Recently discovered approvals from the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) confirmed this week that Shimano is adding wireless technology to its line, and the moment suggests that it belongs to the new Dura-Ace.
In documents discovered by CyclingTips, the FCC confirms Shimano’s use of a wireless module and a rear derailleur with radio transmitter and receiver, as highlighted in discovered patents at the end of last year.
The documents, found on FCCID.io, confirm that the two related devices include Bluetooth wireless technology LE and ANT + and, most notably, both feature a third radio frequency titled ‘SHIMANO ORIGINAL’ at 2,478 MHz, suggesting that the two units will be able to communicate over a closed – or private – wireless network similar to the way SRAM’s eTap works to prevent hackers and interference.
The two documents also include a ‘short-term confidentiality request’, effectively keeping the most subtle details confidential for up to 180 days from the date of the Equipment Authorization Grant. This authorization came on January 26th, which means that it expires on Sunday, July 25th. This does not mean that it will be a release date, but we can be sure that we will know more by then.
What do we know?
It is not news that, at this stage, Shimano has not released anything official, but there is much evidence to support rumors and speculation.
The information included in the FCC documents is evidence to support the suggestions made in the November patents. These patents showed wireless transmitters and receivers being added to the shifters and both diverters, and although there is currently no FCC certification pertaining to a front diverter, confirmation of a wireless module and wireless rear mechanism, both operating on a wireless network Original closed wire suggests Shimano is actually switching to wireless switching.
There are many rumors that suggest that the new Dura-Ace will actually be semi-wireless with a wire connecting the front and rear derailleurs – similar to the functioning of the FSA’s WE power group. With an FCC approval for a front derailleur noted for its absence, it was speculated that the rear derailleur would house the brains to operate the front derailleur. However, the inclusion of radio receivers in the front derailleur in these patents casts a shadow on this argument.
In previous patents also confirmed, the new Dura-Ace would be 12-speed, with patent drawings showing a 12-speed cassette. It seems almost incomprehensible that Shimano avoided this step, since SRAM and Campagnolo are already at 12 speeds (13 speeds with Campagnolo Ekar), and XTR, XT, SLX and even Deore are compatible with 12 speeds.
The latest documents also suggest that a new battery will accompany the new wireless rear derailleur. The rear derailleur test was carried out in conjunction with a battery, part number BT-DN300. The most recent iteration of the Di2 battery is BT-DN110. It is a safe assumption that, with three wireless frequencies, the new derailleur will consume more battery.
Although all the available evidence points to wireless switching, it is important to note that the patents showed that the Di2 cable ports remained present on the shifters. This may give weight to the rumor that both shifters would be connected by a cable, but perhaps more likely is the ability to connect satellite (sprint) shifters and perhaps even offer cross compatibility with Shimano GRX, XT or XTR, or earlier versions compatibility with the current Dura-Ace.
When will it be launched?
Shimano has long been counting down to his 100th birthday on a dedicated birthday page on the Shimano website. The common assumption is that this March 23 date will be marked by the launch of the new Dura-Ace, but there is no evidence to support this claim.
However, it is definitely worth putting the date in your diary, because even if it is not a new Dura-Ace, you can be sure that Shimano will be doing something remarkable in your Centenary.