Wireless shifting on a gravel bike? Why not! With the 2024 GRX Di2 12x groupset, Shimano finally introduce their updated wireless gravel bike components. But what could they possibly have improved over the excellent predecessor? Optimised ergonomics, semi-wireless shifting and, of course, 12-speed cassettes promise to raise the 2024 GRX Di2 to a new level.Less than a year after the launch of the mechanical 12-speed GRX, Shimano introduce its wireless sibling, the new 2024 GRX Di2. As with Shimanos current road components, the gravel groupset relies on a single, wired battery, wireless shifters and a new control centre integrated into the rear derailleur. The rest of the Japanese brands latest gravel groupset is made up of components from the mechanical 12-speed GRX range, like the crankset and callipers.But theres an elephant in the room! For the time being, Shimano will not be offering a 1x version with wide-range MTB cassettes based on the mullet concept. Thats a pity, especially since 1x makes a ton of sense on a gravel bikes, leaving SRAM to dominate that part of the market.New cockpit with proven ergonomicsIf theres one thing Shimano GRX Di2 stands for, then its excellent ergonomics. We couldnt fault the previous iteration in this respect. Its no surprise that some roadies replaced their slim 11x road shifters with the grippy gravel versions. However, Shimano claim to have improved the ergonomics of the new GRX Di2 even further. Despite using a similar shape, the new hoods look quite different. The slightly bigger and bulkier shifters look almost futuristic thanks to the new position of the status lights. Thanks to the angled brake levers, they work particularly well with flared bars, which have become standard in the gravel scene. A larger, more rounded contact surface should reduce pressure on your hands. Unfortunately, were yet to confirm these claims in practice, but were eagerly awaiting a groupset from Shimano that we can put to the test.According to Shimano, the ST-RX825 shifters should tip the scales at 415 g per pair. The front brifter and calliper come as a set for 449.95, and 454.95 for the rear.The brains of the new Shimano GRX Di2 groupsetThe brains of the 2024 12-speed Shimano GRX Di2 group can now be found in the rear derailleur. It doesnt just communicate with external devices like head units or mobile phones, but also serves as the control centre for the whole system. The charging port is hidden beneath a small cover at the rear of the derailleur. However, the derailleur can only accommodate up to 36 t cassettes.One of the big differences compared to Shimanos road counterpart is the clutch on the GRX Di2 derailleur, which can be engaged or disengaged via the usual rocker arm. Of course, this added feature also adds weight, and so the RD-RX825 derailleur tips the scales 310 g, making it slightly heavier than its 287 g predecessor. The new Di2 derailleur can be yours for 369.95.Same look, new design? The front derailleur of the Shimano GRX Di2Although slightly revised, the front derailleur of the 2024 Shimano GRX Di2 is strongly reminiscent of its predecessor. It doesnt feature the more compact design of the latest ULTEGRA and DURA-ACE Di2 front derailleurs. However, the chain line has moved outwards by 2.5 mm specifically for gravel bike demands. This gives frame manufacturers a little more space to allow clearance for larger tires, or increased mud clearance, which can make all the difference.The derailleur is compatible with the existing 212 GRX RX820 and RX610 cranksets, offering 48/31 or 46/30 t configurations. The FD-RX825 front derailleur weighs 142 g, and is priced at 204.95.Software for the win? A software update for the GRX Di2 groupsetAs part of the GRX Di2 launch, Shimano present their latest software innovation called Front shift next. While somewhat cryptically named, it allows you to program the Di2 buttons in such a way that you can shift the front derailleur with just one push of a button, regardless of the position its in, leaving a button free to program as you wish. For example, you can assign this function to a button on the hoods, which you can then use to shift the front derailleur both up and down, depending on its position. Similar to SRAMs counterparts, this is intended to make shifting easier for drop bar newbies. Alongside the new GRX Di2, this innovation will be available to all 12x Di2 Road groupsets via a firmware update.Conclusion on the Shimano 2024 GRX Di2Shimanos 2024 iteration of their gravel groupset combines the latest in wireless shifting from their road components with gravel cranks, cassettes, and brakes. Coupled with ergonomic refinements and easier shift button assignment, Shimano have brought GRX Di2 up to date. The wireless cockpit also keeps things neat, even on bikes with external cable routing. Were looking forward to reviewing the first bike with a 12x GRX Di2 groupset, and are curious if the 1x version will eventually see the introduction of a long-awaited mullet option.Der Beitrag The new Shimano GRX Di2 More refined than ever? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

We all knew it was a matter of time before the GRX 12-speed mechanical groupset would electrify into the GRX Di2 12-speed. Now that first-ever electronic gravel-specific group gets its first refresh. Shimano has the chance to walk back a few features and add new ones, responding to customer and pro athlete feedback.All Photos: Jordan Villella/BikeRumorThe groupset gets updated across the board, boosting efficiency, shifting speed, and ergonomics. The new electronic gravel groupset also incorporates some of the outstanding features of the Dura-Ace and Ultergra 12-speed Di2 component sets.Plus the new groupset is the first of Shimanos 12-speed offerings (on the electric road side) to offer chain retention and management.Shimano GRX Di2 12-Speed What is it?Shimanos new 2 x 12-speed GRX (RX825) Di2 components are the brands new top-tier gravel groupset. The addition of 12-speed offers more integration with the companys road offerings while optimizing gear options for gravel action.The new GRX Di2 platform isnt totally redesigned; its more refined. Its hard to spot a ton of difference in a super quick look at the levers alone. However, small bits stick out once you take a closer look, and the rear derailleur looks very similar to the 12-speed mechanical version.Riders now get a wireless cockpit, like the road Di2 groupsets in the Shimano road line. The shifting speed is faster compared to the previous version, with more refined gravel-specific gearing and ratios. Well get more detailed in the component breakdown section.The new Di2 GRX group is cross-compatible with other Shimano 12-speed components. Riders can tailor their gearing with the 48/31-tooth chainrings or use the RX610 crank and its 46/30-tooth chainrings for more climb-ability.The same goes for cassettes, with 11-36T or 11-34T option. Riders can use cassettes for a wide range of gear with tight gear steps to spin a comfortable cadence.GRX RX825Component Break DownShimano GRX Di2 12-Speed Shift/Brake LeversShimanos 12-speed GRX Di2 features a wireless gravel-specific cockpit.What is a gravel cockpit you ask? Think of the shape of most modern gravel handlebars and the trademark flare. Thanks to its round shape, the updated GRX lever body pairs nicely with flared bars. This new shape helps make the transfer from the handlebar to the hood smoother and creates a larger surface area to help eliminate pressure points. Its very noticeable when you go from the older to the newer GRX Di2 version. The shape is slightly larger, concentrating on ergonomics, comfort, and palm support.The hoods have the trademark texture and anti-slip brake surface you either loved or hated from the previous GRX Di2 groupset, but with a sculpted look and less blocky shape. Instead of the thick, large bars running down the shifters side, the new grip cover adopts a thinner version with an updated additional grip.Easy to Access Thumb ButtonThe new GRX Di2 levers still use a third Di2 button on the inside of the hood. Now, it is more pronounced and accessible. The thin and near flush button on the 11-speed version could disappear when using winter gloves, but the new pronounced version is easy to push with your thumb, no matter where your hands are on the shifter.The shift buttons on the lever blade are nearly identical to the first iteration, but trade dots for lines on the shift paddle. Like the previous version, the downshift paddles are smooth without texture.Wider LeverThe brake lever is slightly wider and uses a more exaggerated shape than the 11-speed lever. From the pivot point, the lever blade flares outward faster than on the 11-speed Di2 version. This allows for better one-finger brake placement (IMO) and finger ergonomics.The levers operate on replaceable coin-cell batteries (2 x CR1632), which Shimano expects to last 3.5 to four years.If youre interested in sprint or auxiliary shifter pods, you can easily add them to the new system (more on that later)How About the Brakes?The brakes are functionally identical to the updated 12-speed Shimano groupsets. That means more pad and debris clearance, better performance, and an effortless bleed operation. The caliper body looks like the updated Dura-Ace and Ultegra versions, with similar (excellent) performance.Key Features Shimano ST-RX825Wireless Di2 Connectivity2 x 12-speed DUAL CONTROL LEVERGravel-specific brake lever and bracket ergonomicsNew flared drop bar optimizationAnti-slip coating on brake lever surfaceThree Di2 buttons per lever for E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app customizationReplaceable coin cell batteries (2 x CR1632) with an expected lifespan of 3.5 to 4 yearsWeight: 415 grams/pairHitting Shift SwitchesThe new GRX Di2 system allows for easy addition of auxiliary shift buttons.The buttons dont need to be assigned a shift, either. The rider can program them for whatever theyd like. That means you can have the switch buttons control compatible lights and computers or act as a lap button during workouts. These buttons could also be exciting on e-bikes, offering compatible options for TQ motor control.How do they install? Its as easy as plugging in one of Shimanos satellite shifters, whether on the tops, drops, or aero bars, program, and roll.Those interested in the TT setup note the 11-speed Tri cockpit setup is compatible with the 12-speed. Why all the button and auxiliary shift options? Since some gravel races and FKT pursuits involve a dialed aero-like position, having easy-to-access buttons can keep riders comfortable and maintain their effort without moving their hands.Shimano GRX- 12-Speed Shadow RD+ Rear DerailleurThe RX825 rear derailleur features Shimanos RD+ technology, which is also found on the 12-mechanical GRX. It boasts an easy-to-access on/off switch for engaging the clutch.Like on Shimanos road 12-speed Di2 systems, the rear derailleur is also the drivetrains communication hub. It communicates wirelessly with the shift levers, compatible computers, and the e-tube project via smartphone.Also like others in the Shimano Di2 12-speed setup, the rear derailleur houses the systems charge port and the multi-function button. The button lets riders quickly check battery level, pair via Bluetooth, and enter adjustment mode for both derailleurs.Key Features Shimano RD-RX825 Rear DerailleurChain StabilizationIntegrated D-FLY connectivity and charging12-speed compatible with 11-34T and 11-36T cassettesWeight: 310 gramsWider Chain Line MeansMore ClearanceThe RX825 system employs a +2.5mm chain line for improved tire clearance. This is especially helpful with the trend towards wider tires and events where mud is a deciding factor between riding or walking.Key Features GRX Di2 FD-RX825 Front DerailleurChain line +2.5mm vs. conventional roadWider tire clearance2 x 12-speedWeight: 142 gramsHow about the crankset?The crankset is relatively unchanged from the 11-speed version. The rings are updated to be 12-speed compatible and boast a sleeker and lighter look with some unique cutouts.Side by side, it is hard to tell the difference without the rings.Shimano GRX Di2 RX825 PricingThe Shimano GRX Di2 12-speed pricing is $2,533.00 for the full groupset. Thats the same price (give or take $50) as the 11-speed GRX groupset. Suppose youre thinking of making the jump from mechanical to electronic 12-speed the Di2 version of GRX 12-speed is $950 more than its mechanical counterpart.Shimano GRX Di2 12-Speed AvailabilityThe new Shimano GRX RX825 groupset is available for sale now. Shimano coordinated with supplies and shops to ensure the groupset was ready to roll as soon as possible.New GRX RX880 Gravel WheelsetAlong with the new GRX Di2 group set, Shimano launched a new, more comprehensive, lighter set of carbon gravel wheels.The new wheelset boasts a 25-millimeter internal width and an updated direct engagement free hub. The set weighs 1394g and retails for $1,550. Look for a stand-alone review on these coming shortlyAnnouncing E-tube Project Customization and Front Shift NextUsing Shimanos E-Tube Project rider phone app, riders can choose between different gear shift intervals for multi-shift. They can also customize shift button assignments to determine which buttons perform which functions. It has different automatic shift modes, such as synchronized or semi-synchronized, and fine-tuned shifting details.The launch of RX825 dovetails with the debut of Shimanos new Front Shift Next functionality.With this firmware update, riders can now utilize Shimanos E-Tube Project app to program any 12-speed Di2 button to shift the front derailleur. This new firmware is compatible with Shimanos family of 12-speed road Di2 groups.Why Front Shift Next? To free up more space with switches and use them for other gear on the bike. Shimano feels the result is simpler, more intuitive shifting for less-experienced riders and quicker decision-making for veteran riders in the heat of competition.Look for a full review, and a head-to-head comparison with weights coming shortly.The post New Shimano GRX Di2 12-Speed Group Refines Gravel Performance appeared first on Bikerumor.

New one-button front shift logic also introduced but no 1x Di2 option

The Japanese giant brings 12-speed Di2 technology to gravel riding, featuring wireless shifting and redesigned shifters

Another day successfully ticked off for Tadej Pogacar at the 2024 Giro d'Italia on stage 18. With just three stages now left, the UAE Team Emirates goes into the final weekend with a more than comfortable lead in the general classification of 7:42."Let's say it was almost a perfect day!" reflected P...

History is littered with weird and wonderful mountain bikes released by performance car brands. It's fair to say some have been more successful than others...6 car brands that have made MTBsHeadlines were made and riders around the world were shocked recently when Mclaren launched its eccentric Extreme 600 e-bike, but Continue reading

Lots of news is coming from the Shimano camp this week just in time for Unbound. First, the launch of the new GRX Di2 12-speed groupset and a new set of gravel-focused wheels. Now, to keep everyone on their toes, they offer limited edition Shimano GRX pedals.All Photos: Jordan Villella/BikeRumorShimano GRX Limited Edition PedalsIf you love having everything on your bike feature the same component name, these are for you. They are strikingly similar to the bomb-proof and popular (to me, at least) Shimano Deore XT pedals.Why? Thats a good question, but reallywhy not? Shimano has the means to produce them. The new design looks cool and offers a bit of a break in the push to have a newly updated pedal every component cycle. The Shimano XT pedal is stable for gravel, CX, and MTB. Shimano feels that a limited release and a celebration of gravel were the perfect times for a limited edition design.Ifyoure new to the Shimano Deore XT pedal, let me introduce you.Its the industry standard for a reliable, race-ready pedal (IMO). The pedaling platform is solid, and the performance is unrivaled, especially in the conditions most riders experience. They shed mud well enough to be a staple at cyclocross races worldwide and are cost-effective enough for most to have the same exact pair on their pit bike.The updated design features Shimano United in Gravel graphics and the exact dimensions and performance of the Deore XT pedal.GRX PD-M8100-UG SPD Pedal DetailsShimano United in Gravel graphicsDual-Sided SPDLower platform height for pedaling stabilityWider edge-to-edge platformStep in and out consistencyOffset binding for improved mud sheddingAdjustable spring release tension for personal adjustmentWeight: 342 gramsMSRP $138.00For more information, check out:Shimano.com The post Shimano GRX Gets its Own Pedals with Limited Edition United in Gravel appeared first on Bikerumor.

Shimano has announced the release of GRX Di2 RX825 its long-awaited 12-speed electronic gravel bike groupset.GRX Di2 RX825 adopts the same semi-wireless design first introduced on Shimanos road-specific Di2 groupsets, with a set of wireless shifters paired to semi-wireless front and rear derailleurs.The derailleurs are then wired to, and powered by, Shimanos standard separate Di2 battery.The rest of the GRX Di2 RX825 groupset is made up of existing 12-speed components from Shimanos GRX RX820 mechanical groupset and its range of electronic road groupsets.Unlike the original GRX Di2 RX815 groupset, GRX Di2 RX825 will only be offered in 2x (Undroppable, as Shimano refers to it) configurations at launch.Shimano has confirmed 1x GRX Di2 RX825 is coming, but it declined to offer a specific timeline for this.Shimano has also announced a new shifting mode called Front Shift Next, for GRX Di2 RX825 and its 12-speed Di2 road groupsets. This enbles users to designate any Di2 shifter button to actuate a front shift (in either direction) when pressed.A limited-edition GRX pedal set is also available, which takes a Deore XT SPD pedal set and adds United in Gravel graphics.Simon von Bromley has weighed every component of new GRX Di2 RX825 and you can read up on his findings here.Shimano GRX Di2 RX825 | What you need to knowShimanos first 12-speed electronic gravel bike groupset2x-only at launch, with 1x groupsets coming laterNew wireless shifters with updated ergonomicsSemi-wireless front and rear derailleursTwo cassette options 11-34 and 11-36tTwo chainring set options 48/31 and 46/30tNew Front Shift Next customisable Di2 button functionalityLimited-edition GRX pedal setSemi-wireless, 12-speed GRX Di2New GRX Di2 RX825 sits on the same tier as Ultegra Di2 R8100. - ShimanoLike GRX RX820 Shimanos 12-speed mechanical gravel bike groupset GRX Di2 RX825 is pitched at the same level as Shimanos Ultegra Di2 R8100 and Deore XT M8100 groupsets.As things stand, then, theres still no GRX-equivalent for Shimanos flagship road and mountain bike groupsets, Dura-Ace Di2 R9200 and XTR M9100.When we put this to Shimano, it said it is focused on supporting its biggest group of riders first, and while it didnt rule out producing high-end GRX components, it also declined to confirm whether it had plans to do so.Compared to the original, 11-speed GRX Di2 RX815 groupset, the key changes with GRX Di2 RX825 are the move to wireless shifters and the adoption of 12-speed, semi-wireless front and rear derailleurs.The brains of the groupset are now incorporated into the rear derailleur. - ShimanoAs with Shimanos 12-speed road bike rear derailleurs, the new GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleur houses the brains of the groupset, eliminating the need for a dedicated junction box elsewhere in the setup.Shimano says the GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleur uses the same electronics as the latest Dura-Ace Di2 RD-R9250 rear derailleur, however it doesnt claim it has the same, 58 per cent faster shifting speed as that.In fact, Shimano isnt making any specific claims surrounding improvements to shifting performance with the entire GRX Di2 RX825 groupset.Shifting aside, though, the groupset sees a number of refinements, including a tweak to the shifter ergonomics and a slight expansion to available gearing range.As noted, GRX Di2 RX825 will only be available in 2x configuration at launch, although Shimano has confirmed a 1x 12-speed GRX Di2 groupset is in development (more on this later).Shimano GRX Di2 ST-RX825 shiftersThe new 12-speed GRX Di2 RX825 shifters use a similar shape but now feature a wireless design. - ShimanoLike Shimanos latest-generation Di2 road shifters (or dual control levers, as Shimano calls them), the GRX Di2 ST-RX825 shifters move to a wireless design.This means there are no more Di2 wires running from the shifters to the central Di2 battery housed within the frame. Instead, each shifter is powered by a set of two CR1632 batteries. Shimano claims these should last for around three-and-a-half to four years.The move to a wireless design helps tidy up the front end and eases installation, especially as gravel bikes become ever more integrated. Of course, there are still brake hoses to route like its mechanical equivalent, GRX Di2 RX825 is only compatible with hydraulic disc brakes.The customisable auxiliary buttons are still located on the inside of each shifter hood. - ShimanoAs well as being wireless, the new GRX Di2 shifters feature updated ergonomics and improved compatibility with flared gravel bike handlebars.The overall shape and design is similar to the outgoing 11-speed GRX Di2 ST-RX815 shifters, although Shimano notes the new shifters are rounder.The shifter buttons layout is the same, with two buttons on the outside of either brake lever, plus an additional customisable auxiliary button on the inside of each shifter hood.The ST-RX825 shifters also include wire ports for Shimano's SW-RS801-T satellite shifters (available separately).Shimano has also announced a new customisation option called Front Shift Next, which enables any single button to be assigned to actuate a front shift in either direction (more on this later).The changes compared to the previous-generation shifters are subtle. - ShimanoAs with the latest 12-speed mechanical GRX shifters, Shimano says the new 12-speed GRX Di2 shifters are better optimised for use on flared handlebars. It also claims the transition point between the hoods and handlebar has been improved to lessen the risk of pressure points.The brake levers also get the same anti-slip coating designed to improve grip and braking confidence in wet conditions. According to my colleague Liam Cahill, who attended the mechanical GRX launch, this tech has been borrowed from Shimanos fishing rods and reels.The claimed weight for a set of Shimano GRX Di2 ST-RX825 shifters is 415g.Thats up 42g compared to the previous generation shifters (which were claimed to weigh 373g per set), though ditching the junction box and additional wires should help even things out.Shimano GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleurShimano's GRX Di2 RX825 rear derailleur features new tech and an updated look. - ShimanoThe new GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleur is now 12-speed and contains the brains of the new GRX Di2 groupset, wireless connectivity and the charging port.As with Shimanos 12-speed road bike electronic groupsets, this negates the need for a separate junction box elsewhere in the system.Its wireless connectivity also enables it to communicate with the new ST-RX825 shifters, as well as compatible bike computers and smartphones running Shimanos E-Tube Project app.Despite this, the new RD-RX825 rear derailleur remains impressively svelte partly thanks to the fact its wired to, and powered by, a central internal battery (typically housed within the bikes frame or seatpost).In contrast, SRAMs AXS and Campagnolos Super Record Wireless derailleurs are a little bulkier because each carries its own detachable battery.The GRX Di2 RX825 rear derailleur has a relatively compact body. - ShimanoTheres just a single cage length available for the GRX Di2 RX825 rear derailleur, but where previous 2x GRX Di2 had a maximum cassette size of 34t, the new one can shift up to a 36t sprocket.As with 2x mechanical GRX RX820, cassette options for GRX Di2 RX825 start with an 11t cog.Shimanos 12-speed 1x mechanical GRX groupsets use cassettes starting with a 10t sprocket, though, and we expect that to be adopted whenever a 12-speed 1x GRX Di2 groupset becomes available.As before, the GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleur uses Shimanos Shadow Plus clutch to help keep the chain in check while riding on rough terrain.The GRX Di2 RX825 rear derailleur uses Shimano's Shadow Plus clutch. - ShimanoIt also receives a small aesthetic update, with a more uniform, dark grey colour similar to that of Shimanos Ultegra Di2 R8100 groupset.Sadly, the polished silver finish seen on GRX Limited is nowhere to be seen.Claimed weight for the GRX Di2 RD-RX825 rear derailleur is 310g an increase of 23g from the 287g claimed for the previous 11-speed version.Shimano GRX Di2 FD-RX825-F front derailleurShimano's new 12-speed GRX Di2 RX825 front derailleur. - ShimanoThe new 12-speed GRX Di2 front derailleur features a reprofiled cage alongside a slightly updated main body.As before, its designed to work with chainrings up to 48t (if you need larger chainrings, you can use a 105, Ultegra or Dura-Ace Di2 front derailleur) and has a total capacity (the difference in tooth count between your two chainrings) of 17t.The chainline is also 2.5mm wider, compared to a road bike front derailleur, to help improve tyre clearance (useful because the best gravel bike tyres keep getting wider).The new GRX Di2 RX825 front derailleur is bulkier than the latest Ultegra and Dura-Ace models. - ShimanoNotably, the new 12-speed GRX Di2 front derailleur doesnt benefit from the smaller form factor afforded to Shimanos latest Ultegra and Dura-Ace Di2 groupsets (which are both 33 per cent smaller than the previous versions).Instead, the GRX Di2 FD-RX825 front derailleur looks more akin to the one found on Shimano's 105 Di2 R7100 groupset.This matters because Shimano claims the latest Ultegra and Dura-Ace Di2 front derailleurs also benefit from smaller and more powerful motor systems that boost front shifting speed by a claimed 45 per cent.In contrast, the 105 Di2 R7100 front derailleur uses the bulkier motor system from the previous-generation Ultegra Di2 R8000 and Dura-Ace Di2 R9100 groupsets. Consequently, it doesnt benefit from the improved shifting speed offered by Shimanos pricier road groupsets.Shimano says there are changes for the new front derailleur, but it hasn't claimed any improvements to performance. - ShimanoShimanos press release likewise doesnt claim any specific performance improvements for front shifting compared to 11-speed GRX Di2.When we put this to Shimano, however, it said the GRX Di2 front derailleur uses a stronger motor than its road-specific equivalents, due to the more challenging circumstances it operates in.It also confirmed there have been internal design changes for the new GRX Di2 RX825 front derailleur, though it declined to say whether these result in any improvements to performance.Shimanos claimed weight for the GRX Di2 FD-RX825 front derailleur is 142g, up 7g from the previous version (135g).Everything elseThe complete GRX Di2 RX825 groupset. - ShimanoThe rest of the 12-speed GRX Di2 RX825 groupset is made up of existing Shimano components.That includes the FC-RX820-2 crankset, which features 48/31t chainrings, or the FC-RX610-2 crankset with 46/30t chainrings.Both cranksets have a 151mm Q-Factor and there are only three crank lengths available 170, 172.5 and 175mm. In contrast, Shimanos Ultegra R8100 road crankset is available in five lengths, from 160 to 175mm.There are two cassette choices an Ultegra-level CS-R8101-12, 11-34t option or the wider CS-HG710-12, 11-36t cassette introduced with Shimano 105 Di2. Both are compatible with HG and HG+ freehubs.GRX Di2 RX825 uses Shimano's latest BR-RX820 brake calipers and RT-CL800 rotors. - ShimanoThe brakes are the same BR-RX820 calipers as used on mechanical 12-speed GRX. These feature 10 per cent greater pad clearance, an updated bleed port location and Shimanos Servo Wave technology.The rotors are Shimanos latest RT-CL800 model, which have a more robust carrier and redesigned braking surface. These are designed to reduce deformation and fade under sustained, heavy braking, leading to quieter and more consistent performance.The chain is the 12-speed, Ultegra / XT level, CN-M8100 model.The BT-DN300 Di2 battery, EW-SD300 wires and EW-EC300 charging cable are all adopted from Shimanos latest 12-speed electronic road bike groupsets.This means the new 12-speed GRX Di2 components are not backwards compatible with older 11-speed parts, such as the BT-DN110-A battery, EW-SD50 wires or SM-BCR2 charger.Why no 1x?1x groupsets won't be available at launch. - Kaden Gardener / Our MediaAt this time, Shimano is only launching 12-speed GRX Di2 as a 2x groupset.When asked, Shimano did confirm 1x is coming, but declined to put a date on when it might arrive.If we were to speculate, we suspect given the similarity between Shimanos 1x 12-speed GRX components and those from its mountain bike groupsets it might launch concurrently with a new range of 12-speed electronic mountain bike groupsets.We dont know when or even if that will happen, of course. Given we havent seen a new Di2 MTB groupset since 2016, when XT M8050 Di2 launched, though, it surely cant be too far away now.What about power meters?Shimano still only offers power meters for its Dura-Ace and Ultegra cranksets. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaA 1x iteration arguably isnt the only thing missing, however theres still no native power meter option for GRX either.While SRAM now offers power meters at every level of its wireless AXS groupsets, Shimano has yet to port over the power measurement technology from its Dura-Ace and Ultegra road bike cranksets.When asked if it had any plans to introduce a GRX power meter crankset, Shimano said it couldnt speculate on future product developments, but that it would consider doing so if there was appropriate demand.Its likely there will be third-party options from the likes of 4iiii (Stages sadly ceased operations amid financial difficulties in recent weeks, according to reports from numerous sources), though. Alternatively, riders could use power meter pedals, such as Faveros Assioma Pro MX, Garmins Rally XC200 or Looks new X-Track Power.Shimano GRX Di2 RX825 claimed weights and pricingWeightsAdding everything up gives a claimed total weight of 2,747g for a complete groupset, excluding wires and brake hoses.Thats a little heavier than its 11-speed predecessor, which had a claimed weight of 2,679g in a comparable spec.However, given the 11-speed groupset uses more wires, the real-world difference between the two groupsets may be smaller. Shimano GRX Di2 RX825 (12-speed)Claimed weight (grams)Shimano GRX Di2 RX815 (11-speed)Claimed weight (grams) ST-RX825 shifters415ST-RX815 shifters (pair)373 RD-RX825 rear derailleur310RD-RX815 rear derailleur287 FD-RX825-F front derailleur142FD-RX815-F front derailleur135 FC-RX820-2 crankset (48/31t, 172.5mm)721FC-RX810-2 crankset (48/31t / 172.5mm)710 CS-R8101-12 cassette (11-34t)345CS-HG800-11 cassette (11-34t)335 BR-RX820 calipers (front and rear, including hose and fluid))282BR-RX810 calipers (front and rear, excluding hoses and brake fluid)265 RT-CL800 (160mm pair)228SM-RT800 rotors (160m, pair)256 CN-M8100 chain (126 links)252CN-HG701-11 chain (114 links)257 BT-DN300 battery52BT-DN110-A battery50 EW-RS910 junction box11 Total2747Total2679 Edit Table In terms of actual weights, the complete GRX Di2 RX825 groupset weighs 2,892g on our scales. That figure includes small parts such as brake hoses and fluid, Di2 wires, rotor lockrings and the mounting parts for the Di2 battery.Our test groupset also differs slightly from the standard spec, with a set of the older RT-MT900 brake rotors plus the wider-range (and lower tier) 11-36t CS-HG710-12 cassette.Our crankset also has 170mm cranks, whereas Shimano offers its claimed weight for a 172.5mm version.For a full breakdown of every part, though, click through to see our actual weights and first impressions of Shimano's new GRX Di2 RX825 groupset.Pricing Shimano GRX Di2 RX825Price ()Price ($) ST-RX825 shifters and BR-RX820 brakes799.981113.98 RD-RX825 rear derailleur324.99409.99 FD-RX825-F front derailleur184.99209.99 FC-RX820-2 crankset (48/31t / 172.5mm)229.99249.99 CS-R8101-12 cassette (11-34t)119.99164.99 RT-CL800 rotors (160m, pair)109.98111.98 CN-M8100 chain (126 links)49.9975 BT-DN300 battery174.99184.99 EW-SD300 (750 and 1000mm)57.9860 EW-EC300 charging cable44.9949.99 Total2097.872630.9 Edit Table In terms of pricing, the individual component prices for GRX Di2 RX825 have gone up compared to their 11-speed equivalents.However, at approximately 2,100 / $2,631 / 2,479, the total price for the GRX Di2 RX825 groupset is similar to the previous 11-speed version.This is because you dont need as many wires, connectors or a junction box, and the latest Di2 charging cable is also significantly cheaper than the old version.The exact price will depend on the configuration of the groupset you choose and, as always, real-world prices may vary.Front Shift NextFront Shift Next is a new customisation option for Shimano's 12-speed Di2 groupsets. - ShimanoAs part of the GRX Di2 RX825 launch, Shimano is also unveiling a new shifting logic option called Front Shift Next.This enables riders with 12-speed Di2 drivetrains to assign any shifter button in the system to actuate a front shift.Pressing this button then prompts the front derailleur to shift up or down, depending on what chainring youre using when you press the button.According to Shimano, Front Shift Next is designed to simplify its Di2 shifting logic for less-experienced riders and offer a one-button front shifting option for experienced riders.By assigning front shifting to a single button, Front Shift Next can also help free up an additional Di2 button for other tasks, such as controlling a compatible bike computer or lights.Shimano says Front Shift Next can be set up on GRX Di2 RX825 and all three of its 12-speed Di2 road bike groupsets, via its E-Tube Project app for smartphones.Limited-edition GRX pedalsShimano has announced its first 'gravel pedal' the GRX SPD M8100-UG. - ShimanoLast but not least, Shimano is also debuting a new set of limited-edition GRX gravel pedals.Shimano says the GRX SPD M8100-UG pedal is a celebration of gravel cycling, thanks to some snazzy new United in Gravel graphics.Essentially, these appear to be Deore XT PD-M8100 pedals with some updated graphics, but perhaps thats no bad thing in our experience, those are great off-road pedals.The GRX SPD M8100-UG pedal appears to simply be a rebranded Deore XT PD-M8100 pedal. - ShimanoThe GRX SPD M8100-UG pedals are compatible with Shimano's SPD cleats and compatible shoes (Shimano naturally recommends its own gravel shoes, such as the RX8 or RX6), and offers dual-sided entry and exit.The claimed weight for a set of GRX SPD M8100-UG pedals is 342g exactly the same as the standard Deore XT version.They are priced at 114.99 / 109.99.

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