Shimano Deore Di2: Shimano's wireless shifting now also affordable?

Shimano completes its range of wireless mountain bike drivetrains with the new Deore M6200 Di2 series. The mid-range groupset transmits the wireless technology of the higher-quality XTR M9200 and XT M8200 gearsticks into a more favourable price segment. The Japanese component manufacturer is thus making the advantages of wireless electronic switching accessible to a wider audience.

Two weeks earlier, the component giant had presented the long-awaited high-end XTR Di2 groupset.

Robust derailleurs for various applications

At the heart of the new groupset are two different rear derailleurs. Shimano has designed the RD-M6250 for non-motorised mountain bikes - it works completely wirelessly. It features Shadow RD+ technology for chain stabilisation as well as a removable and rechargeable battery. As with the more expensive rear derailleurs, the battery is located in the centre of the battery. A double-sprung stabiliser and the automatic impact recovery function are designed to better absorb impacts and collisions off-road.

Facts about the RD-M6250 Di2: Deore wireless rear derailleur

• Technology: Shimano Shadow RD+
• Cage length: SGS (long)
• Compatibility: 10-51 teeth cassette
• Battery: Removable and rechargeable
• Special features: Double-sprung stabiliser, automatic impact recovery function

Shimano offers the wired RD-M6260 rear derailleur for e-mountainbikes. This draws its power supply directly from the e-bike battery and supports Auto Shift and Free Shift technology. Both rear derailleurs come with a long cage for 10-51 tooth cassettes. This differs from the higher-quality XT and XTR groupsets, which have the option of a shorter cage and a 9-45 tooth cassette.

Facts about the RD-M6260 Deore: wired E-MTB rear derailleur

• Technology: Shimano Shadow RD+
• Cage length: SGS (long)
• Compatibility: 10-51 teeth cassette
• Power supply: From the e-bike battery via cable
• Special features: Auto Shift technology, Free Shift technology - for compatible e-bikes
• Versions: 12-speed RD-M6260-12 for HYPERGLIDE+, 11-speed RD-M6260-11L for LINKGLIDE

Intuitive operation thanks to wireless switch

The new wireless SW-M6250R shifter is used to operate the gears. This utilises Rapid Fire ES technology, which according to the manufacturer should provide clear tactile feedback. Shimano promises precise and fast shifting performance. Our first ride impression of the more expensive XTR Di2 can be found here in the link. Various shifting modes such as Single-Click and Hold-Down Multi-Shift should also be available for the cheaper Deore. A third programmable button on the shifter opens up further configuration options, for example for controlling compatible devices from third-party manufacturers.

Facts about the SW-M6250R Di2 shifter

• Technology: Shimano Rapid Fire ES
• Shift modes: Single-Click, Hold-Down Multi-Shift
• Special features: Programmable third button
• Versions: I-Spec EV or clamp
• Compatibility: E-Tube app for configuration

Customisable ergonomics & functions

The switches can be positioned on the handlebars in a variety of ways, whereby the functions of the individual buttons can be configured according to individual requirements. Shimano offers the switch both in an I-SPEC EV version and with a clamp. Users can also control the Free Shift and Auto Shift functions on compatible e-bike systems via the E-Tube app.

Technical innovations for greater reliability

Shimano emphasises that the Deore components benefit from the same innovations that are already used in the higher-quality XTR and XT series. The robust construction is designed to withstand off-road collisions. At the same time, the manufacturer promises intuitive ergonomics with controls that feel natural and can be customised to individual needs thanks to extensive adjustment options.

The prices of the new Shimano Deore Di2

The new Deore Di2 rounds off the bottom end of Shimano's range of electric drivetrains. However, the Deore is not really cheap at market launch. The rear derailleur costs around 425 euros and the matching shifter costs another 145 euros.