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Affordable wireless shifting for gravel bikesThe new Shimano GRX Di2

The new electronic RX717 components have the same technologies as the expensive Di2 groupsets, but are significantly cheaper.
Photo: Shimano
Wireless shifting for gravel bikes is becoming more affordable. Shimano wants to ensure this with the new RX717 series from the GRX portfolio. The new components are intended to transfer wireless Di2 shifting for 1×12 drivetrains to more affordable bikes. The new rear derailleur has been specially designed for gravel use. All parts are compatible with other Shimano 12-speed wireless shifting systems.
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Shimano is making its electronic Di2 shifting technology for gravel bikes accessible to a wider audience. With the new GRX RX717 series, the Japanese component manufacturer is presenting a more affordable alternative to the existing GRX Di2 groupsets, which are specially designed for 1×12 drivetrains. According to the manufacturer, the components should offer the same reliability and precision as the higher-priced models, but at a more attractive price. In combination with a 12-speed cassette with 10-51 teeth, Shimano promises a range that should be sufficient for all off-road adventures.

Reliable shifting on dusty tracks at an affordable price? Shimano's affordable GRX-Di2 option should make it possible.Photo: ShimanoReliable shifting on dusty tracks at an affordable price? Shimano's affordable GRX-Di2 option should make it possible.

Full integration into the Shimano wireless ecosystem

The new RX717 series is fully integrated into Shimano's wireless Di2 ecosystem. This means that the components are compatible with all Shimano 12-speed wireless shifters - from the Dura-Ace, Ultegra and Shimano 105 Di2 road bike groupsets for drop bars to the XTR, XT and Deore MTB groupsets for flat bars. According to the manufacturer, the rear derailleur was inspired by Shimano's MTB Di2 technology and offers a low profile, impact protection, a protected battery compartment and the automatic impact recovery function. This ensures that the rear derailleur immediately returns to its original position after an impact - an important feature, especially in demanding gravel terrain, where falls and contact with obstacles are not uncommon. The Shadow-ES technology with integrated friction damper should also ensure high chain stability even on rough terrain.

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The new electronic RX717 components have the same technologies as the expensive Di2 groupsets, but are significantly cheaper.Photo: ShimanoThe new electronic RX717 components have the same technologies as the expensive Di2 groupsets, but are significantly cheaper.

The ST-RX715-R lever: the centrepiece of the Shimano GRX

A central element of the new series is the lever for the right-hand side. This combines precise Di2 shifting technology with powerful hydraulic brake control and has a reach-adjust function for customisable ergonomics. Power is supplied by commercially available CR1632 button cells, which according to Shimano should provide a service life of up to four years and are easy to replace. The shift buttons and functions can be freely configured via the E-Tube app. The revised grip cover is designed to provide improved ergonomics and thus offer more comfort, especially on longer gravel tours.

The centrepiece of the new GRX components is the revised brake shifter, which is available in different versions for left and right.Photo: ShimanoThe centrepiece of the new GRX components is the revised brake shifter, which is available in different versions for left and right.

Two options for the left-hand side

For a tidy cockpit, Shimano offers two different brake levers for the left side. The BL-RS717 brake lever is specially designed to match the ergonomics of the GRX components and offers the same feel and adjustability as the right-hand lever. Alternatively, the BL-RS717-LS lever is also available. This offers the same ergonomics as the corresponding road bike components and is a more favourable option for mixed systems. Both brake lever variants have revised grip bonnets for improved ergonomics and are designed exclusively for the left-hand side.

The handle cover has been redesigned to offer better ergonomics.Photo: ShimanoThe handle cover has been redesigned to offer better ergonomics.The reach on the brake lever can be adjusted over a wide range. The buttons can be freely assigned via the app.Photo: ShimanoThe reach on the brake lever can be adjusted over a wide range. The buttons can be freely assigned via the app.

The RD-RX717 rear derailleur: Robust and reliable

The wireless GRX RD-RX717 rear derailleur was specially developed for the demands of gravel riding. It features the Automatic Impact Recovery function, which ensures that the rear derailleur immediately returns to its original position after an impact. A wide joint and a special protective plate are designed to provide additional off-road durability, while Shadow-ES technology ensures high chain stability even on rough terrain. The battery compartment is protected but still easily accessible for maintenance work. Shimano gives the battery range as 700 to 1,000 kilometres, depending on the riding conditions and shifting frequency.

The new GRX rear derailleur is said to be particularly robust, provide high chain stability and has an impact protection with reset function.Photo: ShimanoThe new GRX rear derailleur is said to be particularly robust, provide high chain stability and has an impact protection with reset function.The compact design, integrated battery and additional protective plates are intended to make the rear derailleur particularly robust.Photo: ShimanoThe compact design, integrated battery and additional protective plates are intended to make the rear derailleur particularly robust.

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Customisation options via the E-TUBE app

Like all Shimano Di2 systems, the RX717 rear derailleur and the RX715 lever are fully compatible with the E-TUBE app. This allows numerous parameters to be customised, including the shifting speed, button assignment and firmware. This allows riders to customise their setup precisely to their personal preferences and requirements.

The components can be individually configured via Shimano's E-Tube app.Photo: ShimanoThe components can be individually configured via Shimano's E-Tube app.

Shimano GRX: Technical specifications

ST-RX715-R Hydraulic disc brake lever:

  • Wireless Di2 connectivity
  • Position: DUAL CONTROL lever for the right-hand side only
  • Features: Revised grip bonnet for better ergonomics
  • Configuration: Two Di2 buttons per lever for individual customisation in the E-TUBE app
  • Price: 244,95 Euro

BL-RS717 Hydraulic disc brake lever:

  • Brake lever option for 1×12 setups
  • Position: Only for the left side
  • Features: Revised grip bonnets for better ergonomics
  • Price: 204,94 Euro

RD-RX717 wireless rear derailleur:

  • SHIMANO SHADOW ES technology for more chain tension
  • Construction: Robust construction with protective plate design
  • Sturdily constructed gearshift rollers
  • Compatibility: 10-51T 12-speed cassettes
  • Range: 700-1,000 km (depending on driving conditions)
  • Price: 414,95 Euro
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