News
Electronic Dura-ace confirmed
Mark Sutton Aug 1 2008, 10:29am
Comments (5)
Digital Integrated Intelligence (Di2) coming to market in addition to the mechanical Dura-Ace 7900
Shimano has announced the highly anticipated electronic road component series, DURA-ACE with Di2 technology. The products, due in January, will be compatible with the new mechanical DURA-ACE 7900 series. Di2 stands for Digital Integrated Intelligence.
This innovative shift technology is still based on the Shimano Index System. The big difference is that in this case, the shifting action is provided for by electronics instead of mechanics.
This electronic shifting system has been tested extensively over the past two years by several professional riders in all weather and surface conditions.
DURA-ACE 7970 series consists of Dual Control Levers, electronically operated front and rear derailleurs and a battery kit. For the other components, like crankset and brakes, one can rely on the products taken from the new mechanical DURA-ACE 7900 group.
Dual Control Levers
Shifting is executed by simply pressing the button. No power is needed anymore to shift, which gives important advantages since it is easier now to always keep a tight grip on the handlebar and to keep your concentration on riding instead on shifting. The shift system allows accurate and effortless shifting in difficult circumstances like cold hands or when you are completely exhausted. Furthermore, the shifting performance will never be affected by contaminated or stretched cables since the shifting signal is transferred electronically.
The operating buttons work similar to mechanical Dual Control Levers so you don’t need to re-program your mind for a new system. The ergonomic bracket shape provides a greater degree of ergonomics and control for a variety of riders. An optional satellite switch allows shifting from multiple positions on the handlebar.
The Dual Control Levers have been provided with a reach adjustment mechanism which is an ideal feature for people with smaller hands. Furthermore, they are compatible with the new FlightDeck computer SC-7900 that measures data such as heart rate, altitude, cadence, gear position, a battery indicator and much more. FlightDeck works with coded wireless signals that prevent interference from other electronic units.
The new FlightDeck can be used to make a wireless connection with a PC to analyze riding data (software is included), with reserving a potential for functional upgrades through the PC.
Derailleurs
Just pushing the button will shift the front derailleur completely effortless and smooth, even under high load. An additional feature, much appreciated by Shimano's test riders, is the automatic trim function. The chain guide moves automatically in response to the setting of the rear derailleur.
Also the rear derailleur offers remarkable quick and smooth shifts. It has a wide gear ratio (11-27T compatible) and the electronics are well protected from heavy impacts such as crashes. The rear derailleur features a carbon pulley plate and titanium B axle for increased weight savings.
Battery
DURA--ACE Di2 uses a long-life 7.4V Li-Ion battery that is compact and powerful. Excellent reliability and a long lifetime has been proved through repeated field tests in various riding conditions over the last two years. The battery is very easy to mount and remove for charging and it fits any kind of road bike.
The shifting system is not wireless since that would need additional power (and a heavier battery).
Time Trial/Triathlon
DURA-ACE with Di2 technology contributes to Time Trial and Triathlon riding by its multi position shifters. It allows riders to shift while braking, by enjoying an effortless operation even when riding in the aerodynamic position.
Additional to the regular package, a Dual Control Lever ST-7971 with electronic shift buttons for time trial and triathlon usage is introduced. The carbon brake lever has been developed with a reach adjustment mechanism to fit all hand sizes. This Dual Control Lever is compatible with the new FlightDeck computer SC-7900.
Finally, also an electronic satellite switch SW-7971 will be available that can be integrated into time trial handlebar extensions. The shift wires can be guided through the bars for optimal aerodynamics.
More information about the new Dura-Ace 7900 and 7970 series can be found on http://www.dura-ace.com
Comments
“Electronic Dura Ace”
Posted by: BikeRescue - Aug 1, 4:20pm
...and the objectivity in this report is where? just a regurgitated press release full of marketing nonsense.
I've never noticed much 'effort' required on Dura Ace mechanical shifting. One for the fashion victims then.
“Re: Electronic Dura Ace”
Posted by: Christopher - Aug 1, 9:39pm
Utterly pointless - more pollution!
Cycling is about consuming less, not more!
And the advantages are that you can find your gears have run out of juice!
They say there's nothing like progress and this is nothing like progress!
“Re: Re: Electronic Dura Ace”
Posted by: Christopher - Aug 2, 9:27am
For anyone who failed to grasp my comment on increased pollution, I was referring to the additional waste from the discarded Li-ion batteries which will result, completely unnecessarily from the introduction of this pointless product.
Doubtless we can look forward to other inappropriate and useless technologies for bicycles: power steering, airconditioning, electric windows and traction control.
“Electronic Dura Ace”
Posted by: Hamish A - Aug 2, 9:46am
Come on, play fair - we all know that Shimano keep a very tight control on the information that gets released and the way it is allowed to be used. At least they got something beyond the usual 'we saw something, on someones bike, at a race, somewhere' that people usually manage in regard to this system.
As for the polution from the batteries required to power the shifting - why aren't you complaining more about the billions of batteries that are consumed each year in commuting lights, or the ridiculously oversized battery packs required by powered bicycles? At least Li-Ion can be reclaimed and recycled. Would you rather the battery used something really noxious like Ni-mh or Ni-Cad?
This system isn't going to be for everyone and yes, posers will buy it 'just because' but at least Shimano is trying to innovate our current method for shifting gears. Perhaps you'd be more willing to aplaud SRAM if they came up with a similar system?
“Re: Electronic Dura Ace”
Posted by: Bikephil - Aug 4, 8:47pm
The bike industry has been relying on cables to change gears since the first gearing systems came out decades ago.
The two Mavic (electronic) systems and Shimano Airlines were probably too far ahead of the available technology at the time, although it didn't stop a certain Mr. Boardman from setting the fastest ever prologue in 'le Tour'.
Why do we keep relying on cables in this industry? As we all know they stretch, become contaminated in crud in foul weather and need constant adjusting/lubing/replacing in order to keep gear shifting working well.
Technology moves on. Who out there still has a 'housebrick' mobile from ten years ago? We've all changed to better 'phones with a load more features.
I applaud Shimano (and Campag) for investing a serious amount of time and money into these projects which have been under development for years.
To finally release the details, pre-orders and prices is a serious move and I hope one that will be a winner.
Hats off to Shimano in beating Campag to the post first, can't wait to try one out.
Phil.