Shimano Ultegra R8000 and Ultegra Di2 R8070: all you need to know

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This article originally appeared on BikeRadar

Shimano’s new Ultegra groupset has now been officially announced. Dubbed R8000 for the mechanical version and R8070 for the electronic Di2 variant with hydraulic disc brakes, the new Ultegra's components will supersede the incredibly successful 6800 and 6870.

 The biggest news is that Ultegra branded hydraulic disc brakes are here, though headline improvements include support for a 34t cassette along with the usual weight loss and stiffness enhancements we've come to expect for a group that benefits heavily from Shimano's flagship Dura-Ace line.

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There are also a couple of new Ultegra branded wheelsets and an update for Ultegra's carbon SPD-SL pedals.

Shimano Ultegra R8000: every variation explained

Shimano's alphanumeric designations can get a bit confusing, so here are the four versions of the new groupset:

The trickle-down treatment

Shimano Ultegra BR-R8070 hydraulic disc brakes

Shimano Ultegra R8000 STIs – more precise and ergonomic shifters, further Di2 functionality

Shimano Ultegra FC-R8000 Hollowtech II crankset

Shimano Ultegra FD-R8050 Di2 front derailleur

Shimano Ultegra RD-R8050 Di2 rear derailleur

Shimano Ultegra CS-R8000 and CS-HG800 cassettes

Synchronized shifting

Shimano Ultegra FD-R8000 mechanical front derailleur

Shimano Ultegra RD-R8000 rear derailleur

Shimano Ultegra BR-R8000 dual-pivot brake caliper

All-new Shimano Ultegra wheels

Shimano Ultegra ST-8060 Synchronized TT shifters

Shimano Ultegra R8000 weights

Pricing and availability

You can read more at Cyclingnews.com

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