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Shimano Ultegra Di2 STI Shift Levers. To talk about Shimano's Ultegra Di2 shifters in isolation from the rest of the components that comprise the remarkable Di2 system is a bit like talking about the steering wheel of a Lamborghini Murcilago although both are nice to look at and to wrap your hands around, their functional value is inherently context specific. On the other hand, there's a lot to be said for the looks and feel of the Ultegra Di2 shifters. Looks wise, they're svelte, ergonomic and elegant, featuring the rich, smoke grey finish that graces the entire Di2 group. Because they have electronic rather than cable actuated mechanical internals, Ultegra Di2 shift levers are slimmer and lighter than their mechanical counterparts. Like the more expensive Dura Ace Di2 shifters that preceded them, they also don't require an inward sweep of the brake lever to move the chain to larger cogs in the rear and to the large chainring up front. Instead, just a light touch on one of the two paddles positioned behind the brake lever does the trick. Gear changes are press of a button simple, quick, precise and infinitely consistent. Oh, and get this: Shimano has even incorporated an adjustable reach feature 10mm of incremental adjustment, so you don't have to forgo the benefits of Di2 just because you happen to have diminutive digits. Add it all up and you've got Dura Ace Di2 performance and reliability at a pricepoint that puts Di2 within reach of more of us regular Joes and Janes than ever before.
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