XTR DI2 at Last

Big news this week for Shimano enjoyers, they finally joined the electronic shifting party, just a few years after everybody else! It comes with some unique features that make it stand out among stiff competition from SRAM.

New and Old

The new XTR DI2 comes with some updates to the physical derailleur, as well as some new features for the wireless DI2 to work properly. The traditional Shimano clutch has been changed out for a dual spring design that is supposed to bring greater chain retention and less fading over time that some previous Shimano clutches have been known for. They have also made many design tweaks, with the look and the styling to work with the bulkier look to fit the battery and motors.

New old style

Completely new is everything relating to the electronic shifting, developed in house by Shimano. The standout feature is the impact recovery feature. Taking the opposite approach to SRAM’s approach of making the derailleur never move with no derailleur hangar, Shimano has a internal gear, that on impact slips the derailleur out of the way before moving it back to the gear it was in before the impact.

Shifter compatibility

The new and improved shifter also comes with some tweaks and features to make it stand out. The triggers are designed to have a mechanical feel to them, making them feel better to use coming from mechanical shifting. They also have full adjustability for up and down, side to side, and rotation to allow you to place the triggers exactly where you want them.

Full XTR Revamp

Along with the drivechain comes a full XTR line revamp, including cranks, hubs, brakes, chains, and more. They all have received updates to increase durability and usability, making XTR even better of a group set for those looking for the best performance possible.

Happy Adventuring!

-Peter