Shimano updates DuraAce Mechanical and Di2

Today Shimano released details of their completely redesigned DuraAce 9000 mechanical and Di2 9070 groupsets. There are some cool new features in this evolution which keep raising the bar. But it’s more than just another cog and a few weight reductions. Here’s the scoop:

The only time I’ve seen the new groupsets in person was at the SKY Service Course back in April. I was told not to release any details but Shimano came out with a press release last night. Velonews has a very good and thorough review if you want more details.

What’s New?

• One of the biggest changes to both Di2 and mechanical groupsets is that they’ve gone 11-speed. Cassette options are 11-23, 25 or 28 / 12-25 or 28. Why would you want to upgrade to 11 speeds over 10? It’s basically a nicer gear progression so that you can find a ratio that you’re comfortable with.

• The Di2 levers have the same new compact shifter hood ergonomics and braking compatibility as the 9000 levers. The electronic levers have new wider shift buttons and can be programmed, through a PC interface, to perform multiple shifts by holding a button in (i.e. now you can personalise your shifting preferences such as hitting the button once and it’ll shift however many gears you like when you press and hold the lever).

• The Di2 group borrowed Ultegra’s “E-Tube wiring” which is a rare example of technologies being trickled-up. The system is more compact and easier to ‘plug and play’ than the previous wiring. Time trial shifters, sprint shifters and bar-top satellite shifter options will be available.

• The new Flight Deck Enables Touch Screen enables ANT+ compatibility for use with power meters, heart rate monitors and other functions.

• The mechanical group includes a new cable system said to offer significantly lighter and quicker shifting and braking performance due to a polymer coating that reduces the sliding resistance.

• The new four-arm crank works with anything from a 36-tooth small ring to a 55-tooth big ring – essentially, it’s a compact and full-sized crank in one. Unfortunately the chainrings have a new four-bolt pattern, so it’s not backwards compatible with the old system.

• The 9070 rear derailleur will be able to handle a 28T cassette. Previously, the largest sprocket you could use was a 27T.

• Both groupsets have a new bi-directional 11-speed chain. Shimano claims the chain has 20% more durability due to a special PTFE treatment.

• The new PD-9000 SPD-SL carbon pedals are claimed to offer wider fit adjustability and more cleat options. A longer 4mm axle version of the pedal will also be offered.

• The 11-speed drivetrain requires new Shimano wheels to fit the new cassette, but the new wheels are backwards compatiable with 10-speed cassettes.

• Shimano also has introduced a new line of seven DuraAce wheels. with wider rims. Everything from 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 75mm alloy/carbon clinchers.

Weight

*All weights are manufacturer’s claims. (via BikeRumour.com)

Pricing

The Shimano press release didn’t indicate retail pricing yet, but other sources I’ve found indicates the following (USD):

Wheels range from $1,400 to $3,500 per set (depending on configuration).

DuraAce mechanical 9000 Groupset: $2,695

Di2 9070: $4,139

Availability?

December