Shimano Q’AUTO Brings Battery-Free Automatic Shifting to Urban and Gravel Bikes

Key Details of Shimano Q’AUTO

Product: Shimano Q’AUTO
Technology: Battery-free, automatic Di2 shifting
Ideal For: Urban, trekking, and gravel riders
Power Source: Self-powered via CUES FH-U6060 dynamo hub
Compatibility: LINKGLIDE 1×10 and 1×11 cassettes (e.g., 11–50T, 11–48T)
Features: Adaptive shifting, 6500+ behavior patterns, manual override via Di2 switch
Availability: Global release, part of Shimano’s Di2 wireless ecosystem

In a move set to redefine drivetrain expectations for everyday and lifestyle cyclists, Shimano has unveiled Q’AUTO – a self-powered, fully automatic Di2 shifting system aimed at urban, trekking, and gravel bikes. Blending mechanical bike simplicity with the sophistication of electronic shifting, Shimano Q’AUTO eliminates the need for batteries, charging, or manual gear selection.

At the core of the Shimano Q’AUTO system is the CUES FH-U6060 FREEHUB, a first-of-its-kind hub that integrates a dynamo to generate power with every pedal stroke. Three embedded sensors (monitoring speed, cadence, and slope) feed real-time data to the system, enabling automatic and adaptive gear changes based on terrain and rider effort. A Li-ion capacitor stores excess energy, keeping the system operational even after extended periods off the bike – Shimano claims over a year of standby capacity.

Complementing the hub is the RD-U8050 Di2 rear derailleur, equipped with wireless connectivity and an LED indicator. It’s compatible with Shimano’s LINKGLIDE 1×10 and 1×11 cassettes, offering wide-range gearing options like 11–50T or 11–48T. Riders also get fine-tuned control through the SW-EN605-R wireless Di2 switch, which allows manual override and real-time feedback. Tapping the switch mid-ride prompts the system to shift accordingly – and Shimano Q’AUTO uses adaptive learning to remember this preference, refining its behavior over time.

With over 6,500 shifting behavior patterns in its algorithmic repertoire, Shimano Q’AUTO personalises gear selection based on individual riding habits and context. The longer you ride it, the more intuitive the shifts become, providing a rider-bike synergy traditionally reserved for high-end, manually tuned drivetrains.

Q’AUTO isn’t Shimano’s first foray into automatic shifting, but it’s a significant evolution – fully mechanical bikes can now enjoy smart, electronic shifting without relying on an e-bike battery or motor system. With Di2 technology previously reserved for performance bikes or e-bikes, Shimano’s decision to bring this level of tech to lifestyle categories signals a strong commitment to broadening cycling accessibility and enjoyment.

We can see this being particularly useful for the recreational gravel market. The system launches with full support for Shimano’s Di2 wireless ecosystem, and is available globally from today.