will be similar to the difference between mechanical Dura Ace and Di2 Dura Ace. This means the price of Di2 is approximately 40% more than mechanical (2x full setup).
8. When can we expect Di2 on XT?
So far we cannot say anything about that.
9. When is XTR Di2 available?
It will be available from the last quarter of 2014
10. SRAM announced they will enter the market for electronic shifting, what do you think?
We appreciate that they acknowledge that our direction for electronic shifting is the right one. This also challenges us to keep our focus on new developments.
11. What about wireless?
We present XTR Di2. What the future will bring regarding new products (even competitors’) time will tell.
dustboy
5/31/2014 8:12 AM
Logic
5/31/2014 7:53 AM
Too much electronics. This is a bicycle. You ride a bicycle because you like riding a bicycle. This is overkill. A very costly overkill and like another reader stated, it's a fix for something that isn't broken.
If standard shifting is too hard for you or you think electronic shifting is better, ditch the pedal power and move to automobiles. they shift for you (most of them) AND have air conditioning.
TRex
5/31/2014 7:25 AM
groghunter
5/30/2014 2:43 PM
If the echo chamber here was concerned at all, let me re-assure you: the rest of the internet agrees that "'lectricity is teh debil!" and that "Shimano hates me personally, and made this specifically to offend me."
I also heard that the battery only lasts one shift, and that the LCD "sucks out your soul."
SomeGuy
5/30/2014 1:30 PM
Marc
5/30/2014 11:00 AM
I really can't understand all you haters.. I work at a bike shop and have frequent dealings with electronic groupsets on road bikes and can say it trumps the mechanical groups absolutely. The battery lasts like they say, the shifting is so smooth you can change gear while cranking it up a hill and it won't skip a beat. It's so reliable it's actually bad for us as customers will only come in once a year to have the bike serviced.
The only reason people are hating is because of the price.. Get over it. Cycling is expensive.
Nicholast
5/30/2014 1:34 PM
It's not the price. I don't care how much it costs because I'll still buy what I can afford. There are two big reasons why I am a "hater": it retains the front derailleur and it is a solution for something that is not broken.
I despise front derailleurs and see their existence as the main obstacle preventing stronger and lighter frames with better geometry. As long as frame manufacturers have to design around the front derailleur, frames will always have compromises in strength, weight, and/or dimensions. The bearing that receives the highest load is the drive-side main pivot bearing, which has to be moved inward to accommodate the FD, which means that area has to be reinforced to accommodate the less than ideal bearing position. Additionally, chain stays have to be made longer to ensure the tire clears the FD.
Secondly, modern cable shifters work very well and are pretty dang reliable. They work without a secondary energy source, in horrible conditions, and are serviceable trail-side with commonly found parts that cost less than a pack of gum (e.g. shifter cables). The rear derailleur is much more of an Achilles' heel than cable shifters, but this system tries to reinvent the robust part (shifter) and does nothing to improve the vulnerable part (rear derailleur). Significant money and R&D time spent for what? So they can release a "new" technology and gain back some credibility for being a drivetrain technology leader because their biggest competitor keeps taking their market share in that category year after year?
It's cool, no doubt, but so are a lot of ideas that don't really fix anything. That's why I'm a "hater."
xyian
5/30/2014 10:41 AM
Varaxis
5/30/2014 10:31 AM
Synchro shift reminds me of that one grip shifter that shifted both front and rear derailleurs, which showed up at Interbike or Sea otter a few years ago. This syncro shift turns that 3x11 into a 11+3 or 2x11 into 11+2, for a total of 14 or 13 gears. Goes to show that you just need a tiny bit of extra range on each end and SRAM XX1 delivers just that, and offers designers the path to efficiently design for a single ring only.
I still want a good affordable 1x system. Perhaps if SRAM made their cassette for $100 or less... at this point, I'll be waiting to buy a new bike with it, or just "upgrade" my 10spd with an E13 ex cog, paired with RaceFace narrow wide ring, if I'm too impatient.
funkyfunpuff
5/30/2014 10:02 AM
Shiiiit, keep this away from my bike(s).
R&D, please spend more time trying to replace the derailleur with something better, not making it more $$$.
Nicholast
5/30/2014 9:54 AM
megatryn
5/31/2014 4:11 AM
I did. Still do.
If it's anything near as good as it is on roadbikes it's gonna be killer. I'm riding 1x10 now and never wished for more, so 1x11 with supersmooth shifting and no wires to fuck up would be niceness. (Yes, I'm a bike mechaninc and I know how to adjust a derraileur, I just don't like to.)
VTsession
5/30/2014 9:47 AM
Yeah this looks cool on a bike shop floor but its not going to be cool when you drop $2k on a drivetrain and the battery dies when a 2 hour ride turns in 3.
The MSRP isn't out but we all know the price will be insanely high. This is the new standard of $1500 drivetrains, $3k frames and $1000 forks? When will manufacturers starts making innovative products for real world users?
SomeGuy
5/30/2014 1:32 PM
Mr. P
5/30/2014 9:26 AM
This is cool and all, but do we really need this extra complication? And for what benefit? Shifting is so good these days, I rarely miss a shift. And races aren't won or lost on the speed of a shift.
I love you Shimano for your great shifty bits. But batteries and motors and displays... I'd rather they stay out of the woods on my rides.
P
bturman
5/30/2014 12:42 PM
SomeGuy
5/30/2014 1:36 PM
megatryn
5/31/2014 4:19 AM
davikidd
5/30/2014 8:01 AM