Shimano Cuts the Cords: Introducing the All-New Wireless 1x12 GRX Di2 Gravel Group

Gravel riding demands versatility, reliability, and performance. For years, Shimano’s GRX has been a benchmark for gravel-specific components, and now, the bar has been raised yet another notch. Following the recent successful launches of wireless XTR and XT mountain bike groupsets, Shimano has officially entered the fully wireless drop-bar world with the debut of its 1x12-speed GRX Di2 components.

This new RX827 series leverages the proven wireless cockpit of Shimano's 12-speed road groups and integrates the robust, fully wireless technology first seen on their top-tier mountain bike derailleurs. The result is a clean, high-performance, and incredibly durable drivetrain built to handle the unpredictable nature of gravel. This launch solidifies the GRX lineup as one of the most comprehensive on the market, offering mechanical and electronic options in both 1x12 and 2x12 configurations to suit any rider's preference.

The Heart of the Matter: A Fully Wireless, Gravel-Tuned Drivetrain

At the core of the new system is the RD-RX827 wireless rear derailleur. Free from proprietary frame requirements, this system offers riders the ultimate freedom to upgrade their current gravel bike. It brings Shimano’s renowned precise and fast Di2 shifting to a rugged 1x12 setup designed for everything from competitive racing to all-day backcountry epics.

The system is designed for broad compatibility, pairing the new rear derailleur with existing RX825 Di2 DUAL CONTROL LEVERS, the RX820 crankset, and Shimano's wide-range XT M9200-series 10-51T MICRO SPLINE cassette. Riders can fine-tune their gearing with either a 40T or 42T chainring, creating a setup that can conquer steep climbs and power through fast, flat sections with equal confidence.

SHIMANO SHADOW ES: Built to Survive the Roughest Roads

Gravel is unpredictable, and rock strikes are an unfortunate reality. Shimano addresses this head-on with the new SHIMANO SHADOW ES (Engineered for Survivability) technology integrated into the GRX RX827 rear derailleur.

Borrowing heavily from its mountain bike counterparts, the derailleur features a low-profile, wedge-shaped design that minimizes its exposure to impacts. By eliminating sharp edges, it’s designed to glance off trailside obstacles rather than catch on them.

Key features of the new derailleur include:

• Automatic Impact Recovery: When a significant impact does occur, the derailleur is built to absorb the force and then automatically reset itself to its original position. In many cases, a rider might not even notice a rock strike occurred.
• Robust Construction: A wide link structure, durable skid plate, and solid pulley construction ensure the derailleur can withstand mud, grit, and force, delivering consistent performance day in and day out.
• Protected Battery: The Di2 battery is tucked securely within the derailleur body, shielded from the elements and trail debris, yet easily removable for charging. Riders can expect between 700km and 1,000km (435 to 621 miles) of range on a single charge.
• Enhanced Chain Stability: A new dual-spring design provides higher chain tension, improving chain wrap and retention for a quieter, more secure ride on bumpy terrain.

RD-RX827 Rear Derailleur Specs:

• Technology: SHIMANO SHADOW ES
• Cage: Long Cage (SGS)
• Cassette Compatibility: SHIMANO 10-51T 12-speed
• Weight: 449 grams

A Refined Cockpit for Control and Comfort

Control starts at your hands. The new GRX Di2 launch includes an addition to the cockpit lineup: the BL-RX825-L hydraulic disc brake lever. This brake-only lever is for riders committed to a pure 1x setup. It features the same exceptional ergonomics as the DUAL CONTROL levers—including raised hoods with ribbed surfaces and anti-slip brake levers—but sheds the weight of electronic shift buttons for a cleaner, simpler interface.

For those who want maximum control, the existing GRX RX825 DUAL CONTROL LEVERS remain the go-to choice. They feature three customizable Di2 buttons: two on the shift paddle and a third on the hood. These buttons can be programmed to control shifting, compatible lights, or cycle computers. They can even be assigned as a remote function button to make on-the-fly shifting trim adjustments without moving your hands. Furthermore, the system allows for accessory satellite shifters to be placed anywhere on the bars for ultimate customization.

New Wheels for the People: The RX180 Tubeless Aluminum

Rounding out the launch, Shimano is introducing a new, budget-friendly aluminum gravel wheelset. The SHIMANO RX180 wheels are built for strength and reliability. They are tubeless-ready with a modern 25mm internal rim width, making them a perfect match for gravel tires ranging from 32mm to 50mm.

A key feature is the redesigned pawl ratchet rear hub, which allows for a simple swap between MICRO SPLINE (for 12-speed) and HG L (for 10/11-speed) freehub bodies. This makes the wheelset incredibly versatile and a great value for riders with different drivetrains or those planning future upgrades.

WH-RX180-TL-700C Wheelset Specs:

• Rim: Hooked Tubeless Aluminum
• Internal Width: 25mm
• Weight: 2105g (HG L) / 2113g (MICRO SPLINE)

With the introduction of the wireless 1x12 GRX Di2, Shimano has delivered a comprehensive, rider-focused ecosystem that promises unparalleled performance, durability, and the freedom to build the perfect gravel machine. More info at Shimano.