Shimano
Dura Ace
At the top of Shimano's technological tree is the Dura Ace groupset, which represents the very best that they have to offer the road bike world. These components are the best performing and lightest that Shimano offer, made from the best materials such as carbon fibre and titanium.
Dura Ace was introduced in 1973, intended for use by professional riders, and has seen countless advancements and improvements over the years. From indexed shifting in the 1980s which revolutionised shifting, to the introduction of electronically actuated derailleurs in the Dura Ace Di2 range in 2009, this range has always been at the forefront of cycling technology.
The latest iteration of the Dura Ace groupset sees a shift to 12 speed, for both the mechanical version and the Dura Ace Di2 variant of the components, providing riders with a wide range of gears, without sacrificing the smooth shift between each sprocket. Cassettes are available up to a 34 tooth sprocket, and all variants use an 11 tooth at the smallest end.
In the latest 9200 series, the Dura Ace crankset is available in a wide variety of lenghts, from 160mm to 177.5mm, so you can find the perfect fit for your riding style.
Shimano makes no pretence as to the purpose of Dura Ace. This is a no-compromise groupset aimed at pro grand tour wins and serious enthusiasts who crave the very best in performance. No corners have been cut in the contruction of all of the components, with carbon fibre, high-grade aluminium and titanium found throughout, maximising performance and minimising weight. This is the most expensive component range available from Shimano, but it is also the best.