Shimano & Sram locking their electronic groups to a set number of speeds is a scam, there is nothing stopping them from offering them to work with other numbers of speeds.
Agreed, they just want to make sure people pay through their noses for features that don't cost much to implement, or to force them to buy stuff they don't need (like the entire 12-spd gearset when all you need is an electronic derailleur)
No different from Shimano intentionally making their electronic road and gravel groups incompatible with their electronic MTB groups. Same with SRAM and their 28.99 mm DUB bottom bracket intentionally designed for incompatibility with competing products.
It is, 100%. I’m pretty sure these have already been hacked, though, or that there is an open-source software version available somewhere. They lock the software so they get max money from OEMs and those that have to go the official route, but - once again - things are different for those who know how to tinker.
This is a great review! The best I've seen so far on YT about this product and exactly what I've been waiting for. My compliments to you OZCycle. Well done!
@@everythingRICHARDIFY Initial setup took some time when adjusting setting for each cassette/wheel. After that, now 800 km on each bike, all is good. On both, battery went down to 50 and 60%. How good it is? I have NO experience using SRAM eTap or Di2, so I am unable to give a 100% comparison, but I replaced old mechanical 10 speed Dura Ace and 11 speed 105 which in my opinion worked perfectly, and these now work as good.
Great review! I purchased A rim brake EDS TX set last month for my bike and it's been nothing but amazing. Besides the comfort and set it and forget it ease of maintenance of an electronic groupset, for us rim brake lovers it's also a great improvement in the bike asthetics, 2 cables less coming out the handlebar leaves the bike almost as clean as a fully internal disc brake one. Also I like better the fully wireless design of the wheeltop set, I was considering upgrading to an Ultegra R8150 and besides of course the much greater cost I was not a big fan of the internal electrical setup, I think the internal frame battery and cables are such an outdated tech. Keep the great content coming, greetings from Colombia!!!
@@becyk_du_quebec I ride about 300kms per week and I have also used the Race mode quite a lot. So far I've only have had to charge it once in the month that I've used it, and that includes all the shifting done back and forth while calibrating it to perfection.
I got also the rim brake version. But i use wirh mechanical discs. After 530km no problems so far. Batteries at 70%...still the first charge. No problems so far. Installation was a little bit tricky. Use it with a 9speed system. shimano sora 50-34 crank and 12-25 cassette at the back...all i need
Top review, well done, no faff, straight talking and easy to follow. I was worried about batteries being fixed, but when you can replace, they are top job. Cheers.
Thank you for the detailed review as always. I'm currently running campagnolo ekar 13 speed, but I wanted to build a flat bar mullet drivetrain on my gravel frame ever since I saw the wheeltop wireless mountain bike shifting system. Not only will this future-proof the upcoming 14 speed, the cross-board compatibility can really revive the old 6- 7- 8- speed with modern frames and wheelsets. Cheers.
that solution of making just 1 system which fits all gear no on the cassette shows how big companies like shimano/sram dont give a shit about a consumer who can have still older revision of their groupset, need to replace just a one piece and there would be no spare parts.
Very nice, I love the fact that we have viable alternatives against the big 3. I myself use an ltwoo r9, and it's flawless. That said, I am not sold on electronic shifting. I don't want to turn my bicycle into a gadget that relies on power other than my own muscles...
Eat review dude.. lots of these vid about at the moment it yours is very thorough 😊 thanks.. look forward to seeing youuild and ride this system 😊 Pete 🚴🏻👍🌞
Fantastic tech. I like the ability to use this system with rim brakes. I’m an antediluvian, though, when it comes to electronics on road bikes. The only batteries I use are for my bike lights. For me, electronic shifting is akin to putting an elevator in a one story building. It’s more weight, and more complexity that I don’t want to deal with. (Maybe I should be riding a penny farthing. 😱)
nice introduction of the set, just a quick reminder that when comparing the sizes of the lever assemblies it might be better to have a up to date di2 sti, the mechanical r8000 sti you held against the other one is obviously a lot larger
Looks like a bettter alternative to Shimano and Sram for my next major upgrade. Really like the rim version but just missing reach adjustment for me as I have small hands. Will keep an eye on their next version.
Pricing is completely off. I run the numbers using the prices of a popular online retailer, and a Shimano 105 kit with the same components ends up costing about 900 EUR compared to the 750 EUR of the Wheeltop kit. Why would anyone risk it with an unknown brand with no credentials and no distribution network in the EU? If you need a spare part for Shimano you can very likely buy it immediately in a local brick and mortar store, or order it online and have it in a few days. Let's not even get started with a potential warranty claim.
Good luck getting ANY spares for a 12-speed Shimano DuraAce DI2. A shift lever, for example. You'll learn that Shimano doesn't even offer any! So their suggested way to fix a broken lever (after a crash, for example) is to BUY A NEW STI! Go google what those cost. Shimano used to be a great company, but they've just become a profit optimzing corporation lately...
You can get any spare parts in Germany, even if you just need the pulley, you can get it anywhere online here. BUT even the XT chain right now costs 40€ like wtf? I am really blown away from the wheeltop gear set, might getting it for my road bike which has the 105…
Doesn't excuse the fact that Shimano has been building crap for outrageous prices, my 105 series one of the shift levels failed after 35 days unfortunately Shimano had no answers but a TH-cam video had the solution, as far as I'm concerned Shimano equals 💩 including customer service.
I have this group set in the USA and I have to tell ya it’s awesome, “shifts on spot,”, the only thing is the app is a pain to understand in the instructions. Once ya get the app down it’s really easy to set up from there. One of the best things is, is that it’s affordable as of now, but as the EDS TX is getting more popular it will become more expensive in the future.
Campagnolo wire shift for life! My Colnago from 2002 with Campagnolo Record group set still works flawless. One service some years ago, replacing a spring in the rear shifter lever, and I have replaced the inner shifter cabels a few trimes. But of course if some parts wears out, and new parts is not available, perhaps I go for Wheeltop?
@@dgasmd1 From Wheeltop`s homepage:The app allows you to customize the speed and gear spacing, so in theory, it can support 3-14 speeds cassettes from all brands.
Thank you really interested to see the build and importantly the ride experience using them. Overall, where do they sit in the Shimano/Sram scale of things 105/Rival, Ultegra/Force or Dura Ace/Red? Great review Thank you
Ok, let's have a look at the price: $1185 AUD for the lot. Right now I can buy (without hunting for deals) Shimano RD-R7150 105 Di2 Rear Derailleur 12-Speed - $247 AUD, Shimano FD-R7150 105 Di2 12 Speed Braze-on Front Derailluer - $134 AUD, brake calipers - 105 around $130 a pop but SLX is almost the same and is around $50 bucks... levers 105 could not find price quickly, but found right ultegra di2 for $222, let's multiply by x2 - $444. Total Di2 plus Ultegra levers = $1219. I am sure if one hunts for bargains 105/Ultegra/SLX set can be purchased for the same price if not cheaper as the Wheeltop. It is a further indication that even brand new Chinese manufacturers no one heard off no longer use aggressive pricing, instead they try to win customers by offering extra features, but it is hard to argue that their products are less polished and less reliable. 1. I agree on the main selling point, you are not bound to certain number of gears. On the other hand, gear standards last about the same time as a frame, so one may as well buy a new bike instead of upgrading components. What’s the point of having ultra new and expensive x14 gear drivetrain on a retro 10 year old frame? 2. Steve, why do you keep saying that all that is needed for the upgrade is just the cassette and a chain? What about the chainring(s)? (Which in turn may lead to a crankset upgrade)
@@puntoycoma47 Oh please... retro, outdated, it's just the use of words. Don't you agree that 10 year old frame looks and functions a little different? Think tyre clearances, aerodynamics, weight, stifness etc. Who would want the newest and greatest groupset on that?
I was considering this groupset, but after this introduction, I'd say it's still not good enough. Firstly for their hose designs, they go mineral oil, but SRAM's oliver, that's too weird. Secondly, the async button layout. I really love the Shimano layout even if I do not have any button assigned to front shifting, both hand can do up/down shift for the rear derailleur, meanwhile front shifting is handled automatically (the sync-shift functionality). I really enjoy the ability to shift up/down with a single hand. The extra competition is good, but I'm afraid it's not yet enough.
These will address what Shimano and their cohert deals with bike frame companies by leaving out millions of rim brake bikes. I think this is the biggest blunder in Shimano's history by leaving out this market to other companies and as we can see they are targeting the Rim brake older bikes. Already been using this for a while and yes YOU DO NOT NEED A NEW BIKE!!!.
I hate the fact that the consumer is being literally forced to ride a disk road bike today, especially if they're a complete noob, who comes to a bike shop and becomes a victim of marketing.
I luv disc brakes after having hydraulics on a mountain bike . Disc sooo much better on and off road. like steel than alloy now carbon frames. its called evolution. IMO. but to each their own .
@@dilligaf2818 Alloy was a mistake. Steel is far superior to aluminium. The only reason aluminium is used in the industry is because it's easier to make things out of and it's cheaper.
This evolution you calling reminds me of fashion industry. Sorry, there is no evolution in cycling currently, as my 2014 storck weighs less than today's 20k $ specialized
@dilligaf2818 Disc brakes make perfect sense for MTBs and bikes regularly encountering lots of rain/snow where the breaking on a rim can be compromised. For a road bike that spends the majority of its time riding in dry conditions it is most certainly not an evolution. They are significantly heavier and less aero than a rim brake, much more finicky to maintain versus a rim brake, require their pads to be changed much more often than a rim brake and require much more time and cost to service than a rim brake. Worst of all, for a road rider that rides primarily in dry conditions they provide no meaningful improvement in braking performance despite BS marketing claims to the contrary. Pros are still regularly having crashes by blowing turns with disc brakes (Vingegaard a perfect example) and the rotors on a disc brake are actually far more subject to overheating and warping on a typical road bike warm weather high speed long descent versus the rim on a typical rim brake wheel. Unless you are riding carbon rimmed wheels or are regularly riding in wet stuff a disc brake offers no meaningful performance benefit over a rim brake for road bike use. The so called evolution/innovation of it is just as silly as hookless rims and tubeless tires are for road bikes. Just some marketing gimmicks advertised as “innovation.” I’ll take a rim brake wheel and a TPU tube 7 days a week over a disc brake wheel running hookless rims and tubeless tires. My setup is significantly lighter (like approaching 2 lbs lighter) , more aero because you do not have two rotors sticking out from each wheel, far easier to maintain, far less costly to maintain, safer because I do not have to worry about blowing a tire off a hookless rim, and will brake as well or better than a disc brake set up in well over 90% of road bike riding applications.
I tried to find a "green" Abbey chain checker but none available anywhere at the moment . Using Park at the moment . I saw Van Rysel at Decathlon Auburn recently with a friend who is local to me .
Magene are about to release their version as well. This can only be good news for potential customers. In my opinion the overall aesthetics of the ltwoo Erx is superior. Especially the updated blue edition. Two other reviewer's mentioned that the indexing was not as easy to navigate with the wheeltop. Good detailed review though.
Thank you OZ. I've been wanting these since I've came across them recently on TH-cam... and watched other videos that left me with some questions and concerns. You have answered these! But.....Why can't we get them here in the US? I'm not getting a clear answer from Wheeltop.
I have lived for 6 years in China before 20 years in the USA, I own a wheeltop eds tx with a 13 speed cassette, everything works very well and I am very satisfied .In China, the 13 speed 11-34 cassette is already produced and there is an announcement that in 3 months the xdr 14 speed 10-36 cassette will be released ,chains for 13 speed have been produced for a year,the same chain will be able to be used for 14 speed ,what is happening now in China in the bicycle industry is frame 650 gram with a fork 870-890 gram , formed two companies ltwoo and wheeltop that produce groups of high quality fixtures and applicable from 7 to 14 speed no need to buy a new flu when the cartridge manufacturer will release a cartridge for 13 or 14 speed. greetings from Shenyang China.
What’s the point in 11 or 12 speeds? Guys for decades and decades literally had no issues finding a suitable gear on 2X 7 and 8 speed set ups and that is no exaggeration. 😀
@@ivanboesky1520 sure but at this point it's basically diminishing returns and we aren't gaining any benefits other than increased maintenance.... stuff like the classified hub should be the future
Disappointing that there will be no gravel-road-MTB cross compatibility because one of the greatest features of electronic shifting is mixing of road bike group set with a MTB cassette for proper gravel bike setup.
Getting a lot of reviews of this set. You can get a full DI2 105 for a 1k and that comes with crank, chain and cassette. Since these seem pretty unproven and with comparison to the 105 price it does not seem like that good of deal. LTWOO sets have been getting reviewed for the last year and half and seems to have preformed well even in the long term reviews. The only thing that is super cool is the gear range compatibility. Shimano and Sram are obviously keeping their stuff locked to 12 speed.
Not being detachable it is a no go for me, I don't have a power source where I keep the bicycle, also it seems to be impossible to replace just the battery if it got damaged
Does anyone know for a FACT if these shifters are equally compatible with Campagnolo cassettes/chains/cranks? That would awesome for this price point to update some older rim brake bikes currently with all Campy wheels and gears to electronic.
Can you get the hydraulic system without the callipers? If I can stick to using my existing 105 hydraulic callipers from my 105 mechanical, it would be nice to be able to just buy the shifters and mech.
@@stevenleffanue I got a response from the manufacturer. Gravel bike version of the gravel group will be available in early September. At present, our prototypes are in the factory testing stage and we can only give you reference values. We may launch two versions, one with RD rail length of 75mm and gear range of 11t-45t, and another with RD rail length of 95mm and gear range of 11t-51t.
Because of the waterproofing seal its not advisable to change the battery by yourself. However you can do it ...4 bolts holding it on....and the batteries are available from battery shops. Just be careful putting the battery cover back in place.
@@stevenleffanue I would imagine the closer it reaches 2000 recharges the weaker the battery. I get why they designed it the way they did to avoid SRAMS patent. I still don't like it personally but to each their own
It is possible to replace the batteries inside the casing...un-screw the 4 bolts holding the casing , replace with new batteries. Replace casing , making sure it is sealed properly for waterproofing. Done.
Yes , you can email Wheeltop service for help with that. If n when warranty is up you can open up the battery cover and change the individual batteries yourself. Screw the cover back on the derailleur evenly to ensure a weather proof seal. Done.
Mr Oz. Do you know if I can use a bigger cassette than the recommended 10-36T? Currently I use 11-42T 11-Speed on my Ultegra using the Wolftooth roadLink.... on my Ultegra 12Sp, I was told I can push a 11-36T or even a 11-39 with no extra modifications..
You won't be able to use cassettes larger than what Shimano recommends unless you use something like the Wolftooth roadlink. If you do install a cassette that is too large then the rear derailleur jockey wheels will impact the cassette cogs, damaging both.
Wolf tooth extender works OK, but if you find gears not selecting as fast as without the extender even when the B-screw has been adjusted appropriately , best to go a longer cage derailleur.
@@stevenleffanue are you saying there is a wolf tooth for 12 speed Shimano? What about this new system oz is talking about? Ideally we need a longer cage RD from wheeltop.
Shimano & Sram locking their electronic groups to a set number of speeds is a scam, there is nothing stopping them from offering them to work with other numbers of speeds.
Agreed, they just want to make sure people pay through their noses for features that don't cost much to implement, or to force them to buy stuff they don't need (like the entire 12-spd gearset when all you need is an electronic derailleur)
No different from Shimano intentionally making their electronic road and gravel groups incompatible with their electronic MTB groups. Same with SRAM and their 28.99 mm DUB bottom bracket intentionally designed for incompatibility with competing products.
It is, 100%. I’m pretty sure these have already been hacked, though, or that there is an open-source software version available somewhere. They lock the software so they get max money from OEMs and those that have to go the official route, but - once again - things are different for those who know how to tinker.
@@wtfiswiththosehandles and they could have firmware like wheeltop that allows you to change the number of speeds
You can mix and match Di2 between road and MTB though....
This is a great review! The best I've seen so far on YT about this product and exactly what I've been waiting for. My compliments to you OZCycle. Well done!
Already have it on two bikes (10 speed and 11); works just as it should.
how is it performing so far? and what's your mileage on it?
@@everythingRICHARDIFY Initial setup took some time when adjusting setting for each cassette/wheel. After that, now 800 km on each bike, all is good. On both, battery went down to 50 and 60%.
How good it is? I have NO experience using SRAM eTap or Di2, so I am unable to give a 100% comparison, but I replaced old mechanical 10 speed Dura Ace and 11 speed 105 which in my opinion worked perfectly, and these now work as good.
Great review! I purchased A rim brake EDS TX set last month for my bike and it's been nothing but amazing. Besides the comfort and set it and forget it ease of maintenance of an electronic groupset, for us rim brake lovers it's also a great improvement in the bike asthetics, 2 cables less coming out the handlebar leaves the bike almost as clean as a fully internal disc brake one. Also I like better the fully wireless design of the wheeltop set, I was considering upgrading to an Ultegra R8150 and besides of course the much greater cost I was not a big fan of the internal electrical setup, I think the internal frame battery and cables are such an outdated tech. Keep the great content coming, greetings from Colombia!!!
Great feedback on your rim brake version. Cheers 👍
how is the battery life? Some people have been mentioning theirs only last 500 to 600km... That's not a lot for people that ride every day
@@becyk_du_quebec I ride about 300kms per week and I have also used the Race mode quite a lot. So far I've only have had to charge it once in the month that I've used it, and that includes all the shifting done back and forth while calibrating it to perfection.
where you bought it? Their official website or other channels like Aliexpress. thx
I got also the rim brake version. But i use wirh mechanical discs. After 530km no problems so far. Batteries at 70%...still the first charge.
No problems so far. Installation was a little bit tricky. Use it with a 9speed system.
shimano sora 50-34 crank and 12-25 cassette at the back...all i need
Top review, well done, no faff, straight talking and easy to follow. I was worried about batteries being fixed, but when you can replace, they are top job. Cheers.
Теперь ещё батарейки возить с собой вместе с камерами?
Great insight into new products that challenge the old guard. Thanks
Трос лучше и надёжнее.
must be a most thorough review on internet! every little aspect covered. nice work!
Very Nice and Descriptive Presentation . . . Thank you
Thank you for the detailed review as always. I'm currently running campagnolo ekar 13 speed, but I wanted to build a flat bar mullet drivetrain on my gravel frame ever since I saw the wheeltop wireless mountain bike shifting system. Not only will this future-proof the upcoming 14 speed, the cross-board compatibility can really revive the old 6- 7- 8- speed with modern frames and wheelsets. Cheers.
A small thing but Shimano has been excellent with their dedication to 100% paper/recyclable packaging. It's something more brands need to do.
This is definitly most important thing when you're byuing cycling components
Great review! I love my eds tx groupset too. purchased from amazon shipped to US cheaper and faster than Aliexpress
that solution of making just 1 system which fits all gear no on the cassette shows how big companies like shimano/sram dont give a shit about a consumer who can have still older revision of their groupset, need to replace just a one piece and there would be no spare parts.
I love mine EDS TX, I have it on a steel bike and you just forget it’s there, it works and haven’t had a single issue in hundreds of miles
Very nice, I love the fact that we have viable alternatives against the big 3.
I myself use an ltwoo r9, and it's flawless. That said, I am not sold on electronic shifting. I don't want to turn my bicycle into a gadget that relies on power other than my own muscles...
I'm sure both SRAM and Shimano could make their electronic gear compatible for future 12-13-14 speed. But it's better for their wallet not to do it.
Зачем 12 на кассете если 8-9 достаточно
I know uncle Oz will like the rim version😁
Thanks for your review. As always, great job.
Eat review dude.. lots of these vid about at the moment it yours is very thorough 😊 thanks.. look forward to seeing youuild and ride this system 😊 Pete 🚴🏻👍🌞
Cheers Pete. Yeh , proof is in the pudding. It does seem very well made tho , not like usual cheap Chinese produce.
@@stevenleffanue yes I gotta say it does look well made.. I’m a campy guy rim brake chorus etc but this has me a little interested 👍👍
Fantastic tech. I like the ability to use this system with rim brakes. I’m an antediluvian, though, when it comes to electronics on road bikes. The only batteries I use are for my bike lights. For me, electronic shifting is akin to putting an elevator in a one story building. It’s more weight, and more complexity that I don’t want to deal with. (Maybe I should be riding a penny farthing. 😱)
great vid, also the weight comparison
Very informative and a simple explanation of the new Wheeltop groupset.
nice introduction of the set, just a quick reminder that when comparing the sizes of the lever assemblies it might be better to have a up to date di2 sti, the mechanical r8000 sti you held against the other one is obviously a lot larger
Best video on this Wheeltop EDS Tx! Thanks
Looks like a bettter alternative to Shimano and Sram for my next major upgrade. Really like the rim version but just missing reach adjustment for me as I have small hands. Will keep an eye on their next version.
i hope their update cross-compatibility across MTB, road & gravel like SRAM does
This is amazing for people who want to bring their rim brake bike up to date, definitely one to consider.
Will keep an eye out for a long term review.
Great review as always with much details. One of my favorite channels. Ty 🙏🙏
Excellent video as usual! Thanks so much for professional info.
Pricing is completely off. I run the numbers using the prices of a popular online retailer, and a Shimano 105 kit with the same components ends up costing about 900 EUR compared to the 750 EUR of the Wheeltop kit. Why would anyone risk it with an unknown brand with no credentials and no distribution network in the EU? If you need a spare part for Shimano you can very likely buy it immediately in a local brick and mortar store, or order it online and have it in a few days. Let's not even get started with a potential warranty claim.
am sure it will get there eventually, think about how quick this stuff has appeared
Good luck getting ANY spares for a 12-speed Shimano DuraAce DI2. A shift lever, for example. You'll learn that Shimano doesn't even offer any! So their suggested way to fix a broken lever (after a crash, for example) is to BUY A NEW STI! Go google what those cost. Shimano used to be a great company, but they've just become a profit optimzing corporation lately...
Spares on shimano stuff?.
I want some of that thing you're smoking, shimano does not sell spares.
You can get any spare parts in Germany, even if you just need the pulley, you can get it anywhere online here. BUT even the XT chain right now costs 40€ like wtf? I am really blown away from the wheeltop gear set, might getting it for my road bike which has the 105…
Doesn't excuse the fact that Shimano has been building crap for outrageous prices, my 105 series one of the shift levels failed after 35 days unfortunately Shimano had no answers but a TH-cam video had the solution, as far as I'm concerned Shimano equals 💩 including customer service.
Very thorough review thanks.
talking about shimano plastic trim on the FD, I remember mine went missing only after first few rides 😂
impressive review!
I have this group set in the USA and I have to tell ya it’s awesome, “shifts on spot,”, the only thing is the app is a pain to understand in the instructions. Once ya get the app down it’s really easy to set up from there. One of the best things is, is that it’s affordable as of now, but as the EDS TX is getting more popular it will become more expensive in the future.
Campagnolo Super Record Wireless 12v for life🔝🔝🔝🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹👍🏻🙋♂️🙋♂️
I'm waiting for long term reviews and hope for magene groupset.
I don't see a problem with central/replaceable battery in the seat tube.
Campagnolo wire shift for life! My Colnago from 2002 with Campagnolo Record group set still works flawless. One service some years ago, replacing a spring in the rear shifter lever, and I have replaced the inner shifter cabels a few trimes. But of course if some parts wears out, and new parts is not available, perhaps I go for Wheeltop?
I have Chorus from 2005. Same thing. I just put on a new cassette, chain and pulley wheels and it works flawlessly again.
Campag wears in not out , also looks awesome 😘
Are these shifter compatible with Campagnolo cassettes and chains and cranks??
@@dgasmd1supposedly they are compatible with anything. They are micro adjustable.
@@dgasmd1 From Wheeltop`s homepage:The app allows you to customize the speed and gear spacing, so in theory, it can support 3-14 speeds cassettes from all brands.
Thank you really interested to see the build and importantly the ride experience using them. Overall, where do they sit in the Shimano/Sram scale of things 105/Rival, Ultegra/Force or Dura Ace/Red? Great review Thank you
thank again for your review ...I'll stick with Shimano though.
Would be interesting to know how Wheetltop EDS got around SRAM’s patents on the wireless derailleur patents.
The most actionable part is the removeable matching batteries --that's why Campy's new system has different batteries front and rear.
좋은 리뷰 감사합니다. 제 자전거 구동계에 대한 소중한 정보를 얻고 갑니다^^
Ok, let's have a look at the price: $1185 AUD for the lot. Right now I can buy (without hunting for deals) Shimano RD-R7150 105 Di2 Rear Derailleur 12-Speed - $247 AUD, Shimano FD-R7150 105 Di2 12 Speed Braze-on Front Derailluer - $134 AUD, brake calipers - 105 around $130 a pop but SLX is almost the same and is around $50 bucks... levers 105 could not find price quickly, but found right ultegra di2 for $222, let's multiply by x2 - $444. Total Di2 plus Ultegra levers = $1219. I am sure if one hunts for bargains 105/Ultegra/SLX set can be purchased for the same price if not cheaper as the Wheeltop. It is a further indication that even brand new Chinese manufacturers no one heard off no longer use aggressive pricing, instead they try to win customers by offering extra features, but it is hard to argue that their products are less polished and less reliable.
1. I agree on the main selling point, you are not bound to certain number of gears. On the other hand, gear standards last about the same time as a frame, so one may as well buy a new bike instead of upgrading components. What’s the point of having ultra new and expensive x14 gear drivetrain on a retro 10 year old frame?
2. Steve, why do you keep saying that all that is needed for the upgrade is just the cassette and a chain? What about the chainring(s)? (Which in turn may lead to a crankset upgrade)
If a 10 year old frame is considered "retro", we are royally screwed.
@@puntoycoma47 Oh please... retro, outdated, it's just the use of words. Don't you agree that 10 year old frame looks and functions a little different? Think tyre clearances, aerodynamics, weight, stifness etc. Who would want the newest and greatest groupset on that?
I was considering this groupset, but after this introduction, I'd say it's still not good enough.
Firstly for their hose designs, they go mineral oil, but SRAM's oliver, that's too weird.
Secondly, the async button layout. I really love the Shimano layout even if I do not have any button assigned to front shifting, both hand can do up/down shift for the rear derailleur, meanwhile front shifting is handled automatically (the sync-shift functionality). I really enjoy the ability to shift up/down with a single hand.
The extra competition is good, but I'm afraid it's not yet enough.
wheeltop says that you can adjust the leavers in rim brake version
Cut the price in half, I'm interested. At their current price it's a no go.
I’m lying in bed watching this video wondering how many fingers do I wrap around my shifter!
I've been waiting for wireless brakes, next 2-3 years and we would be able to brake from our sofa at home ; )
These will address what Shimano and their cohert deals with bike frame companies by leaving out millions of rim brake bikes. I think this is the biggest blunder in Shimano's history by leaving out this market to other companies and as we can see they are targeting the Rim brake older bikes. Already been using this for a while and yes YOU DO NOT NEED A NEW BIKE!!!.
I hate the fact that the consumer is being literally forced to ride a disk road bike today, especially if they're a complete noob, who comes to a bike shop and becomes a victim of marketing.
I luv disc brakes after having hydraulics on a mountain bike . Disc sooo much better on and off road. like steel than alloy now carbon frames. its called evolution. IMO. but to each their own .
@@dilligaf2818 Alloy was a mistake. Steel is far superior to aluminium. The only reason aluminium is used in the industry is because it's easier to make things out of and it's cheaper.
This evolution you calling reminds me of fashion industry. Sorry, there is no evolution in cycling currently, as my 2014 storck weighs less than today's 20k $ specialized
@dilligaf2818
Disc brakes make perfect sense for MTBs and bikes regularly encountering lots of rain/snow where the breaking on a rim can be compromised. For a road bike that spends the majority of its time riding in dry conditions it is most certainly not an evolution. They are significantly heavier and less aero than a rim brake, much more finicky to maintain versus a rim brake, require their pads to be changed much more often than a rim brake and require much more time and cost to service than a rim brake. Worst of all, for a road rider that rides primarily in dry conditions they provide no meaningful improvement in braking performance despite BS marketing claims to the contrary. Pros are still regularly having crashes by blowing turns with disc brakes (Vingegaard a perfect example) and the rotors on a disc brake are actually far more subject to overheating and warping on a typical road bike warm weather high speed long descent versus the rim on a typical rim brake wheel. Unless you are riding carbon rimmed wheels or are regularly riding in wet stuff a disc brake offers no meaningful performance benefit over a rim brake for road bike use. The so called evolution/innovation of it is just as silly as hookless rims and tubeless tires are for road bikes. Just some marketing gimmicks advertised as “innovation.”
I’ll take a rim brake wheel and a TPU tube 7 days a week over a disc brake wheel running hookless rims and tubeless tires. My setup is significantly lighter (like approaching 2 lbs lighter) , more aero because you do not have two rotors sticking out from each wheel, far easier to maintain, far less costly to maintain, safer because I do not have to worry about blowing a tire off a hookless rim, and will brake as well or better than a disc brake set up in well over 90% of road bike riding applications.
I tried to find a "green" Abbey chain checker but none available anywhere at the moment . Using Park at the moment . I saw Van Rysel at Decathlon Auburn recently with a friend who is local to me .
Cool Kit, Looks Well Made.
I Must admit i still prefer a Vintage Road Bike and Use Downtube Shifters & Rim Brakes 😁 🇬🇧🖖
The plastic skid plate only exists on mechanical Shimano FDs. Di2 FDs have auto trim so don't need the skid plate.
Fantastic review . Thank you.
For how long the battery last? is there a problem with batteries going flat while bike is moving, for example in a car during transport?
Fantastic review. One question, does it run with campy mechanic 12s ? Thanks
Magene are about to release their version as well. This can only be good news for potential customers. In my opinion the overall aesthetics of the ltwoo Erx is superior. Especially the updated blue edition. Two other reviewer's mentioned that the indexing was not as easy to navigate with the wheeltop. Good detailed review though.
Thank you OZ. I've been wanting these since I've came across them recently on TH-cam... and watched other videos that left me with some questions and concerns. You have answered these! But.....Why can't we get them here in the US? I'm not getting a clear answer from Wheeltop.
thank you very much good information.
excellent presentation
Great review. thank you
Thanks for the 20euro saving 🫶 good video as always, just ordered the rim brake version for my old bike. 😂
Nice OZ cycle!
I have lived for 6 years in China before 20 years in the USA, I own a wheeltop eds tx with a 13 speed cassette, everything works very well and I am very satisfied .In China, the 13 speed 11-34 cassette is already produced and there is an announcement that in 3 months the xdr 14 speed 10-36 cassette will be released ,chains for 13 speed have been produced for a year,the same chain will be able to be used for 14 speed ,what is happening now in China in the bicycle industry is frame 650 gram with a fork 870-890 gram , formed two companies ltwoo and wheeltop that produce groups of high quality fixtures and applicable from 7 to 14 speed no need to buy a new flu when the cartridge manufacturer will release a cartridge for 13 or 14 speed. greetings from Shenyang China.
@@yurekkowski339 what's the point in 13/14 speed? is it worth the durability loss?
What’s the point in 11 or 12 speeds?
Guys for decades and decades literally had no issues finding a suitable gear on 2X 7 and 8 speed set ups and that is no exaggeration. 😀
@@ivanboesky1520 sure but at this point it's basically diminishing returns and we aren't gaining any benefits other than increased maintenance.... stuff like the classified hub should be the future
SRAM axs rival rear derailleur and blips for TT, 400 euro job done
Disappointing that there will be no gravel-road-MTB cross compatibility because one of the greatest features of electronic shifting is mixing of road bike group set with a MTB cassette for proper gravel bike setup.
I wonder if the battery can be sold because of SRAM's patent.
Shimano and Trp are showing new eshift at eurobike 24 think we'll be seeing alot more new shimano soon
Getting a lot of reviews of this set. You can get a full DI2 105 for a 1k and that comes with crank, chain and cassette. Since these seem pretty unproven and with comparison to the 105 price it does not seem like that good of deal. LTWOO sets have been getting reviewed for the last year and half and seems to have preformed well even in the long term reviews. The only thing that is super cool is the gear range compatibility. Shimano and Sram are obviously keeping their stuff locked to 12 speed.
I recently picked up new Rival AXS for €800, include cranks, chain wheels, bottom bracket etc. Can't fault it.
LoveMTB channel few days ago - "Say Goodbye to SRAM and Shimano - WHEELTOP EDS-TX ROAD Wireless Groupset" 🙃 - people think parallelly
Would be good to have disc without caliper option too.
excellent! time to change for my older bikes as well. do you know how long Shimano will supply the market with 11-speed spare parts?
thanks!
Not being detachable it is a no go for me, I don't have a power source where I keep the bicycle, also it seems to be impossible to replace just the battery if it got damaged
Extension cord?
There are 4 hex screws to undo the battery case and replace the batteries in about 5 years when they're done.
@@stevenleffanue it is a parking area on a building, not possible, unfortunately.. Nice to know the battery is replaceable!
Oh. If it's any consolation, the batteries only need charging once every 2-3months
Shifters look good. They don’t look stupid like SRAM Red or bully like older Shimano mechanical.
Great review. Does it allow for cage replacement? Also what is the trim function like to adjust?
My only concern is the non-removable/non replaceable batteries. Non-future proof.
Batteries can be removed and replaced if necessary.
Does anyone know for a FACT if these shifters are equally compatible with Campagnolo cassettes/chains/cranks? That would awesome for this price point to update some older rim brake bikes currently with all Campy wheels and gears to electronic.
Its all great untill you need spares
Spares will be coming as Wheeltop are just starting to branch out worldwide.
No one needs 13 or 14 it is getting ridiculous
I'm waiting for the one by groupset for gravel.
Yep..."GeX" set should be available soon.
Great idea, missing from this industry 😊
Will it work with Campy? 9, 10 speed?
Yes it will work with Campagnolo cassettes...9,10,11,12.
seems better than shim and sram
do I see correctly that the derailleurs have everywhere alloy screws instead of pins so every single part can be replaced if broken?
Yes , but parts are not available yet
I see the rear derailleur only allows up to 36t. Any idea when the gravel version will be out?
I don't think proprietary battery and app should be mentioned in the same sentence as futureproof.
Maybe a really silly question, but if you had mechanical disc, and for some reason didn’t want to go hydraulic, could you purchase the rim brake kit?
Yes, absolutely.
How does price compare to 105di2 when u exclude the crankset and cassette (which aren’t included by wheeltop)?
Can you get the hydraulic system without the callipers? If I can stick to using my existing 105 hydraulic callipers from my 105 mechanical, it would be nice to be able to just buy the shifters and mech.
No, unfortunately. I'm also using my own hydro Ultegra calipers just because they are already on the bike.
@@stevenleffanue a pity, makes it even more price competitive if you could !
Great review Thanks, Anyone know of ant European distributors? I can but from as it will cost me 740 euros plus 200 euros duty from china
When will they release a gravel 1x group with a larger 10-50 cassette?
All I was told is "very soon".
@@stevenleffanue I got a response from the manufacturer. Gravel bike version of the gravel group will be available in early September.
At present, our prototypes are in the factory testing stage and we can only give you reference values. We may launch two versions, one with RD rail length of 75mm and gear range of 11t-45t, and another with RD rail length of 95mm and gear range of 11t-51t.
Morning all
So is it possible to replace the derailleur batteries? I thought that couldnt be done...
Because of the waterproofing seal its not advisable to change the battery by yourself. However you can do it ...4 bolts holding it on....and the batteries are available from battery shops. Just be careful putting the battery cover back in place.
non-removeable battery? That sucks. That means eventually you'll need to buy a whole new RD when the battery can't hold a charge for long
Battery takes 2000 recharges. Recharge every 2-3 months......
@@stevenleffanue I would imagine the closer it reaches 2000 recharges the weaker the battery.
I get why they designed it the way they did to avoid SRAMS patent. I still don't like it personally but to each their own
It is possible to replace the batteries inside the casing...un-screw the 4 bolts holding the casing , replace with new batteries. Replace casing , making sure it is sealed properly for waterproofing. Done.
2 q. What is the battery life and what happens when the battery starts to ''wear out'' ? With SRAM it easy, get a new one...
About 2000 charges. So if you charge it once every 2-3 months....
Can you combine them with shimano brake calipers?
Yes , absolutely. I'm running Ultegra myself at moment with the Wheeltop shifters...absolutely 👌
What about the weight? Thanks for the video
Weights are in the video
Thank you sir.
Anyone know what the biggest cog size the rear derailleur can handle? Just curious if it can handle a big range for a possible 1x setup.
Russian dude from love bike channel says that derailleur can handle 42t in 1x setup without a problem.
@@Fleckinger that’s good to know. Thanks
Battery replacament - is there an option to buy and change battery if it will degradate/broke/whatever?
Yes , you can email Wheeltop service for help with that. If n when warranty is up you can open up the battery cover and change the individual batteries yourself. Screw the cover back on the derailleur evenly to ensure a weather proof seal. Done.
@@stevenleffanuegreat News! Sound better and better :) the questions is Wheeltop or the updated Ltwoo 😁
No reach adjustments?
Only on hydraulic version
Would the rim brake version work with standard mechanical disk brakes?
Yes it does. Best mechanical disc brake calipers are the hybrid type...cable pull with hydraulic action.
They can always copy but never master it!
I Think that you might be wrong... as everything is made inchina they have all the knowledge from yeeeeeears... give them some time 😉
Will there also be a tt version soon?
Not planned, but maybe in time.
Mr Oz. Do you know if I can use a bigger cassette than the recommended 10-36T? Currently I use 11-42T 11-Speed on my Ultegra using the Wolftooth roadLink.... on my Ultegra 12Sp, I was told I can push a 11-36T or even a 11-39 with no extra modifications..
You won't be able to use cassettes larger than what Shimano recommends unless you use something like the Wolftooth roadlink. If you do install a cassette that is too large then the rear derailleur jockey wheels will impact the cassette cogs, damaging both.
Wolf tooth extender works OK, but if you find gears not selecting as fast as without the extender even when the B-screw has been adjusted appropriately , best to go a longer cage derailleur.
@@stevenleffanue are you saying there is a wolf tooth for 12 speed Shimano? What about this new system oz is talking about? Ideally we need a longer cage RD from wheeltop.
Yes. It's a road bike group. For larger range of gears, wait for their gravel group coming soon.