July 31st, 2008 by 
thien
Shimano announced today that Dura-Ace Di2 7970 Electronic Groupset is in fact ready for production and will be available in January 2009!
For years, Shimano has been testing prototypes of its electronic Dura-Ace system. Pictures have surfaced from time to time of teams in the peloton that were testing the system, but no word on how far along in development it was or when we would see the final product come to fruition and into production. Well, wonder no longer, because Shimano today announced that Dura-Ace Di2 7970 is in fact in production and should start arriving at your local bike shop in January of 2009.
We first saw what looked like a production ready version on Fabian Wegmann’s Specialized bike at the start of the Tour of California. At this year’s tour, we saw an even more polished version of the Di2 on Fabians bike.
The electronic version of Dura Ace, will be an add on feature to the existing 7900 groupset. It has not been announced what the price will be, but we’re figuring it should be somewhat substantial. What you’ll get is two brake-and-shift levers, two derailleurs equipped with servo-motors (instead of the traditional spring), and the 7.4-volt lithium-ion battery pack that will power it all (including wiring harness). Even with the added hassle of having to now carry a lithium-ion battery pack, the whole groupset should weigh in less than 67 grams from the current top of the range 7800. It appears that the upgrade means that Di2 is not crank, cassette, or chain specific…
The Di2 7970 shifters are designed to feel like their mechanical counterparts, but the internal shift mechanisms have been replaced with small touch pads that will send an instantaneous message to the front dearailer, which houses the ultra small computer that controls the whole system, to shift. Potentially these pads could have been placed anywhere, but for the sake of easy transition, they were placed in the traditional location. The ability to place them anywhere will serve a better purpose in a TT bike setup though, where they’ll really make a difference. Both front and rear dearailers have servos, instead of springs, this allows the system to monitor shifts to ensure accurate and precise shifting each time. The system will also be able to adjust itself, so no more worrying about chain rub or cable tension.
Shimano released official photos today…
Have something to add, or want to chime in with your thoughts? We welcome comments below!
Fabian Wegmann photo courtesy of CorVos
August 1st, 2008 at 3:03 am
I’m not sure we “need” electronic shifting… But it is nice to see some innovations coming to market in this area. 2009 looks like a fantasic year in the way of groupset options. Also with all these new groups coming out, I expect to see a fair share of early adopters selling off perfectly good 7800 at great prices! (I hope)… So I say bring on 7900 and 7970!
August 1st, 2008 at 3:39 am
I’ll be curious to see how long the battery will last before performance begins to degrade over time due to multiple uses. The system would be much more appealing if a self generating hub, similar the the nexus hub, was introduced for battery free performance. It’s also interesting that they are comparing the weight of the components to the current and new lines as the battery will certainly “make up” if not exceed the difference in weight savings. We’ll let the weight weenies chime in on that one when the time comes
August 1st, 2008 at 8:18 am
“Even with the added hassle of having to now carry a lithium-ion battery pack, the whole groupset should weigh in less than 67 grams from the current top of the range 7800.”
It would appear that weight isn’t a concern. There wouldn’t be a mechanism to speak of that would weigh down the shifters. For what it’s worth, the weight of cables/housings can be deducted from a build as well.
“The system will also be able to adjust itself, so no more worrying about chain rub or cable tension.”
That sounds awesome. You’d figure someone who has been in the sport long enough and serious enough to consider the cost of Dura Ace would likely feel comfortable doing this themself. It would be nice to have this as a beginner.
August 1st, 2008 at 10:24 am
Is that the battery pack in picture #6? And does it mount under the bottle cage?
Sure seems like it would make for a very minimalist, clean looking build. IMHO, if the battery life is up to snuff, and it’s waterproof, the only downside would be what do you do with the unused cable guide ends…
August 1st, 2008 at 11:29 am
Once people [that can afford it] start to buy the gruppo you’ll hear nothing but praise about how good it is. I’d have no qualms about using the electronic gruppo. Only my wife and bank account would have a problem with it!
I know it’s hard for people to change but the thought of simple fast shifting literally at your fingertips along with the light weight is exciting! I’m glad they are bringing this into fruition.
And for those concerned about the battery… as long as it lasts longer than a 1st gen iPhone I’ll be happy!
Now we wait for Campy to release their electronic gruppo… or did they already make the announcement?
August 1st, 2008 at 12:22 pm
But will you be able to change the radio frequency? (i would assume it’s wireless) What happens if you’re riding in a group and someone shifts 8 bikes at the same time?????
August 1st, 2008 at 1:17 pm
So what is the problem this hardware is supposed to fix? How does it make my road riding experience any better
My shifting is already fantastic and crisp, and can be fixed by myself when needed. I presently don’t need to plug my bike in at night.. I can diagnose problems and usually fix them on my own. I don’t ride TTs where shifters on the bullhorns would be nice. What is worth the multitude of added complexity and expense?
The battery issues of course, multiple groups in a pack is another….how about riding near high-voltage substations or near power lines?
I won’t buy an electric gruppo. It’s neat they’re trying to market an electric group again I ’spose-but why? Because “We can”? Or is it because “We need another excuse to drive up component prices that are already far beyond ridiculous”? When something in the kit breaks will you have to buy a whole new group? (I ain’t speaking about the battery) When something goes wrong out in the middle of nowhere-what can you do to limp home?
Lots of unanswered questions–for something that costs way too much money (more than likely), that solves a problem no one has yet discovered. It seems Shimano has invented something which adds no real benefit to most riders–but did add much more complexity (and potential for things to go wrong).
I’m a skeptic for now, yes.
August 1st, 2008 at 4:08 pm
I won’t be rushing out to the store to buy one until the last cable-actuated system is sold. From my perspective, it adds nothing but hassles - I have to remember to charge my bike, I have to have a battery which by the way, has a maximum number of cycles, it’s more complex with more points of failure. I’m sure there will be folks who want it “just because”, but I will not be one of them. Hurrah for innovation, too bad the didn’t come up with an actual improvement from a use and performance standpoint.
August 1st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
I’ll buy it. Just not the first generation. Maybe now I can install a thief-resistant electronic alarm when I park my bike outside Star-buck’s. Shimano techs have to figure out a way to allow the users the option of \eletronically\ locking the bike (I assume only high end $$$ rides will be sporting this groupset) when the owner is away from the bike. How about GPS tracking system in the frame if the whole bike is stolen from the premise?
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:24 pm
The concerns about interference are unfounded…note that this is referred to as a “digital” system, not a “wireless” system. The signal from the shifters is encoded with a unique ID from the “computer” in the front derailleur so there is no possibility of cross-talk between bikes. From what I’ve read the battery has enough juice for a week of heavy use, and it’s Li-ion so it should last for several thousand charge cycles. And the battery is less than 350g so you could, technically, carry a spare if you were really nervous. An inductive power hub would be nice but would add weight to the system and make wheel changes problematic (and suck watts from your legs). A chainstay-mounted magnet and capacitor could prolly provide emergency power, but for now the tradeoff is reasonable.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:10 am
It’s wired, not wireless (radios at each derailleur would require extra batteries and consequently a bigger weight penalty). Shimano claims a charge lasts about 1000K (621 miles) of ‘heavy use’, a recharge time of 1.5 hrs, and excellent reliability in wet conditions. Given that Shimano is famous for its obsessive QA, I don’t think you can call this release “first generation.” The 1st generation was 2 yrs ago, and was worked out internally. I’m guessing the system works, and works well. I’d buy if I were building up a high-end bike.
August 3rd, 2008 at 4:57 pm
I have some concerns about battery charging but suppose you could get used to it. It’s an additional routine maintenance task to charge a second battery every 3 weeks.
I have no concerns about the technology. It’s not new in the world of industrial control to precisely position machine parts. It’s wired so interference will not be an issue.
I wonder if performance is affected by cold temperatures?
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Hmmmm….electronic one…is it gonna be better ? or more maintenance and more expensive ??
August 4th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
So yeah I like the technology idea, and the idea of being able to put different shifters in locations. But I am among the crowd that says “why?” both to this, and to Campy putting 11 speeds into the mix.
10s chains are already snapping a lot more often, with less mileage, and the drivetrains being much more finicky with adjustment, and staying adjusted.
What happens to the person who wants to bike across the US, I guess they just don’t use an electronic shifter, or better have a convenient place to plug in. Would suck to get into the Rockies, and not be able to shift.
Sure it’s nice, but having to rely on a battery is still a weakpoint IMO, and even if it really offered better shifting, not sure it would be worth the price increase that is sure to come with it.
I think it would be funny if they made it wireless, then you would have people getting people to hack into the systems to try to shift people in competition. Oh, so you are going to attack on this hill, let me just shift you up to an 11.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
What will they think of next. Maybe an electric motor on the pedals. Wait I think that’s been done
August 5th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Remember Shimano airlines? This will probably see a similar course. I could see where this would be useful on a TT bike where you could have shifters in multiple positions without a significant weight penalty.
August 7th, 2008 at 5:31 am
What? no electric power-assisted braking included (yet) ?
August 7th, 2008 at 11:18 am
didn’t mavic try this electric idea several years ago? what happened to their setup? just another fad?
August 10th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
sooo, how much faster will it actually make you go???
August 12th, 2008 at 11:37 am
awesome! finally electric done right!
August 17th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Fly by wire or drive by wire (or wireless)…airplanes and cars do it…why not bicycles. Whats wrong with cables?
August 18th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
For all you naysayers, you will always be off the back.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
I’ll be happy to run ya with my good ol’ 8 speed any day.
I’ve got over 60,000 miles on my dura ace down shifter bike, still fast and works great. I can’t see ANY advantages of a system like this, except for the company selling it to the “must have the latest geeks”.
I’ve NEVER been off the back!!
September 5th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
The electric MAVIC Zap shifters were pretty good, but I think the reason they dropped the line was the same reason Mavic dropped their entire bike components line other that wheels. That reason was to focus on what makes them the most money - wheels. It’s a purely business decision to get rid of the parts that don’t produce as high a return on investment for the stockholders.
September 8th, 2008 at 9:00 pm
I can think of endless possibilities with this. Having it ‘talk’ to a flight deck opens up some cool ideas. It can set your cadence and measure your heart rate for some great training. Talking about security it can use biometrics to lock out your bike. Folks, just accept it. Shimano has always been a leader in this industry. They have an idea that will catch on and others will be jumping on the bad wagon soon. We’re going to see this as a standard very soon.
October 15th, 2008 at 4:39 am
I’ve published a response and how things could progress if electronic groupsets become linked to power meters and hr monitors in my blog:
http://www.sharpenson.co.uk/blog/
- Tom
January 5th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Good review of the Di2 in January 2009’s VeloNews. The author (Lennard Zinn) noted that chainring shifting was much, much faster with the Di2 requiring no easing off power to make the shift. I’d say this improved performance will ultimately be what sells Di2 to the racers.
It’s interesting that they never extended it to shift automatically. No self-respecting racer would want to give over shifting control to a computer and the high cost probably means that there would be no demand for automatic shifting of the Di2. But as cost comes down, I can see this becoming a new feature for cruisers.
February 18th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
Rode a Cervelo with the Di2 set-up. It was fancy, sounded cool, shifted clean but took the purity out of the bike with its battery and flashing lights. Its just missing a motor, already have a motorcycle. But I would totally roll it if someone else picked up the tab.
March 9th, 2009 at 1:15 am
There were a couple of bikes at Tri Fest 09. I have to say, I am very impressed. Shifting is quick and fast and true.
When price is right it will sell like hot cakes!
March 31st, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Of all the fool contraptions, this just about takes the cake. Let’s take all the
fun out of riding, shall we? Are consumers really such fools as to start wanting
whatever the marketing people spew? Bikes are selfpowered, seat-of-
the-pants vehicles. Adding a 350 gm. anything is not towards efficiency.
what is wrong with a pure machine? Do we have to stick a computer on everything:
the toaster, the bike, the refrigerator?
Why not refine what you got and call it a day, Shimano? You can start with your
chains below the DA and XTR levels. they are not very good. Your wheels could come
up a notch or two as well.
You are all clueless clowns. The whore racers won’t say one bad word so they can
get another free bike. The dealers won’t say anything because they don’t really
care about bikes or bikers. they just sell whatever is sold to them. You are just so BUSY messing up my favorite invention.
I hope nobody cares about it and it goes the way of Biopace and freewheel-in-the-bottom-bracket innovation. I wish someone would come along a blow
you out of the water with a couple inexpensive drivetrains.
Let me think. What was it that Leonardo di Vinci said? Oh, yeah: Simplicity is the
ultimate sophistication.
April 3rd, 2009 at 10:47 pm
Oh man does the previous comment have it all beautifully put. Did we all forget in less than 24 hours that our bikes shifted just fine yesterday. It’s just a big money trap Shimano has set for you geeks. I love Shimano but this is just something fun for the engineers to screw with. And dido, what racer would say my free stuff from Shimano sucks??? If you have money to burn, sure buy this stuff but to say this is moving forward is nuts. I ask anyone again…when did shifting become such a problem? Did something happen over night that I missed?
June 4th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Yes, Leonardo was correct and lots of us agree. That explains the current craze for single speed bikes. I own a DuraAce 10 speed Litespeed. The last time I looked the tires were flat, but I ride my Steel, toe-clip, bullhorn, Trek fixie every day. Now that’s fun.
June 5th, 2009 at 4:38 pm
I got a chance to visit with the Shimano NE rep and VP this week and try out the new Di2. Wayne actually gave me his bike to try, the Rabobank team bike. The front derailleur is downright perfection. I tested this thing hard… 1,000w sprint uphill with gear chages in front and back…. also did a timetrial effort on a flat road and made several shifts. The rear is so crisp that even uder very high load and cadence, it didn’t miss. It was actually a little challenging to adjust to mentally… the differene is so stark. For the first time, you get 20 useable speeds (without grinding).
The hoods are more comfortable than my 7800’s, and the effort to shift is like a mouse click. Multi-shifting the rear to compensate for a front change is quite easy. I felt like the group’s crisp shifting could have a impact on effectiveness in sprints, hill climbs… especially when attacking; and it will make general riding more enjoyable. The optional bar end shifters are a nice touch for those with interest in Tri or TT. The integration is quite easy, and the products have been well tested over the 6 year R&D period.
Best results occur with the rear 7900 cassette, new chain, and 7900 cranks. However, for those of us with powermeter cranks it is possible to get similar performance (not quite as good, but close). Ideally, the 7900 crank and chainrings are used to complement this new innovation. I’ll be testing the products starting in July on my bike (with a Quarq Cinqo) and will report back after the first thousand miles.
July 3rd, 2009 at 8:55 am
Electric shifters are going to be as common as disc brakes and front shocks are in mountain biking.
I always laugh when I see a new product going through its inevitable nay sayers, and Die hards, who don’t want change. Facts are, probably by 2015 electric shifting will be a standard feature on bikes, and everyone will wonder how we ever got on with out them… For the worriers out there, how many times have you ever been 50 miles out on a ride, and blow a shifter cable? Same thing with batteries, except you can actually pack a spare battery in your camelback
August 6th, 2009 at 3:45 pm
I wont be rushing out to buy this one. Remember when electronic throttle control came out in vehicles? Ugh. More high tech gadgetry that just makes maintenance and reliability suffer. Stainless steel cables have been around for decades. Campag got rid of the loopy cables and tucked them against the handle bars. That’s good enough for me.
I hate charging batteries too. I get home from a ride, put the bike away, and don’t think about it until I go out next time. Pump up the tyres and fill the water bottle. That’s it. I’m ready.
August 9th, 2009 at 4:37 am
How about adding electronic brake controlling and power system
August 20th, 2009 at 10:27 pm
Uggg, what a joke! I ride my Bike, not a #^!~%^@%%&&! computer. A pure money pit that serves no real purpose what-so-ever.
August 26th, 2009 at 11:55 pm
Actually, this new system looks interesting (and a good deal less ugly than Mavic’s previous attempts. For racers and the like, it looks like a “go.”
Except for one little question. This lovely little group will shift beautifully out-of-the-box. What’s it going to shift like 3-5 years down the pike? What happens when one of those servomotors gets a little “hinkey?” Most of the electronic devices we have at our disposal, unfortunately, are also disposable, as in “no user-serviceable parts inside.” Is this the case here? We know what happens when someone blows out one of their STI levers (which is why I’ve stuck to DA DTs on my own go-fast ride.) Will we be up the creek with these as well?
Of course this isn’t an issue for pros: just as with their frames and other components, they get new ones each season. I’m a bit old to turn pro, though.
- Barrett