Shimano continues to build its gravel empire, with today’s release of an expanded range of GRX components.
Using the speedy shifting we have experienced with this year’s launch of the new off-road Di2 wireless range, this new series of RX717 12-speed GRX components includes a right-side dual control lever, two left-side brake-only lever options (one GRX-branded, the other SHIMANO-branded, though Shimano have noted we will only see the GRX branded models ashore im Australia), and a GRX RX717 rear derailleur.
A key upgrade with this release is the new GRX derailleur, which lends heavily from Shimano’s Di2 mountain bike range, integrating the low-profile design, skid plate, protected internal battery, and the Automatic Impact Recovery function.
Notably, the new derailleur can be paired with a 10–51T 12-speed cassette, meaning a drivetrain that enables a huge range for all-day, all-terrain adventures, even with a single chainring setup.
The new GRX derailleur also uses the same battery as the new mountain bike releases from Shimano, making the new release a good option for households that are running the new Di2 options on the mountain bike, looking to upgrade their gravel rigs. The battery life range for the GRX derailleur sits at a claimed 700–1000km.
The GRX RX717 levers feature dual control right sided lever, offering a more affordable wireless shifting option, combined with Shimano’s renowned braking performance. The lever features reach adjust, for comfortable use for a range of rider sizes, E-Tube app compatibility in order to customise button functionality, and the CR1632 Battery has a claimed life of up to 4 years.
You can pair this up with the new BL-RS717 hydraulic disc Brake Lever, or integrate with Shimano’s existing hydraulic disc brake lever options. The lever comes with hose and calipers, but rotors will need to be purchased separately.
Already a Shimano drop-bar fan? The system is able to be integrated with existing Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and 105 Di2 shifters, and likewise can be used with Shimano’s recently released XTR, XT and Deore mountain bike shifters.
Our Take on RX717
Shimano aren’t exactly reinventing the wheel with this release – but that’s exactly the reason I dig it. Just like the launch of the Di2 mountain bike upgrade kits, Shimano have shown a commitment to cross-drivetrain compatibility that means riders can use their existing 12-speed components in a wide range of ways. Rather than just offering a drivetrain, Shimano are building a cross-disciplinary ecosystem, and I think that’s pretty cool.
If you’re wondering, you can set up a frankenbike with GRX shifters and the XTR/XT/Deore cassette, or XTR/XT/Deore Shifters and a GRX cassette. The levers themselves are essentially a GRX-branded option of their 105 Di2 levers.
In terms of the Dual shift option, Shimano have explained shifting is undertaken with a separate button to the brake lever, and this model is right lever buttons only. But using the E-Tube App, you can choose to configure the buttons however you want.
Overall, building a more rugged, off-road specific derailleur for gravel lovers that pairs with the new dual touch lever, or configured as a drivetrain with a whole range of other options from Shimano’s drop bar and mountain bike offerings is a pretty sweet way to offer up new component launches.
This new GRX component release demonstrates that Shimano are listening to the needs of the riders who are calling for cross-compatibility, rather than relentless product launches that render previous generations obsolete.
You can learn more on Shimano’s website.
