But the groupsets aren't just different on the surface: while the two are closely linked together, there are some pretty important differences between the two. Let's get stuck into the nitty-gritty.
Materials and production
New Ultegra has the Dura-Ace R9100 look
Most of the differences between the two groupsets really comes down to materials. Shimano freely admits it had to hit a price point with Ultegra, and that meant swapping out some higher end materials for some slightly bulkier, less expensive options.
For starters, there are differences in the Di2 shifters. They're identical in shape, yet the shifters of the Ultegra groupset weigh 295g a pair Dura-Ace 230g a pair – yet both have carbon levers. This can only mean that Shimano's use of lighter materials for the internals shave the 35g off the Dura-Ace versions.
Minor differences in the levers and inside the hoods
(Image credit: WOUTER ROOSENBOOM / PROCYCLESHOTS)
For example,the brackets of the Ultegra model made of a glass fibre resin, whereas Dura-Ace is made with a carbon fibre resin.
Interestingly, Ultegra actually receives a greater amount of free stroke adjustment than the Dura-Ace model, meaning riders should be able to get a more comfortable set up.
The hydraulic rotors also differ between the two groupsets, with the Dura-Ace models' cooling find receiving a black coating which aids with heat dissipation. In contrast, the Ultegra rotor fins are simply plain aluminium.
Both derailleurs are different are made of different materials than their Dura-Ace counterparts, although both have the same shifting action. Rather than an aluminium cage used on the Dura-Ace front derailleur, the Ultegra series gets a steel body.
Similarly, the cage on the rear derailleur is aluminium rather than the carbon one used on the higher end groupset.
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Ultegra is a groupset designed to be used for a variety of riding styles. To this end, Ultegra can now accommodate a 34t cassette, whereas Dura-Ace tops out at a 30t.
Similarly, the Ultegra rim brakes are heavier because they have to be larger to accommodate 28mm tyres, which means more materials and extra weight.
Shimano Ultegra chainset
(Image credit: WOUTER ROOSENBOOM / PROCYCLESHOTS)
New Shimano Ultegra is still the same Hollowtech II construction as before, and like most of Shimano's range, including Dura-Ace, it's a two piece construction, too.
Finally, the cassettes between the two are quite different. Whereas with the Dura-Ace groupset you're getting high end carbon fibre spiders with steel and titanium sprockets, on Ultegra you get all steel sprockets.
Weights
As minor as they may seem, these material differences do add up on the scales.
Front crank and chain rings: Ultegra 674g / Dura-Ace 609g
Front/rear derailleur:
Front derailleur mechanical: Ultegra 106g / Dura-Ace 70g
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