Shimano’s 12-speed GRX gravel groupset has gone electric – although GRX Di2 currently only applies to the 2x version of the groupset.
With patent applications surfacing that hint at 13-speed cassettes and/or fully wireless shifting, it’s reasonable to expect that when GRX Di2 1x does finally surface it will be a seismic change, but for the moment this update offers up relatively few surprises.
As expected, the brakes and drivetrain options (a sub-compact 48/31 chainset plus 11-34t and 11-36t cassettes) are carried over from mechanical 12-speed GRX.
Meanwhile, the bits that shift the chain around are basically a more rugged version of Shimano’s semi-wireless road format (wireless shifters talking to derailleurs that are wired to a seatpost-mounted battery).
The rear derailleur carries over previous GRX’s clutch mechanism, and the shifters’ well-regarded shape is retained too, albeit with some refinements.
Shimano says the dual control levers are optimised for flared bars, with a rounder body shape that eases the transition from hoods to drops, while the grippy texturing is less pronounced on the hoods but more so on the upshift paddles for better comfort and control.
As gravel continues to trend towards 1x as standard, some riders will want to wait for GRX Di2 1x, but for the more traditional rider this unfussy update will be just what they’re looking for.
Want to see Shimano’s new 12-speed GRX Di2 in action?
AU Price $3,341.83
Web: bike.shimano.com
