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.