Why We Like The Ultegra Di2 ST-R8050 11-Speed Shifters

They say the third time's a charm, and Shimano continues to bring Di2 to the masses with the much-refined gen 3 Ultegra Di2 ST-R8050 11-Speed Shifters. Exceptional electronic shifting and powerful braking are at your fingertips, and the value and performance of this group are simply remarkable. Borrowing heavily from the top-tier Dura-Ace levers, the R8050's are redesigned with improved ergonomics in mind. Because much less space is needed to house electronic buttons than mechanical bits, the hoods are more compact, lighter, and the lower profile just feels great. Shimano even went so far as to create a new rubber compound and tread for the hoods, designed to reduce vibration and improve grip. Gloves or no gloves, the tactile grip is amazing, and our hands refused to slip even when climbing out of the saddle on a hot ride. Befitting riders with bigger and smaller hands alike, a lever reach adjustment places the brake levers just where you need them for maximum comfort and control.

The shift buttons are easy to reach from both the hoods and the drops, and, again, trickled down from Dura-Ace, have a more positive click and are more distinguishable between upshift and downshift than in previous versions. What we love most about Di2 is that shifting feels like clicking a mouse, only requiring 2mm of movement. This requires much less focus and effort, especially for front shifting, allowing us to concentrate on riding without thinking too much about our equipment. Remote sprinter and climbing satellite shifters are available separately and plug into these shifters to allow further customization. 

DETAILS

• Electronic shifters and brake levers for drop bar bikes
• Compatible with Shimano 11-speed road Di2
• Low-profile hoods improve ergonomics
• Redesigned lever blades and paddles
• Bigger shift buttons with a more positive click feel
• 10mm of lever reach adjustment
• E-Tube technology customizes shifting options
• Item #SHI00G9

TECH SPECS