More sprockets and options for gravel bikes: Shimano presents the new GRX groupset

The Japanese manufacturer Shimano has presented the second generation of the GRX gravel bike groupset. The new groupset has twelve sprockets on the rear wheel and can be combined with either one or two chainrings. There are two quality levels: GRX820 and the cheaper GRX610. The previous cheapest version, GRX400, is no longer available. The components are interchangeable and form a modular system. Compared to the first generation, the modular system is now more clearly organised. However, there is no electronic Di2 version for the twelve-speed drivetrain for the time being, as it was still offered parallel to the Elffach group.

Shimano GRX now offers new gear ratios for single drivetrains

Drivetrains with just one chainring are becoming increasingly popular on gravel bikes. Shimano has therefore expanded its range of single configurations. The GRX uses cassettes from the XT mountain bike groupset. There is a sporty 10-45 gradation and a wider 10-51 gradation. However, these cassettes are only compatible with Microspline freewheels and not with the classic HG freewheel. Different derailleur cages are required for the two cassettes, with the larger one requiring a longer cage. Fortunately, the cages of the new rear derailleurs can be easily changed, so that the entire rear derailleur does not have to be replaced when changing the gear ratio. The golden mean for the crank is a 40 mm chainring, but there is also a 42 mm chainring for the GRX820 and an optional 38 mm chainring for the GRX610.

Shimano GRX groupset: 2x12 gears for sporty ambitions

Fans of even gear steps with a wide range will be satisfied with the double setup of the new Shimano GRX groupset. The cranks offer a gradation of 48/31 (GRX820) or 46/30 (GRX610). The recommended cassettes are an 11-34 and an 11-36 from the road bike portfolio. They also fit 11-speed freewheels in the Shimano HG standard, so that they are also compatible with older wheels. The chainline is offset outwards by two millimetres, which means that the front derailleur officially allows tyres up to 42 millimetres wide.

New lever ergonomics

Shimano has redesigned the GRX shift brake levers for the second generation of the gravel groupset. The levers of the GRX820 have been specially adapted for the laterally flared gravel handlebars in order to provide a horizontal contact surface for the hands. The mounting clamp has been modified accordingly. The GRX610 levers are not affected by this change. If you are not using a front derailleur configuration, you can also choose left-hand brake levers without a shift mechanism. Alternatively, you can use a special lever with which you can operate a mechanically controlled, retractable seat post.

GRX610 is functional and less expensive

The Shimano GRX820 groupset is aimed at experienced gravel riders and offers state-of-the-art technology. The GRX610 groupset, on the other hand, is the price-conscious alternative for beginners and customers looking for a bike in the €2000 price range. Visually, the GRX610 differs from the more expensive GRX820 with a matt finish instead of the high-gloss polished finish. With the GRX610, however, riders also have to do without some technical refinements, such as the ServoWave technology, which reduces hand force when braking hard. In addition, the levers are not specially adapted for modern flare handlebars as on the GRX820. The crank of the GRX610 is a two-piece crank and therefore significantly heavier than the Hollowtech II crank of the Shimano GRX820.

Also: Shimano carbon wheels for Gravel use

Shimano presents the RX880 wheels for Gravel use, which are designed to match the GRX series. The carbon rims with a height of 32 millimetres are tubeless-ready and have a fairly narrow rim width of 25 millimetres, which, according to the manufacturer, makes them suitable for tyre widths of 32 to 50 millimetres. A special feature is the easy interchangeability of the freehub body, so that the wheels are suitable for both single and double setups and the gear ratios can be easily adjusted.

The brand new GRX is now available in all available versions and the first production bikes with this equipment for the 2024 model year will be presented soon. Gravel bikes with the GRX610 variant are expected to cost around €2000, while those with the GRX820 variant should cost around €3000. However, there will not be an electronic GRX variant for the time being.

The following bikes are already equipped with the new Shimano GRX groupset:

8bar bikes centre Club Edition

Arc8 Eero

Storck Grix.2 pro disc

Veloheld icon.x

Wilier Triestina Adlar