Jacob Murray in Tucson, Arizona

BREAKING NEWS: XTR Di2 // Shimano goes wireless finally!

The wait is over, Shimano sure have taken their time coming to the ‘wireless’ electronic shifting party, however what they’ve managed to deliver looks set to make quite the appearance.

And as part of this production launch, joining the all-new XTR Di2 drivetrain Shimano also went live with an entirely new and much hyped braking platform – and you can read about those in a separate dedicated article. Right now let’s dive in and the explore the new drivetrain!

Now you could be forgiven for thinking that you’re seeing double when you first check out the new XTR range, given that Shimano have co-developed 2 versions of most of the main components, tailored specifically to suit different riding applications, which ultimately make up the new XTR eco system which all went live this week. There’s 2 versions of the rear derailleur, 2 cassette options, 2 models of the cranks and 2 distinctly different brake offerings. Leaving just the chain and shifter as the ‘only childs’ within the new XTR family.

Admittedly we haven’t had a chance to ride any of the new XTR gear yet however we have been studying the press release and these are some of the key details that we’ve learned about each of the new components:

XTR Di2 Rear Derailleurs

Of course the ‘star of the show’ would have to be the new Di2 fully wireless electronically actuated rear derailleur. Shimano are offering the rear mech in 2 models which offer some distinctly different features. Pretty much there’s a version specifically for e-MTB’s and there’s a version for regular MTB’s. Some key features include:

  • Low Profile Design – SHIMANO SHADOW ES technology delivers a wedge-shaped design that reduces the derailleur’s front-facing surface area and eliminates edges that could catch on rocks and roots.
  • Automatic Impact Recovery Function – The derailleur absorbs trail impacts and then automatically resets the rear derailleur, ensuring continued performance.
  • Super Strong Design – The rear derailleur body boasts a wide, well-braced linkage and solid pulleys to minimize debris entry and ensure durability.
  • New Chain Stabilizing Technology – The dual spring design creates higher chain tension for better chain wrap and retention.
  • Battery Protection – Tucked safely inside the rear derailleur body, the sealed battery won’t budge even in the roughest terrain but is still easily removed for charging.
  • e-MTB Rear Derailleur Option – The wired E-MTB RD-M9260 features a constant power supply from the existing e-bike battery, while utilizing FREE SHIFT technology to seamlessly shift as you coast, and AUTO SHIFT for smooth, automatic gear changes while pedalling.

M9250 – Wireless Rear Derailleur

  • SHIMANO SHADOW ES Technology
  • Precise wireless shifting
  • Robust structure with skid plate design
  • Solid pulley construction
  • Removable and rechargeable onboard battery
  • Long Cage RD-M9250 SGS for use with 10-51T Cassette
  • Mid Cage RD-M9250 GS for use with 9-45T Cassette
  • Price $1040 Au (not included battery $80 and charger $70)
  • Weight 372 grams

M9260 – Rear Derailleur for e-MTB

  • SHIMANO SHADOW ES Technology
  • Wired rear derailleur for e-MTB
  • Constant power supply from e-bike battery
  • AUTO SHIFT technology
  • FREE SHIFT technology
  • Long Cage SGS
  • 12-Speed RD-M926012 for HYPERGLIDE+
  • 11-Speed RD-M926011L for LINKGLIDE
  • Price $1040 Au (not included battery $80 and charger $70)
  • Weight 372 grams

Di2 Shifter Switch

The all-new fully wireless ‘shifter switch’ features something called ‘Rapid ES’ technology which aims to build on the legacy of Shimano’s existing mechanical shifters, carrying over key features like the tactile feedback that offers control without requiring riders to change their grip when shifting.

  • SHIMANO RAPID ES technology
  • Precise wireless shifting
  • Tactile feel with each shift
  • Multiple shift modes, including hold-down multi-shift, click-through double shift, or locked-out single shift
  • Four-way paddle adjust
  • Programmable third button on shifter for added customisation – like controlling your bike computer or controlling FREE SHIFT and AUTO SHIFT functions through the E-TUBE app
  • I-SPEC EV and clamp band options
  • Price $378
  • Weight 97 grams

Cranksets

The new XTR cranksets are offered in two ride-specific constructions—one optimized for weight savings and the other for extra durability—the crank utilizes Shimano’s proven HOLLOWTECH II technology that achieves a new balance of rigidity and weight while also emphasizing impact survivability.

M9220 – Trail/Enduro Crank

  • High-durability crankset for Trail/Enduro
  • Enduro-specific spindle ensures stiff power transfer and impact resistance
  • Proven HOLLOWTECH II construction
  • Standard 176mm Q-Factor
  • Crank Arm Length: 160, 165, 170, 175mm
  • Chainline: 55mm
  • Price Cranks  $530 Au
  • Price Chainring $230 Au
  • Price BB $80 Au

M9200 – XC Crank

  • Lightweight crankset for XC riding and racing
  • Proven HOLLOWTECH II construction
  • XC-friendly 168mm Q-Factor
  • Crank Arm Length: 165, 170, 175mm
  • Chainline: 55mm
  • Price $530
  • Price Chainring $230 Au
  • Price BB $80 Au

Cassette Options 

  • Choose between either 9-45 tooth range or 10-51 tooth range, both are 12 speed.
  • Smoother, more durable shifting under load
  • 12-Speed HYPERGLIDE+
  • MICRO SPLINE
  • Price $860 Au.
  • Weight 327 grams

For more info about the all-new XTR Di2 range visit your local Aussie Shimano dealer or browse: bike.shimano.com