2025 has been the year of wireless for Shimano. After waiting years for truly wireless shifting from the brand, it’s refreshed its whole MTB range and introduced GRX Di2. However, it doesn’t stop there, as today Shimano has unveiled GRX RX717 that boasts all of the wireless convenience with a lower price tag.
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Contrary to some preconceptions in the market, Shimano reckons that wireless means durable and reliable. And with GRX Di2 launched in June, it was only a matter of time before a more affordable wireless groupset became available. GRX RX717 is that very groupset that claims to boast that reliability, but at a friendlier price.
Of course, the groupset uses Shimano’s fully wireless Di2 platform, and with that, GRX RX717 is compatible with all 12-speed wireless drop bar shifters, as well as the Deore, XTR, and Deore XT flat-bar shifters. That provides plenty of opportunity for upgrades down the line, and to run the gravel groupset on flat bar gravel bikes.
Aiming to hit those durability marks, the RX717 derailleur uses a very similar design to the mountain bike derailleurs. That means that there’s a built-in skid plate, and its battery is hidden well out of the way. Importantly, this mech also uses the Automatic Impact Recovery function, which allows the mech to move with an impact and return to its original position afterwards. Additionally, there’s the Shadow ES tech for chain retention.
With new shifting comes new brakes, and Shimano reckons that the snappily named GRX 12-speed ST-RX715-R Di2 Hydraulic Disc Brake DUAL CONTROL lever is a highlight of the system. Of course, it provides 1×12 shifting on the right lever, and there’s an adjustment for the lever’s reach. They use CR1632 batteries, and Shimano claims that they’ll last up to four years.
If you’re riding one of the brand’s posher drivetrains, such as Dura-Ace, Ultegra, or 105, the new left side lever will be compatible as a budget-friendly replacement.
As for prices, expect to spend £300 on a right-hand lever and hydraulic flat mount brake/shifter, £280 on the left-hand lever and hydraulic flat mount brake, £380 on the derailleur, £40 on a battery, and £30 on a charger. This setup uses the existing Deore and SLX mountain bike cassettes at £99 and £115 respectively. Cranksets will set you back £150, and brake rotors are £40 a piece.
