The Disc Brake Revolution

Hydraulic Systems cont…

Shimano Di2 Hydraulic

Launched earlier this summer, along with Ultegra 6870 Di2 componentry, the new Ultegra grade R785 series Di2/hydraulic disc looks set to compete strongly against the SRAM offering. Early press shows that the system weight is slightly heavier than the SRAM option at just over 1000g complete. The Ultegra 6870 Di2 and R785 will be available from November 2013 and currently there is no indication of the manufacturers recommended retail price so watch this space. Shimano Di2 Hydraulic

Shimano R785 disc brakes

Shimano R785 Levers

Conclusion

For me, the spectre of the Three Peaks Cyclocross race looms large at the end of September and it is necessary for me to upgrade my braking system now. I’m personally very tempted by both the TRP Parabox System and the Hope Tech V-twin; through friends who have these systems I know they do the job, though I have concerns that I don’t have enough height under the stem to be able to fit the systems. I’m not overly bothered by the weight issue, though an additional box is something else to maintain. The cost is not prohibitive but it is still a lot of money for something that I feel will be redundant in the next year or so.

If money and time was not a obstacle then I think I’d wait to see how the new Shimano offering pans out but do I need Di2 for bashing about at a cyclocross race? And budget will of course play a large part in my choice, so with that in mind I am leaning towards the TRP HYRD system. But will there be stock available in the UK before the middle of September?

Whatever your view these are exciting advancements in technology for cross/road braking systems that has been lagging behind the technology and componentry of the rest of the bicycle for some time.

The next page has some useful videos to help you make up your mind…
 
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