"Need" is a very subjective word. If one works all week to make a six-figure income, however, one might be forgiven for wanting the marginally better experience for those hours that are left to ride.
@@mathewrose2951 If 9 seconds up Alpe d'Huez really matter, you're a pro or you're Phil Gaimon. Other than that and the perception of "the best gear available", there is no difference between Ultegra and Dura-Ace.
The less I know about tech the happier I am - when I bought my first road bike I felt like the bees knees because it looked nice and I had clipless pedals. I knew nothing about the mechanics of it. These days however, I find myself surfing the internet looking for the newest, fanciest stuff more than actually riding my bike. Time to get back to basics and appreciate the bike I actually have rather than a constant craving for the next best thing.
Honestly, I love my 9-speed mountain drivetrains. Simple, reliable, cheap. I've never felt that I need more gears. I have 10-speed 105 on my road bike, and I feel the same way. There is no need to "upgrade." The cycling industry has to introduce "new" stuff to keep people continually buying new bikes. I'm concerned the emphasis on ultra-expensive equipment could drive people away from the sport.
@@paulgreen758 you could also loan a bike to try it, without the need to buy it before you tried it. You could still switch to a new groupset if you think it's worth after a test ride
Googled price see £2000+ and instantly tell myself how lovely and reliable my 105 has been. I got my whole bike for £800. It’s fast, light and I like maintaining my bike. Adjusting cables. The simplicity is beautiful. It will be a sad day when we eventually lose mechanical.
Doubt we ever will. At the inexpensive end of the market it seems to me that mechanical is here to stay (?) On the other hand I could see mechanical shifting getting less and less support, becoming limited to Wal-Mart style bikes and those equipped with inexpensive internally geared hubs
Price is always a factor, but it has been said that once you go to electronic shifting, you never go back. I did go back with my new gravel bike 18 months ago, but it has a single chain ring in the front so shifting is still quite smooth. But I miss the Di2, especially when climbing, plus I needed a little more range on the gearing, so ordered another gravel with the 2x in front and the Di2 on board. Still waiting, of course.
I wouldn't mind e-shifting on a dedicated road bike. But as I rarely ride a dedicated road bike, its of little value to me. That and working a front derailleur simultaneous to rear is really not hard so I don't get why people are constantly using that as the argument for electronic.
I'll never go back to mechanical shifting after having my 11speed DI2 Ultegra on my roadie. My gravel build is 1x and the mechanical GRX rear D paired with ultegra brifters (yes GRX shifters cost more than ultegra right now where I'm at and don't get me started on trying to get the GRX brakes) shifts like a dream. My biggest gripe had always been wrestling with the tuning of the front derailleur. With DI2, it takes all the tensioning and micro manual adjustment guesswork out. Also with an old wrist injury limiting my orbital hand movement, shifting into the big chain ring no longer have me leaning inwards cranking the shifters and destabilizing the bike while doing so. The price and stock is the major downside but eventually it'll flow down to maybe 105 level. We won't be see Sora or Tiagra Di2 but the 105 Di2 when it arrives should be a really compelling package (if there's even stock at all)
@@CL-yx7ly whats involved to drop Ultegra cable setup and go wireless? Is there a battery to store somewhere? I don't want to be removing my seatpost regularly to charge, how easy is the change to wireless?
I've got two bikes with Di2 - both Ultegra 11 speed. They're reliable, fuss-free, and the shifting is on point, all the time. I relegated my old R8000 mechanical groupset to the turbo trainer, and I have to say - every time I'm on it, and I shift gears, it quickens the heart like nothing else. There's a magic there, that I can't explain, and I don't even feel I have to explain it. It feels like the essence of something. I'm really sad that it's being phased out.
Maybe because shifting reflects emotions, subtle going up or aggressively going bigger, the sound it makes signals back the action. (sorry I'm not a native speaker)
There’s so much marketing hype going on here, I have servo wave on my GRX group set and still can’t really feel the difference between that and a older Ultegra set up. All that said the GRX Di2 is superb 👍
Scott, so glad to see you say this about the GRX Di2 groupo. I ordered a Moots Routt back in February with that groupo - still waiting, but it sounds like my patience will pay off.
On one hand I can see your argument and there is marketing going on here. On the other hand, if I were to pick 1 component that I wouldn't want to feel significantly different, it would be the braking. Predictability in safety components is a really good thing.
@@stanwatson2904you should be happy with it I certainly am and prefer it to Ultegra !! As let’s face it, it’s pretty much a more robust version of that group set with some technology brought over from there mountain bike group sets. I also prefer the ergonomics of the levers and would spec GRX DI2 even on a road bike if I was building one as it’s really that good 👍
To me the server wave is the automotive equivalent of the quick take up master cylinder, which allows the caliper pistons to be retracted more to keep the pads off the rotors for better fuel economy. Finally Shimano has found a way to back those pistons off further because that was one of the main reasons I’ve stayed away from disc brake. I won’t be as leery now about getting a disc brake bike when basically forced to.
They went over this on one of their shows. Not feasible if they have to travel to location. They would have to haul bikes and the electric mopeds which means more automobiles on the road. Think they said they have/are wanting to get some for their local filming though.
Honestly, these rising prices for all components are going to turn riders away from loving cycling. Cycling needs to be cost effective compared to cars and motorcycles and these prices are not allowing that. I love my current 105 and have lost any yearning to upgrade after seeing the cost that would be incurred.
105 is more than good enough, the more people strive for upgrades every time there's a new addition the more prices will increase. Same with phones. Stop buying new shit until your old one is broken. Even then, fix it.
You're aware that both cars and motorcycles also have low-end, mid-end and high-end segments with corresponding prices, aren't you? Because if you are comparing the asking price for dura-ace with a low-end city car then... i think... it's not really a comparison, is it? You're not going to buy a "commuter" bike with duraace. The same way you don't buy a ferrari to comute within the city.
@@PedroPrego people like a reason to moan mate. People want something for nothing. They seem to forget that Ultegra today isn't the same as Ultegra from 5 years ago. They choose to ignore the more fit for purpose components! I'd happily buy a bike with Sora these days it's awesome now!
The tech is seriously advanced, the price increase is warranted. There is the lower models and the price will reduce alot over the next years. And currently there is a bike and part shortage so prices are going to be more expensive from shops.
Wow, love the look of this. You kept mentioning weight and cost and performance but another huge difference is DURAbility (they do give a clue on that).
Good to know! So now I see that Chorus 12s is way lighter, cheaper, more durable and reliable, 100% serviceable, and you get all options, including mechanical shifting. Nice.
Shimano, listenn pleaseeeee, it's manufactured in Indonesia but we Indonesian can't even get one, not even official dealer, distributor or even retailer, the cycling Industry in Indonesia is Massive, iam fabbled honestly
Be cautious everyone, spare parts for this are a long way behind full bikes. If you smash a mech or lever on your new bike, you are likely in for a long wait for spares.
You can also say that about Shimano components from almost any era. Try getting an 10speed 12-23 cassette a 42T or 52/53T chainring from not so long ago. Or even a Shimano 8-11sp 32Hole rear hub at a sensible price as I have discovered all of these things recently
@@stevemc6671 but 10spd stuff was like….I don’t know 4 years ago? Why would you be replacing them instead of buying a modern groupset? I’d understand if it was for a toss away bike or your indoor trainer which you don’t mind wrecking. But it makes no sense for your road bikes that you actually actively ride
@@johnng2277 Buying new stuff - some of us have to live in the real world and have to prioritise spending our wages rather then buying new stuff every 5 minutes, when the older stuff is 100% suitable and reliable.
Nice groupsets, however, the absence of the mechanical option will be a deal killer for many. Including myself. Hopefully it is just a temporary fashion issue and Shimano will reintroduce both options in their new sets to come.
Simon, you forgot to mention, that price for the new 12 speed Ultegra groupset is the same, as it was for old 11 speed Dura Ace Di2 R9150.😵 New 12 speed 105, if they make it mechanical, will probably cost around 1.000 EUR, or Di2 1.500 EUR.🤣
Comparing shifting over time (the last 4-5 decades), I can confess that there has always been significant improvement. I had my first race bike (Peugeot) back in 1976, than switched to MTBs an two years ago back to cacing and gravel. The new Ultegra seems to be a another step forward. I would't need the latest gimmick, but it promises a lot of fun. Especially with the Wahoo integration and even smoother shifting.
Thanks GCN for another terrific product review video. I have DA Di2 on my road bike and tri bike but just got a new road bike with Ultegra Di2. Both are silky smooth in shifting precision and timing, so much so that I will never go back to mechanical again. Both function the same, are configured the same and operate the same. The difference between DA price premium and small weight variance make Ultegra an obvious choice for top performance with a level of affordability. What is not mentioned in this video is Shimano's mobile app, the "E-tube Project" which allows users to highly customize both DA and Ultegra Di2 using its app and bluetooth synchronization. For any nay-sayers of mechanical vs electronic, the app and ability to customize the smallest of details makes electronic shifting a true game changer for cycling enthusiasts, be they weekend warriors to professional riders. All this talk about how great this product is makes me want to get on my bike ... have fun and keep the rubber side down! Well done Shimano!
After riding my 54T Chainring for 2 years, I can't imagine going back to 53T or smaller. The rest of the group set can be mixed though. Especially the casette and the shifters. I did that with my old XTR set too, where the shifters were Xts.
Ive been riding 105 Biopace for decades. Just went to the new 12 speed Ultegra 8100. I love it! I would like to see the ability to carry an extra battery though. Programable shifting will be here at some point. Auto shift based on rider inputs of cadence, power, speed, and inclination will be nice.
I hope that Shimano will still maintain the mechanical 11-speed cassette and derailleurs for Ultegra and 105 group sets. I still like the relative simplicity and robustness of a mechanical shift system.
I have the previous Dura Ace and has the same features and it is lighter. Well done Shimano for producing a 5000 euros group which has only an extra cog .
@@fukawitribe DURA ACE does. And as this fellow states has the same features but weights less. So where is the difference? They produced 2 electronic only groupsets that have double the price of those they replace with no added featured. Great
@@ΑλέξανδροςΓεκίλης This is a video about Ultegra 8100, which costs significantly less than 5000 Euro. Dura Ace 9200 only costs that if you go for the version with the (rather pricey) Shimano power-meter, otherwise it's around 4300 Euro @ RRP - still incredibly expensive but far below what you mention. The price hike for Dura Ace over Ultegra has been generally massive increase for little to no functional benefit for a long time - i'm not surprised about it but it will only effect those people that think they need the marginal weight saving - or want the name on the side - and have the spare money to afford it . As for added features, there are some but whether it's worth the price increase is entirely up to the individual.
"Mechanical shifting has now gone" - but is that actually an improvement in terms of always-on ready-to-ride availability in comparison to wireless shifting? For example, remembering the documentary Icarus and Bryan Fogel's experience. Would be very interesting if GCN did an episode on the pluses and minuses of the shift, pun intended, to wireless.
Jop, i prefer less cables and wires on the bike. The batterys are good enough to last thousands of kilometers..and as you have to charge other components the same way (bike computer, lights, powermeterpedals)..charging the shifting ist not a big deal and always ready to ride the same way :)
@@floridrummer88 I'm actually an electronics engineer specialized in wireless communication networks and I understand why they did it this way compared to the completely wireless SRAM approach (let's not get into semantics about Mavic Mektronic). Full wireless is easy to set up but at a certain point you must choose between the weight penalty of larger batteries or the inconvenience of having to charge more batteries more often
It’s true that if you don’t bother charging Di2 it will run out, but let’s not forget that mechanical shifting is far from flawless and not immune to failure. It needs more maintenance than electronic.
It's getting harder and harder to justify the price jump to Durace. Personally, I'd go Ultegra and never think twice. Others may want those 275g. Great to have the option!
GCN, it's always nice and fun to watch your videos and explanations. I was tempted by the Dura Ace 2x12 groupset. All my previous bikes were assembled with Ultegra. I myself am 56 years old, the weight difference of 278 grams is of less importance actually. But with my current bike Ridley Noah, black/white in color. The color bothered me, from ultegra dark gray blueish. The bike I ordered is a Sensa Giulia Evo Integrale Super Titan Dura Ace DI2 2X12 With the accents in black on the bike, I now wanted the black dura ace. So yes, I pay more for the color. With a price of a bit above 6000 € I bought this Sensa bike. Now waiting for it to be delivered.
Ultegra has always been the "sweet spot" for performance vs. price but DA is always just a little smoother and sexier. Looking forward to learning more about the actual price differentials once groupsets are available. Also curious what the Ultegra 8100 rim brakes will look like.
Loved the video. I've been considering the 9200 Dura-Ace groupset, but couldn't pull the trigger due to the pricing and selling of my 8000 Ultega groupset. Which I like a lot.
The problem for Shimano with the new Ultegra and Dura Ace is that they loose customers like me. The old- school that prefer mechanical group sets. Cause I know how to fix those. These new electronic thing I really don't care about. So it will be Campy on my next bike.
How does the death of mechanical square with environmental concerns? It assume sourcing/mining electronic components and the need to charge would increase the carbon footprint of a di2 equipped bike over mechanical equivelant. Be interested if there's a study done.
They're trying their best to make the bicycle industry as expensive, wasteful and complicated as the auto industry. At the time when they should be seeking to replace it. Its infuriating.
Who cares? If you are buying a new bike or group set, it takes fuel to make no matter what. If that’s how you feel the best option is always going to be keeping what you have.
You mention that, thanks to electronics, "made it shift as quick as Dura Ace". That just gives me the thought that with all this electronic stuff on the market, a brand like Shimano could purposely handicap the performance of their cheaper products with just a small change in software. In the mechanical world they'd usually invest heavily into purposely designing some products to be inferior. They don't start from the bottom and work upwards, they start from the top and work down, and boy do they know how to go out of their way to make sure a Tourney derailer doesn't function anywhere near as nicely as an Altus, or for as long. It's also interesting to see how Shimano have updated yet downgraded some groupsets over the years too. Altus for instance used to come with seals on the hubs way back in 1992, now they've made sure pretty much anything less than Deore is dust caps only and plenty of dirt ingress, which rapidly decreases their serviceable life. Items in the upper tiers on the other hand usually improve with each generation, to keep people interested. I might sound a bit cynical here, but in all honesty I'm not. Shimano aren't a charity afterall and they've got a business to keep running. It's just fascinating to see the lengths they go to just to squeeze a few more cents out of everything.
Wow, the new groupset is painted black, how innovative! Just like all the others! The black paint must be making the components lighter, special technology- paint every single component on a bike black!
Great review. If I were in the market, I'd not pay the premium for DA. Aside from not being worthy, and lusting for it... I love my Di2 GRX and the Di2 Ultegra before it. I was initially nervous about potential field repair issues. But on a Seattle to Bozeman tour this summer, my Di2 had 0 issues (touch wood) whereas my friend's mechanical Ultegra had a few. An anecdote, but still reassuring.
As a serious cycling enthusiast, the new Ultegra is really appealing but pricepoint is really expensive still. I have gone on to use the chinese Sensah Empire Pro Carbon 12 speed mechanical groupset (minus cranks and brakes) from Ultegra 11 for a paltry sum of USD 270 last year 2020. It may not have the refined finish of a Shimano but it worked damm good. Either buy what you liked or what made economic value for you.
Yeah, I'm not interested in hassle with apps and connections and recharging batteries. Wanted to buy a cyclocross bike recently, found a nice bike with great components, not too expensive either - BUT there was Di2 on it. So I bought another bike.
I have an older Dura Ace bike and it is still way better than I will ever be as a cyclist. My next bike will probably be an Ultegra based bike so wireless here I come!
105 is the bizz. I just ride bikes and enjoy it. We will go full circle, at some stage, and end up riding fixed gear. It's the way to go. Cheap, easy, light, practical, enduring, and gives fitness and strength like nothing else. Let's bring it back to basics
I bought a 10 speed ultegra Di2 on a Canyon Ultimate Al in 2012 for €1899. Carbon would gave been around €200ish more. From memory I think the exchange rate was around £1 to €1.3 so approx £1460. Love electronic shifting , it hasn't missed a beat in all these years but why is it so expensive now? Because of bluetooth?...bluetooth is NOT expenive to include. Not even the £ going down the toilet explains it. On the +ve side I reckon my bike's good for another 10 years (not so sure about me tthough!)
I think it looks nicer than the new dura ace, but I can't believe they would remove the option for mechanical, I want my bike to survive the nuclear holocaust!
Man, you guys have the best bicycles and groupsets! I'm 59 years old with a Giant Escape 3 hybrid. Someday I will have a real bike! Side note: am I cool enough to wear a GNC bike jersey yet?
@@pumagryph that's right, Pros need the fastest bikes to win, but hobby riders who don't do serious racing will be fine with more affordable bikes and will still have much fun with them. Personally I restored an old 1980s bike given away for free the last months, it was once a trekking bike, It got a new paint job and I converted it to a flat bar road bike. It has a brazed 1980s cromoly steel frame, a full Deore group set from the 80s, including biopace chain rings (but the lightweight aluminum ones) and the first gen canti brakes.
I like the new groupsets and looking forward for them to be available in 2024 >.< It is difficult to call this video a review as it is more an advertisement than a review.
I feel like forcing users to use electronic shifting is just a marketing strategy to make people pay more for the "premium quality" just so big company brands can profit more. I honestly feel like new cycling technology is just trying to make the sport feel like a rich man's hobby compared to early 2000s bicycles when it was easily available for everyone.
It’s inevitable and has to happen. Just like the combustion engine has peaked all vehicles are going electronic. It’s too expensive to manufacture a mechanical and electric version so the choice now is to go electronic.
Well you can just buy 105 (or even tiagra if you dont mind loosing a gear) which functions every bit as good als older top of the line groupsets and be good.
10 years down the line Shimano will be uploading software to your groupset that slows down your shifting just as they release their flavor of the year groupset upgrade with 0 backwards compatibility and claim they are doing it to optimize the battery function
Ordered my new bike with Ultegra ….have always ridden and raced on Dura Ace but I can’t tell the difference. And you can easily change cassette and cranks anytime…..
Racers can perhaps justify the added cost when a gnats hair lighter can mean the difference between winning and losing. I am no such person and have no yearning for this kind of upgrade. That said, I can appreciate this Ultegra with the added grams still being a far better value than the Dura Ace for someone such as I. Terrific presentation - very informative.
It's interesting reading the comments. As the components are more expensive some are seeing this as alienating users. But to broaden your perspective, Shimano makes more than just Ultegra and Dura Ace and these two groupsets are aimed at performance users undoubtedly from the world tour to your amateur road racer. Shimano also makes 105, Tiagra, Sora, Claris and by no means least, Tourney. And they're all aimed at different users and budgets. 105 R7000 is something I would very happily race on and I've ridden bikes with it is indistinguishable from Ultegra R8000. But it's made for more than racing, and targeted at the enthusiast who just wants to ride to their local cafe and have the best experience without breaking the bank. The Tourney groupset is what features on almost all budget bikes (Carrera, Viking etc.) And it just works. It will change gear and that's good enough to get you to and from work, school, or the shops. The snobbery and entitlement of "this groupset isn't for me" is entirely the point. Ultegra is about racing performance, at the saving of money but at the cost of weight.
Not sure why people are complaining so much about the price. The 105 is just a brilliant group set and very, very affordable. Buy and enjoy if that's what your wallet prefers! I use my bikes for 10-15 years, and take good care of them, so a high starting price is not really a concern to me.
I remember when Ultegra was affordable to the enthusiast. Now it’s gone past that I feel. I purchased a bike recently and put SRAM force on it, which is brilliant, but was it worth the price tag for an everyday user? No, definitely not. Whilst the technology is utterly brilliant they are pricing out people in the time where cycling should be more encouraged to help with the planet and to do this the price needs to be reasonable. Great video though, as per the norm 😊
Given you can buy a bike with 105 R7000, a groupset rated almost indistinguishable from R8000 mechanical for ~£1000 and Tiagra 10 speed equipped bikes that is basically the same as Dura Ace 10 speed and nicer for less than £1000 I'd question who they're pricing out. At the end of the day you can nip down to Halfords and buy a Carrera with Tourney for ~£240 not to mention the vast second hand market of perfectly fine components with cosmetic damage. It's all about perspective.
I really really wanted ultegra but when I heard from right here at GCN that it’s got some crazy blend of wired and wireless for rim brake it didn’t make sense for me to upgrade. The boxier look has grown on me but I think I’ll wait til I get a bike with disc brakes before hopping onto the new ultegra group
chamfered chain edges (very smart) for shifting .......... my only concern is the more speeds we get the thinner all components become and shorter life ensues .. but I guess in this world we live in now no one keeps anything long enough for it to wear out !!!
That new groupset has you scattering leaves as you fly by Si! Nicely done and a great description of the new Ultegra. Wonder when they'll be off the container ships anchored off the coast of California?
Due to COVID supply chain issues, my rim brake Merckx got Ultegra R8000 mechanical crank set and brakes, and R9100 Dura Ace shifters, cassette and chain. I think I’m good for the nest decade or so! And the prices are getting absurd … saw a $20K mountain bike on the floor of a LBS last week 🤯. Also Si what ergonomic bars are you using on that Orbea?
Just think about if you can connect the gearset to your head unit with the Wahoo you could use the leds as a rev counter to tell you to change gear to keep optimal cadence 😂
thanks Si /guys, you've helped e decide. I was wondering about Sram, but their crazy proprietary decision, increased price and weight and apparent lower performance means I'm staying Shimano and going for this new Ultra. Looks great .. though it should be for almost triple what I paid for my caad12 105 disc (2nd hand)!
Very nice group set in my opinion! I prefer Ultegra over Dura Ace as I believe the Ultegra components are a bit more robust and less breakable than the Dura Ace components. There is always a cost for lower weight, and its probably not a big difference, but it is a difference. I have the previous generation (8000) on my bike, and I'll probably upgrade to the 8100 group in a few years when my current group is showing its age.
@@meibing4912 Motobecane. From an online retailer. I have one of their 11 speed Ultegra Di2 bikes that I purchased about three years ago. Great value for the price. I may rebuild the bike with a different frame in the future. Looking at a Velobuild or Yoeleo frame. But, first is a set of carbon wheels. The bike cost me $3000, price since increased to $4000. So, I don't mind upgrading other components.
What do you think of the new Ultegra?
Old one looked way better
Wish I had it. I just got the latest 105 and now we move to 12 speed, just my luck.
@@ark8tct I am thinking of trying 1x GRX DI2, just for trying it, but i don't think I will be moving from my 2x11 Ultegra mech as the main groupset.
It looks great! I am interested in a new 105 groupset. We have any news about that? I hope that one stays mechanical.
No thanks, app integration is a weakness imo. It will become worthless once they stop updating the app.
I ordered mine already, it’s coming January 5th, 2035. I cannot wait!
Wow, you're getting yours that soon?!
Probably will get delayed.
You have to wait
That’s sooner than expected!
2035, really?
I'm turning 70 soon so I´ll just finish my riding years on an 11-speed groupset with mechanical shifting. I do like the new groupset. Great video.
At 71, I’ll leave this to younger riders who might get some years of enjoyment out of them.
a wise man once told me - if you have to pay for dura-ace, you dont need dura-ace
"Need" is a very subjective word. If one works all week to make a six-figure income, however, one might be forgiven for wanting the marginally better experience for those hours that are left to ride.
@@mathewrose2951 If 9 seconds up Alpe d'Huez really matter, you're a pro or you're Phil Gaimon. Other than that and the perception of "the best gear available", there is no difference between Ultegra and Dura-Ace.
A wise man told me that every time you go to the dentist, you're helping someone buy Dura-Ace
A wise man told me that before death you will regret you spent your life for not riding dura ace
@@mathewrose2951 I make 150k and ride an Emonda SL5 rim on 105. Paid $1800 pre-covid. All I need and all I want.
The less I know about tech the happier I am - when I bought my first road bike I felt like the bees knees because it looked nice and I had clipless pedals. I knew nothing about the mechanics of it. These days however, I find myself surfing the internet looking for the newest, fanciest stuff more than actually riding my bike.
Time to get back to basics and appreciate the bike I actually have rather than a constant craving for the next best thing.
Same problem here. Have a new bike now that I'm upgrading everything on. It's in my spare room and hasn't even been ridden lol
The rabbit hole of cycling tech. The literal origin of the phrase 'Screw riding up grades, buy upgrades.'
I've actually been wanting to get an alloy bike again! Call me crazy haha.
Honestly, I love my 9-speed mountain drivetrains. Simple, reliable, cheap. I've never felt that I need more gears. I have 10-speed 105 on my road bike, and I feel the same way. There is no need to "upgrade." The cycling industry has to introduce "new" stuff to keep people continually buying new bikes. I'm concerned the emphasis on ultra-expensive equipment could drive people away from the sport.
Absolutely agreed. Same with me
Given my history of buying a new bike every 10 to 20 years, I will probably upgrade my 11x DI2 about the time Shamino introduces a 20x version.
I still use a 10 speed, but ive changed the cassette to 11-40, the 11-28 was killing me on the hills
@@paulgreen758 10 speed parts are probably way more affordable than the newest stuff, in this case 12x which is still highly expensive.
@@simonm1447 I bet they are, it’ll be a while until I update the bike, it suits my needs, but I’d like to try it
@@paulgreen758 you could also loan a bike to try it, without the need to buy it before you tried it. You could still switch to a new groupset if you think it's worth after a test ride
@@simonm1447 good idea Simon thanks for the chat
Googled price see £2000+ and instantly tell myself how lovely and reliable my 105 has been. I got my whole bike for £800. It’s fast, light and I like maintaining my bike. Adjusting cables. The simplicity is beautiful. It will be a sad day when we eventually lose mechanical.
Doubt we ever will. At the inexpensive end of the market it seems to me that mechanical is here to stay (?)
On the other hand I could see mechanical shifting getting less and less support, becoming limited to Wal-Mart style bikes and those equipped with inexpensive internally geared hubs
I like mechanical - simply can't justify the 100% price increase to electronic. I'd rather invest in more aero wheels.
Price is always a factor, but it has been said that once you go to electronic shifting, you never go back. I did go back with my new gravel bike 18 months ago, but it has a single chain ring in the front so shifting is still quite smooth. But I miss the Di2, especially when climbing, plus I needed a little more range on the gearing, so ordered another gravel with the 2x in front and the Di2 on board. Still waiting, of course.
I wouldn't mind e-shifting on a dedicated road bike. But as I rarely ride a dedicated road bike, its of little value to me. That and working a front derailleur simultaneous to rear is really not hard so I don't get why people are constantly using that as the argument for electronic.
I'll never go back to mechanical shifting after having my 11speed DI2 Ultegra on my roadie. My gravel build is 1x and the mechanical GRX rear D paired with ultegra brifters (yes GRX shifters cost more than ultegra right now where I'm at and don't get me started on trying to get the GRX brakes) shifts like a dream.
My biggest gripe had always been wrestling with the tuning of the front derailleur. With DI2, it takes all the tensioning and micro manual adjustment guesswork out. Also with an old wrist injury limiting my orbital hand movement, shifting into the big chain ring no longer have me leaning inwards cranking the shifters and destabilizing the bike while doing so.
The price and stock is the major downside but eventually it'll flow down to maybe 105 level. We won't be see Sora or Tiagra Di2 but the 105 Di2 when it arrives should be a really compelling package (if there's even stock at all)
@@CL-yx7ly excellent point, thanks for sharing!
@@CL-yx7ly whats involved to drop Ultegra cable setup and go wireless? Is there a battery to store somewhere? I don't want to be removing my seatpost regularly to charge, how easy is the change to wireless?
Some GCN videos you just have to watch over again, this is one of them. The inspirational scenery and awesome group set.
I've got two bikes with Di2 - both Ultegra 11 speed. They're reliable, fuss-free, and the shifting is on point, all the time. I relegated my old R8000 mechanical groupset to the turbo trainer, and I have to say - every time I'm on it, and I shift gears, it quickens the heart like nothing else. There's a magic there, that I can't explain, and I don't even feel I have to explain it. It feels like the essence of something. I'm really sad that it's being phased out.
Maybe because shifting reflects emotions, subtle going up or aggressively going bigger, the sound it makes signals back the action. (sorry I'm not a native speaker)
Phazed out! to come back in 10 years as the new hart stopping cable shifting tec!
There’s so much marketing hype going on here, I have servo wave on my GRX group set and still can’t really feel the difference between that and a older Ultegra set up. All that said the GRX Di2 is superb 👍
Scott, so glad to see you say this about the GRX Di2 groupo. I ordered a Moots Routt back in February with that groupo - still waiting, but it sounds like my patience will pay off.
On one hand I can see your argument and there is marketing going on here. On the other hand, if I were to pick 1 component that I wouldn't want to feel significantly different, it would be the braking. Predictability in safety components is a really good thing.
@@stanwatson2904you should be happy with it I certainly am and prefer it to Ultegra !! As let’s face it, it’s pretty much a more robust version of that group set with some technology brought over from there mountain bike group sets. I also prefer the ergonomics of the levers and would spec GRX DI2 even on a road bike if I was building one as it’s really that good 👍
To me the server wave is the automotive equivalent of the quick take up master cylinder, which allows the caliper pistons to be retracted more to keep the pads off the rotors for better fuel economy. Finally Shimano has found a way to back those pistons off further because that was one of the main reasons I’ve stayed away from disc brake. I won’t be as leery now about getting a disc brake bike when basically forced to.
Props to the videography and production team for this video. This one’s a big-screen quality production.
What it takes for shock and awe to sell dumb people on a complete waste of money.
When does GCN get an electric motorbike for their on-road cameraman?? Cleaner and less background noise…win-win
They went over this on one of their shows. Not feasible if they have to travel to location. They would have to haul bikes and the electric mopeds which means more automobiles on the road. Think they said they have/are wanting to get some for their local filming though.
It’s not cleaner stop,with this bullshit green washing.
Electric motorbike have an average range of 15 miles, which is less than a roadbike range for the time of a vidéo...
@@choanlpoto the emissions on motorcycles are less regulated than cars so they're more polluting. So yeah, e-bikes are cleaner
@@nommchompsky roflll
Upgrading from mechanical 105 to Ultegra di2 this week. Really excited to feel the difference!
How do they compare? I'm currently in mechanical 105 and thinking of upgrading g
Honestly, these rising prices for all components are going to turn riders away from loving cycling. Cycling needs to be cost effective compared to cars and motorcycles and these prices are not allowing that.
I love my current 105 and have lost any yearning to upgrade after seeing the cost that would be incurred.
105 is more than good enough, the more people strive for upgrades every time there's a new addition the more prices will increase. Same with phones. Stop buying new shit until your old one is broken. Even then, fix it.
You're aware that both cars and motorcycles also have low-end, mid-end and high-end segments with corresponding prices, aren't you? Because if you are comparing the asking price for dura-ace with a low-end city car then... i think... it's not really a comparison, is it? You're not going to buy a "commuter" bike with duraace. The same way you don't buy a ferrari to comute within the city.
@@PedroPrego people like a reason to moan mate. People want something for nothing. They seem to forget that Ultegra today isn't the same as Ultegra from 5 years ago. They choose to ignore the more fit for purpose components! I'd happily buy a bike with Sora these days it's awesome now!
The tech is seriously advanced, the price increase is warranted. There is the lower models and the price will reduce alot over the next years. And currently there is a bike and part shortage so prices are going to be more expensive from shops.
You don’t buy a Mercedes on a Honda budget. You don’t buy DA on a 105 budget either. As with anything its as cheap or expensive as you make it.
mine just came in!!
shipping 5 stars!!
*delivered 5 years after release*
Wow, love the look of this. You kept mentioning weight and cost and performance but another huge difference is DURAbility (they do give a clue on that).
Have to go with Campagnolo to have a nice mechanical shifting.
I never left Campy on the road bike. Years ago Ultegra was arguably a better deal than Chorus but not now.
Good to know! So now I see that Chorus 12s is way lighter, cheaper, more durable and reliable, 100% serviceable, and you get all options, including mechanical shifting. Nice.
@@alen-commentnazi8774 Shimano shifters cannot be repaired
@@unairamos74 Correct. Chorus up Campag can.
And it's Made in Italy, NOT China. It's superior, too. Lasts..................
Chorus is class. Period.
The last thing I would be doing in a global parts shortage is buying a rarer, expensive groupset that requires new tools to service and fit it.
Shimano, listenn pleaseeeee, it's manufactured in Indonesia but we Indonesian can't even get one, not even official dealer, distributor or even retailer, the cycling Industry in Indonesia is Massive, iam fabbled honestly
That's an amazing paint job. Wow.
Be cautious everyone, spare parts for this are a long way behind full bikes. If you smash a mech or lever on your new bike, you are likely in for a long wait for spares.
You can also say that about Shimano components from almost any era. Try getting an 10speed 12-23 cassette a 42T or 52/53T chainring from not so long ago. Or even a Shimano 8-11sp 32Hole rear hub at a sensible price as I have discovered all of these things recently
@@stevemc6671 but 10spd stuff was like….I don’t know 4 years ago? Why would you be replacing them instead of buying a modern groupset?
I’d understand if it was for a toss away bike or your indoor trainer which you don’t mind wrecking. But it makes no sense for your road bikes that you actually actively ride
@@johnng2277 Buying new stuff - some of us have to live in the real world and have to prioritise spending our wages rather then buying new stuff every 5 minutes, when the older stuff is 100% suitable and reliable.
Nice groupsets, however, the absence of the mechanical option will be a deal killer for many. Including myself. Hopefully it is just a temporary fashion issue and Shimano will reintroduce both options in their new sets to come.
Simon, you forgot to mention, that price for the new 12 speed Ultegra groupset is the same, as it was for old 11 speed Dura Ace Di2 R9150.😵 New 12 speed 105, if they make it mechanical, will probably cost around 1.000 EUR, or Di2 1.500 EUR.🤣
FFS 😵💫
Of course not, this is an advert for Shimano
That's because new 12spd 105 DI2 coming next year will cost as much as old 11spd Ultegra DI2. Everything is strategically priced.
@@cup_and_cone a 1x12 on a road bike is silly
Ultegra Di2 R8150 is around 1.500€ in 2023 now 😏
Comparing shifting over time (the last 4-5 decades), I can confess that there has always been significant improvement. I had my first race bike (Peugeot) back in 1976, than switched to MTBs an two years ago back to cacing and gravel. The new Ultegra seems to be a another step forward. I would't need the latest gimmick, but it promises a lot of fun. Especially with the Wahoo integration and even smoother shifting.
Justify the price upgrade 🤣I’ll be sticking with 105 👍
Thanks GCN for another terrific product review video. I have DA Di2 on my road bike and tri bike but just got a new road bike with Ultegra Di2. Both are silky smooth in shifting precision and timing, so much so that I will never go back to mechanical again. Both function the same, are configured the same and operate the same. The difference between DA price premium and small weight variance make Ultegra an obvious choice for top performance with a level of affordability. What is not mentioned in this video is Shimano's mobile app, the "E-tube Project" which allows users to highly customize both DA and Ultegra Di2 using its app and bluetooth synchronization. For any nay-sayers of mechanical vs electronic, the app and ability to customize the smallest of details makes electronic shifting a true game changer for cycling enthusiasts, be they weekend warriors to professional riders. All this talk about how great this product is makes me want to get on my bike ... have fun and keep the rubber side down! Well done Shimano!
After riding my 54T Chainring for 2 years, I can't imagine going back to 53T or smaller. The rest of the group set can be mixed though. Especially the casette and the shifters. I did that with my old XTR set too, where the shifters were Xts.
Ive been riding 105 Biopace for decades. Just went to the new 12 speed Ultegra 8100. I love it! I would like to see the ability to carry an extra battery though. Programable shifting will be here at some point. Auto shift based on rider inputs of cadence, power, speed, and inclination will be nice.
I hope that Shimano will still maintain the mechanical 11-speed cassette and derailleurs for Ultegra and 105 group sets. I still like the relative simplicity and robustness of a mechanical shift system.
I have the previous Dura Ace and has the same features and it is lighter. Well done Shimano for producing a 5000 euros group which has only an extra cog .
"Well done Shimano for producing a 5000 euros group" It doesn't cost 5,000 Euros.
@@fukawitribe DURA ACE does. And as this fellow states has the same features but weights less. So where is the difference? They produced 2 electronic only groupsets that have double the price of those they replace with no added featured. Great
@@ΑλέξανδροςΓεκίλης This is a video about Ultegra 8100, which costs significantly less than 5000 Euro. Dura Ace 9200 only costs that if you go for the version with the (rather pricey) Shimano power-meter, otherwise it's around 4300 Euro @ RRP - still incredibly expensive but far below what you mention. The price hike for Dura Ace over Ultegra has been generally massive increase for little to no functional benefit for a long time - i'm not surprised about it but it will only effect those people that think they need the marginal weight saving - or want the name on the side - and have the spare money to afford it . As for added features, there are some but whether it's worth the price increase is entirely up to the individual.
What I'm really looking forward to is the next GRX groupset based on this. Please Shimano do 48-32, 11-36, 12 speed with powermeter. 😉👍
105 can now be pushed up into the old mechanical Ultegra price bracket and everything else can shift up a bracket
Well said! Ultegra equipped bikes will unfortunately be out of a lot of peoples affordability.
I’ll keep my 105 and put my money for E bike for riding around the city just for fun instead of paying for Di2 that doesn’t make you go any faster lol
I think I'll still stick to 105 for performance/price balance.
Tbh new 105 is probably as good as old Ultegra
@@a1white The real question might be: Can I be tempted by a 105 Di2 groupset? Or will price have me looking at the new Tiagra?
you slow buddy
@@amirtz3342 I may be slow, but I'm cheap.
I can't wait for my next upgrade, Di2 Claris
"Mechanical shifting has now gone" - but is that actually an improvement in terms of always-on ready-to-ride availability in comparison to wireless shifting? For example, remembering the documentary Icarus and Bryan Fogel's experience. Would be very interesting if GCN did an episode on the pluses and minuses of the shift, pun intended, to wireless.
Jop, i prefer less cables and wires on the bike. The batterys are good enough to last thousands of kilometers..and as you have to charge other components the same way (bike computer, lights, powermeterpedals)..charging the shifting ist not a big deal and always ready to ride the same way :)
Best part ... it's not even wireless 🤣
@@robbeelsas thats true..and sad at the same time..but atlesst wireless from the shifters..
@@floridrummer88 I'm actually an electronics engineer specialized in wireless communication networks and I understand why they did it this way compared to the completely wireless SRAM approach (let's not get into semantics about Mavic Mektronic). Full wireless is easy to set up but at a certain point you must choose between the weight penalty of larger batteries or the inconvenience of having to charge more batteries more often
It’s true that if you don’t bother charging Di2 it will run out, but let’s not forget that mechanical shifting is far from flawless and not immune to failure. It needs more maintenance than electronic.
It's getting harder and harder to justify the price jump to Durace. Personally, I'd go Ultegra and never think twice. Others may want those 275g. Great to have the option!
pretty proud to see indonesia made the new sprocket of shimano ultegra
GCN, it's always nice and fun to watch your videos and explanations.
I was tempted by the Dura Ace 2x12 groupset.
All my previous bikes were assembled with Ultegra.
I myself am 56 years old, the weight difference of 278 grams is of less importance actually.
But with my current bike Ridley Noah, black/white in color.
The color bothered me, from ultegra dark gray blueish.
The bike I ordered is a Sensa Giulia Evo Integrale Super Titan Dura Ace DI2 2X12
With the accents in black on the bike, I now wanted the black dura ace.
So yes, I pay more for the color.
With a price of a bit above 6000 € I bought this Sensa bike.
Now waiting for it to be delivered.
Its just previous generation Dura Ace dressed up as Ultegra. You cannot fault it - fantastic performance and quality, what else can you say!
Forget the new tech, the colour scheme of the Orbea is fantastic 😍
Ref: Singing and dancing Ultegra/DuraAce 12 speed etc; what an awesome paint job on the Orbea!
It's a big dream.... Especially the availability 😅
Ultegra has always been the "sweet spot" for performance vs. price but DA is always just a little smoother and sexier. Looking forward to learning more about the actual price differentials once groupsets are available.
Also curious what the Ultegra 8100 rim brakes will look like.
Loved the video. I've been considering the 9200 Dura-Ace groupset, but couldn't pull the trigger due to the pricing and selling of my 8000 Ultega groupset. Which I like a lot.
No. No way I'd ever buy a bike that relies on a battery. Game over man. Game over
My bike is a year old and it has the previous Ultegra group set and I love it. This new set would be nice to have but I’m not upgrading just yet.
12-speed GRX next, please! 😁👍
I’ll stick with my 6800. It still works and it’s probably lighter then the 8100.
The problem for Shimano with the new Ultegra and Dura Ace is that they loose customers like me.
The old- school that prefer mechanical group sets.
Cause I know how to fix those.
These new electronic thing I really don't care about.
So it will be Campy on my next bike.
💯
Same here and I don't want to bleed brakes either!
Yeahhh
totally agree
Same. Next build will be Campa for sure.
How does the death of mechanical square with environmental concerns? It assume sourcing/mining electronic components and the need to charge would increase the carbon footprint of a di2 equipped bike over mechanical equivelant. Be interested if there's a study done.
They're trying their best to make the bicycle industry as expensive, wasteful and complicated as the auto industry. At the time when they should be seeking to replace it. Its infuriating.
Who cares? If you are buying a new bike or group set, it takes fuel to make no matter what. If that’s how you feel the best option is always going to be keeping what you have.
That orbea paintjob is sick!
You mention that, thanks to electronics, "made it shift as quick as Dura Ace". That just gives me the thought that with all this electronic stuff on the market, a brand like Shimano could purposely handicap the performance of their cheaper products with just a small change in software.
In the mechanical world they'd usually invest heavily into purposely designing some products to be inferior. They don't start from the bottom and work upwards, they start from the top and work down, and boy do they know how to go out of their way to make sure a Tourney derailer doesn't function anywhere near as nicely as an Altus, or for as long. It's also interesting to see how Shimano have updated yet downgraded some groupsets over the years too. Altus for instance used to come with seals on the hubs way back in 1992, now they've made sure pretty much anything less than Deore is dust caps only and plenty of dirt ingress, which rapidly decreases their serviceable life. Items in the upper tiers on the other hand usually improve with each generation, to keep people interested.
I might sound a bit cynical here, but in all honesty I'm not. Shimano aren't a charity afterall and they've got a business to keep running. It's just fascinating to see the lengths they go to just to squeeze a few more cents out of everything.
5:25 - the library joke (whether it was in a script or was an ad lib) is brilliant!
PS
I am impatiently waiting for a 2x12 105/GRX mech...
Wow, the new groupset is painted black, how innovative! Just like all the others! The black paint must be making the components lighter, special technology- paint every single component on a bike black!
Great review. If I were in the market, I'd not pay the premium for DA. Aside from not being worthy, and lusting for it... I love my Di2 GRX and the Di2 Ultegra before it. I was initially nervous about potential field repair issues. But on a Seattle to Bozeman tour this summer, my Di2 had 0 issues (touch wood) whereas my friend's mechanical Ultegra had a few. An anecdote, but still reassuring.
That bike is gorgeous! Beautiful colour combo.
Its lovely!
Came for the Ultegra, stayed for that Orbea. Holy 🤩
As a serious cycling enthusiast, the new Ultegra is really appealing but pricepoint is really expensive still.
I have gone on to use the chinese Sensah Empire Pro Carbon 12 speed mechanical groupset (minus cranks and brakes) from Ultegra 11 for a paltry sum of USD 270 last year 2020. It may not have the refined finish of a Shimano but it worked damm good.
Either buy what you liked or what made economic value for you.
“Cable shifting is no longer an option”
Aaaaand there goes my interest
Yeah, I'm not interested in hassle with apps and connections and recharging batteries. Wanted to buy a cyclocross bike recently, found a nice bike with great components, not too expensive either - BUT there was Di2 on it. So I bought another bike.
campy or sram red 22 it is my friend!
edit: or go for microshift. the traditional brands are all f*cking us over with their line ups and price points.
I have an older Dura Ace bike and it is still way better than I will ever be as a cyclist. My next bike will probably be an Ultegra based bike so wireless here I come!
Those Pirelli tires look amazing! I want!!
Got my 12 speed Rim brake version and is excellent 👌
Ultegra stands for ULTimate inTEGRAtion. This group demonstrates this to perfection!
OH!! I CANNOT WAIT TO GET AN ULTEGRA 12SPD BIKE!!!!!
proud from Indonesia👌
That bike colour 👌
It's so considerate of Shimãnô to put so much effort into a groupset for all the hygienists/unpaid interns and poors alike who can't afford Durá-Âcè™.
That's nothing compared to the condescension towards the 105, the groupset of the peasants.
105 is the bizz.
I just ride bikes and enjoy it.
We will go full circle, at some stage, and end up riding fixed gear. It's the way to go. Cheap, easy, light, practical, enduring, and gives fitness and strength like nothing else.
Let's bring it back to basics
would love to know what YOU thought of this, as opposed to publishing a pure advert. But I know GCN doesn't operate that way, more's the pity.
I bought a 10 speed ultegra Di2 on a Canyon Ultimate Al in 2012 for €1899. Carbon would gave been around €200ish more. From memory I think the exchange rate was around £1 to €1.3 so approx £1460. Love electronic shifting , it hasn't missed a beat in all these years but why is it so expensive now? Because of bluetooth?...bluetooth is NOT expenive to include. Not even the £ going down the toilet explains it. On the +ve side I reckon my bike's good for another 10 years (not so sure about me tthough!)
Wow! Love the new Ultegra groupset. Might really have to check that out.
I think it looks nicer than the new dura ace, but I can't believe they would remove the option for mechanical, I want my bike to survive the nuclear holocaust!
If a nuke goes off, we got bigger issues bruzz.
PS: Your comment aged well... 😐
Man, you guys have the best bicycles and groupsets! I'm 59 years old with a Giant Escape 3 hybrid. Someday I will have a real bike! Side note: am I cool enough to wear a GNC bike jersey yet?
I own the same bike and my gawd it is HEAVY
If you ride it and enjoy it, it's a real bike!
@@pumagryph that's right, Pros need the fastest bikes to win, but hobby riders who don't do serious racing will be fine with more affordable bikes and will still have much fun with them.
Personally I restored an old 1980s bike given away for free the last months, it was once a trekking bike, It got a new paint job and I converted it to a flat bar road bike.
It has a brazed 1980s cromoly steel frame, a full Deore group set from the 80s, including biopace chain rings (but the lightweight aluminum ones) and the first gen canti brakes.
I recently was overtaken by a steel bike on a long climb. Not that I would care, but it shows you can kill it with every bike.
Because they get them sponsored
Ive been using ultegra ever since the late 80s and i dont have any desire for any other specially now that its semi wireless
I like the new groupsets and looking forward for them to be available in 2024 >.< It is difficult to call this video a review as it is more an advertisement than a review.
You are right. Just meh
2024, Yes just in time for "The new ultegra group set!" 💁🏻♂️😂
I feel like forcing users to use electronic shifting is just a marketing strategy to make people pay more for the "premium quality" just so big company brands can profit more. I honestly feel like new cycling technology is just trying to make the sport feel like a rich man's hobby compared to early 2000s bicycles when it was easily available for everyone.
It’s inevitable and has to happen. Just like the combustion engine has peaked all vehicles are going electronic. It’s too expensive to manufacture a mechanical and electric version so the choice now is to go electronic.
Well you can just buy 105 (or even tiagra if you dont mind loosing a gear) which functions every bit as good als older top of the line groupsets and be good.
@@Digi20 Next gen, next year even the 105 group set will be electronic only. If someone wants to stay with mechanical, it will be old 105 or Tiagra.
10 years down the line Shimano will be uploading software to your groupset that slows down your shifting just as they release their flavor of the year groupset upgrade with 0 backwards compatibility and claim they are doing it to optimize the battery function
That ORCA is on fire.
Awesome groupset - Kudos Shimano! 💯👌👍
Ordered my new bike with Ultegra ….have always ridden and raced on Dura Ace but I can’t tell the difference. And you can easily change cassette and cranks anytime…..
16 teeth - my favorite sprocket
Racers can perhaps justify the added cost when a gnats hair lighter can mean the difference between winning and losing. I am no such person and have no yearning for this kind of upgrade. That said, I can appreciate this Ultegra with the added grams still being a far better value than the Dura Ace for someone such as I. Terrific presentation - very informative.
When the shift hits the fan how is the home mechanic going to repair it.
Unbolt it, throw it away and bolt on new. They don't want you repairing it. More waste lol
My two di2 bikes have been as reliable as a brick over the last 5 years/40,000 miles. Nothing ever goes wrong with them.
The same way you repair your laptop or smart phone - buy a new one. That's the new reality.
It's interesting reading the comments. As the components are more expensive some are seeing this as alienating users. But to broaden your perspective, Shimano makes more than just Ultegra and Dura Ace and these two groupsets are aimed at performance users undoubtedly from the world tour to your amateur road racer.
Shimano also makes 105, Tiagra, Sora, Claris and by no means least, Tourney. And they're all aimed at different users and budgets.
105 R7000 is something I would very happily race on and I've ridden bikes with it is indistinguishable from Ultegra R8000. But it's made for more than racing, and targeted at the enthusiast who just wants to ride to their local cafe and have the best experience without breaking the bank. The Tourney groupset is what features on almost all budget bikes (Carrera, Viking etc.) And it just works. It will change gear and that's good enough to get you to and from work, school, or the shops.
The snobbery and entitlement of "this groupset isn't for me" is entirely the point. Ultegra is about racing performance, at the saving of money but at the cost of weight.
Not sure why people are complaining so much about the price. The 105 is just a brilliant group set and very, very affordable. Buy and enjoy if that's what your wallet prefers! I use my bikes for 10-15 years, and take good care of them, so a high starting price is not really a concern to me.
I love my Dura-ace 12spd. I'm going to pick up the Ultegra for my wife.
I remember when Ultegra was affordable to the enthusiast. Now it’s gone past that I feel. I purchased a bike recently and put SRAM force on it, which is brilliant, but was it worth the price tag for an everyday user? No, definitely not. Whilst the technology is utterly brilliant they are pricing out people in the time where cycling should be more encouraged to help with the planet and to do this the price needs to be reasonable.
Great video though, as per the norm 😊
Given you can buy a bike with 105 R7000, a groupset rated almost indistinguishable from R8000 mechanical for ~£1000 and Tiagra 10 speed equipped bikes that is basically the same as Dura Ace 10 speed and nicer for less than £1000 I'd question who they're pricing out. At the end of the day you can nip down to Halfords and buy a Carrera with Tourney for ~£240 not to mention the vast second hand market of perfectly fine components with cosmetic damage.
It's all about perspective.
I was not aware that my 8000 is lacking. The only battery I want on my bike is to make the wheel go.
Can we find details of the route ridden during this? Looks fantastic!
I really really wanted ultegra but when I heard from right here at GCN that it’s got some crazy blend of wired and wireless for rim brake it didn’t make sense for me to upgrade. The boxier look has grown on me but I think I’ll wait til I get a bike with disc brakes before hopping onto the new ultegra group
Congratulations Shimano.....you've developed SRAM axs with the need for two wires.
chamfered chain edges (very smart) for shifting .......... my only concern is the more speeds we get the thinner all components become and shorter life ensues .. but I guess in this world we live in now no one keeps anything long enough for it to wear out !!!
Shimano just released link glide for 12 speed mtb, it’s a harder wearing cassette to last longer. So they could do it if they want.
That new groupset has you scattering leaves as you fly by Si! Nicely done and a great description of the new Ultegra. Wonder when they'll be off the container ships anchored off the coast of California?
Due to COVID supply chain issues, my rim brake Merckx got Ultegra R8000 mechanical crank set and brakes, and R9100 Dura Ace shifters, cassette and chain. I think I’m good for the nest decade or so! And the prices are getting absurd … saw a $20K mountain bike on the floor of a LBS last week 🤯. Also Si what ergonomic bars are you using on that Orbea?
The shoes are the real stars here
Just think about if you can connect the gearset to your head unit with the Wahoo you could use the leds as a rev counter to tell you to change gear to keep optimal cadence 😂
Haha. That was sick
thanks Si /guys, you've helped e decide. I was wondering about Sram, but their crazy proprietary decision, increased price and weight and apparent lower performance means I'm staying Shimano and going for this new Ultra. Looks great .. though it should be for almost triple what I paid for my caad12 105 disc (2nd hand)!
Very nice group set in my opinion! I prefer Ultegra over Dura Ace as I believe the Ultegra components are a bit more robust and less breakable than the Dura Ace components. There is always a cost for lower weight, and its probably not a big difference, but it is a difference. I have the previous generation (8000) on my bike, and I'll probably upgrade to the 8100 group in a few years when my current group is showing its age.
"Jag var på väg hem. Det var mörkt och dimmigt. Jag gick förbi kyrkan och jag kände mig iakttagen." There's a late autumn mood :D
I’ve got a bike with the new Ultegra 2x12 Di2 on order, supposed to be here next month.
Congrats. Which brand?
@@meibing4912 Motobecane. From an online retailer. I have one of their 11 speed Ultegra Di2 bikes that I purchased about three years ago. Great value for the price. I may rebuild the bike with a different frame in the future. Looking at a Velobuild or Yoeleo frame. But, first is a set of carbon wheels. The bike cost me $3000, price since increased to $4000. So, I don't mind upgrading other components.