Shimano launches a Di2 version of its GRX 2 x 12-speed gravel groupset

Shimano’s 12-speed gravel component family gets a new option with the arrival of the GRX RX825 Di2 2 x 12-speed. This new groupset offers redesigned levers for more control, a Shadow RD+ rear derailleur for better chain retention, and a front derailleur designed for precise shifting.

Source: press release

As many gravel riders had hoped, Shimano is launching a Di2 version of its 12-speed GRX groupset, launched in late summer 2023. Thanks to electronic shifting, the new GRX Di2 (code name: RX825) delivers fast, precise gear changes, with a wireless cockpit for added comfort and reliability.

The groupset also features a drivetrain optimized for gravel, with Hyperglide+ technology, for smooth shifting whatever the conditions. The ergonomics have also been reworked for an ideal balance between comfort and grip.

GRX 2 x 12 drivetrain options

The new GRX RX825 Di2 levers, the complementary satellite buttons and the derailleurs, combined with the existing components (cassette, crankset, chain), make for a high-performing, reliable electronic 12-speed drivetrain.

As with the mechanical RX820 components, you can choose an 11-36 or an 11-34 tooth cassette for a wide choice of gear ranges with closely spaced ratios.

Compatible gearing options for the GRX RX825 Di2:

• 48/31 teeth, RX820 crankset
• 11-36 teeth, HG710 cassette
• 11-34 teeth, R9200, R8100, R7100 cassettes

Shimano Di2 electronic shifting for gravel

Like the other 12-speed Di2 groupsets in Shimano’s range, the new GRX Di2 uses wires where they make sense (to optimize the battery life of the electronic derailleurs), with a central battery that supplies stable, long-lasting power to the front and rear derailleurs.

But the groupset is wireless at the cockpit, where the raised grips have a non-slip coating for a better hold and more confidence in your riding. As on the other shifters in the Di2 range, there is also a third button for even more intuitive shifting, or for scrolling through information on your bike computer/GPS.

Renewed ergonomics

The new levers have a more curved shape to suit flared handlebars. The cable integration is designed to provide a clean cockpit. Moving the hands from the bars to the hoods is smoother.

ST-RX825 – DUAL CONTROL hydraulic shifters

• Di2 wireless connectivity
• 2 x 12-speed Dual-Control shifting
• Levers with ergonomics optimized for gravel riding
• New curved shape designed for flared handlebars
• Non-slip coating
• Customization of up to 3 Di2 buttons via the E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app
• Powered by replaceable coin cell batteries (2 x CR1632) with an estimated life of three and a half to four years
• Weight: 415 g / pair
• RRP: €494.99 for the hydraulic lever-and-caliper set

Customizing the Di2 controls

The new Di2 system also lets you configure the Di2 buttons to operate various accessories. By pressing one of the satellite buttons on the Shimano shifters, whether on top of the hood, in the drops of the bar or from a button built into an aero bar, for example, you can keep your effort more consistent without having to move your hands. Like the third button on the GRX Di2 shifters, these satellite buttons can be assigned various functions such as gear changes, control of lights and compatible GPS units, or as a lap-trigger button during training sessions.

The SHIMANO SHADOW RD+ rear derailleur

The RX825 rear derailleur features Shadow RD+ technology. With its on/off lever, it makes removing the rear wheel easier when switched off. When switched on, the drivetrain is put under extra tension for more precise and quieter shifting.

As on Shimano’s 12-speed Di2 road drivetrains, the rear derailleur is the brain of the drivetrain. It communicates wirelessly with the shifters, compatible GPS units and the E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app via a smartphone. It also houses the charging port and a multifunction button that lets you easily check the battery level, pair it via Bluetooth, and enter adjustment mode for both derailleurs.

RD-RX825 – Rear derailleur

• SHIMANO SHADOW RD+ technology for better chain retention
• Built-in D-FLY connectivity and charging port 12-speed
• Compatible with 11-34 and 11-36 tooth cassettes
• Weight: 310 g
• RRP: €389.99

Optimized chainline for more clearance

As with the very first GRX groupsets, the RX825 range has a chainline widened by 2.5 mm relative to the frame, to give more clearance for wider tires.

FD-RX825 – Front derailleur

• Chainline +2.5mm compared with road front derailleurs
• More clearance for large-section tires 2 x 12-speed
• Weight: 142 g
• RRP: €219.99

E-TUBE PROJECT and FRONT SHIFT NEXT customization

With the Shimano E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app, you can choose between different shift intervals, customize button assignments, and program different modes such as the Synchronized and Semi-Synchronized modes.

The launch of the RX825 also coincides with the launch of the new FRONT SHIFT NEXT feature. With this firmware update, you can use the E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app to program any 12-speed Di2 button to move the front derailleur to the chainring you are not using, then shift back again with the same button. This new feature is compatible not only with the GRX RX825 groupset, but also with the Shimano 12-speed Di2 road component family. The result is simpler, more intuitive chainring changes for novice riders, and faster decision-making for experienced riders in the heat of the action.

As well as greatly simplifying the shifting process, Shimano FRONT SHIFT NEXT can also free up other buttons to handle tasks such as scrolling through various screens on your GPS, turning a light on or off, or triggering “lap” mode on your GPS, so you can keep your hands well positioned, even in the middle of an effort.

Price of the complete groupset: €2329 

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