The hidden buttons on the top of Shimano Di2 shifters can now be used to change screens on a Garmin head unit or control lights. Garmin control was previously possible on the Dura-Ace 9070 with the use of a ANT+ D-Fly nodule purchased separately but was not widely used.
The launch of Shimano's new Dura-Ace R9150 Di2 groupset, which features a Bluetooth and ANT+ nodule included, has seen this technology optimised and intended for more widespread use.
Having ridden with the new system I can report that it is very useful. When you don't have to remove your hand from the shifter to play with the Garmin screen, you feel much more in control in potentially perilous situations, such as descents or bumpy roads.
In addition, when wearing gloves or when riding in rain, touch screens can be temperamental. By removing the user interaction of a touch screen and being able to filter through screens using the shifters solves this issue.
You can also control lights and other accessories from the shifter buttons
It is also potentially very useful for those wanting to see other data, but remain in an aero position on a TT bike for example.
In addition to controlling the screen, you also get additional data because the Shimano Dura-Ace R9150 Di2 is talking to your Garmin. You no longer have to guess if your Di2 battery needs a charge, as the Garmin screen can display the battery level.
You can also see which gear you are in and other cool data, such as how much time you spend in each gear.
The system is also intended for simultaneous control of other devices, such as Bontrager's lights. Our test unit was set up so that a single press can change the Garmin screen, while a long press would activate lights, but Shimano insists the possibilities are wide.
Setting up button modes and how they activate accessories was easy
The wireless unit is not just for connecting to accessories either. It is also for connecting wirelessly to a Shimano app for smart phones and tablets. The app connectivity allows you to run diagnostics on your groupset, update firmware and fine tune the shifting, particularly the new Synchro Shift functionality. Other features include automatic shifting for pre determined cadence and power outputs.
The tablet app can be used to fine tune shifting and auto shifting to optimise chain lines
You can also set up a profile for yourself and if you hire a bike or get a new bike, the profile can be transferred to the new bike easily.
More details will follow but the new Shimano Dura-Ace R9150 Di2 Synchro Shift features can be tuned via this app too.
Currently only available for Mac, an Android version is soon to follow.
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Oliver Bridgewood - no, Doctor Oliver Bridgewood - is a PhD Chemist who discovered a love of cycling. He enjoys racing time trials, hill climbs, road races and criteriums. During his time at Cycling Weekly, he worked predominantly within the tech team, also utilising his science background to produce insightful fitness articles, before moving to an entirely video-focused role heading up the Cycling Weekly YouTube channel, where his feature-length documentary 'Project 49' was his crowning glory.
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