Freakride: New Shimano 2010 : Ultegra First look

7.4.09

ที่ 09:04

Last year Shimano launched the new Dura Ace 7900. It was first major update to the group since 2003 and along with several improvements, marked a dramatic change in styling. While the electronic Dura Ace Di2 grabbed most of the headlines, it was the less heralded 7900 that best represents the evolution of the Shimano line. For 2010 Ultegra receives a complete revamp that incorporates many of the innovations that was developed with the Dura Ace 7900 series and drops over 150 grams when compared to Ultegra 6600 and compared to Ultegra SL, sheds nearly 45 grams. The workhorse of the Shimano road line-up, Ultegra 6700 earns even more deserved competition merit as several professional and amateur squads have chosen to use it for training and racing during the 2009 season.

Shifters
The ST-6700 Dual Control Shift Levers are redesigned to incorporate hidden shift cables and a revised shift mechanism that moves the mass closer to the handlebar, improving handling. Additional improvements are reach adjustment, revised braking pivot point for better braking from the hoods, and carbon fiber brake lever blades. The new shifters maintain “B” level compatibility with Ultegra 6600 series components.

Crankset
Using technology borrowed from Dura Ace 7900, the FC-6700 Ultegra crank has a new hollow outer chainring for maximum stiffness and positive shifting under power. The new design also reduces incidence of the chain catching on the outer ring when in the smallest front ring and smallest rear cog. The change saves 15-grams over the Ultegra SL crank.

Derailleurs

Both Front and rear derailleurs (FD-6700 / RD-6700) use wider links to improve performance and shifting under load, while the rear derailleur saves 10-grams over Ultegra SL through the use of an all aluminum pulley cage.

Cassette And Chain
Over 15 grams are saved with the new cassette and chain (CS-6700 / CN-6700), but the bigger story is the use of an asymmetrical chain, similar to Dura-Ace 7900 to provide more precise shifting. Taking into account the different demands of inward and outward shifts, the inner and outer plates feature different chamfers optimized for the direction of the shift.

Brakes
The Ultegra BR-6700 brakes have a revised brake arch pivot location for quicker linear response and better controllability, similar to Dura-Ace 7900. The brake silhouette features a lower cable stop for smoother cable routing and less cable friction. Best of all, the new pad compound provides a claimed 100% more stopping power in wet conditions.