From small beginnings in 1921, the Shimano company has grown to operate at the forefront of the bicycle component market. The early range of components included the external speed changers of the 1950s, a system that used Shimano’s indexing shifting mechanism and paved the way for the brands revered and reliable groupsets of today.
From the outset, high quality and reliability have been the driving factors behind the Japanese company’s approach towards bicycle products. This is echoed by the current president, Yozo Shimano, who speaks of a future in which Shimano will continue supplying people with “captivating products”, allowing future generations to experience nature and do it with that reassuring click of a reliable Shimano gear change.
Shimano Cycling Products
Shimano’s cycling products are renowned for reliability and innovation. The range of on and off road groupsets are perfect examples of this continued pursuit of excellence. The brand’s product lines can be viewed as a stream with features in higher-end models trickling down into more affordable options. Component range on offer from Shimano covers everything from the drivetrain, braking system, pedals, and the gear shifters and cables, down to a wide range of wheels and parts available in a range of depths and specifications from entry level through to market leading options.
Road
Shimano’s road cycling range is the market leader and can be seen peppered through the WorldTour peloton and adorning the bikes of weekend warriors alike.
Dura Ace is the top of the range and is designed with performance in mind. Ultegra and 105 are the more budget friendly options but still carry a number of premium features. Read our complete guide to road bike groupsets for more information on the range. And if you’re interested to know about Shimano’s best, read about the new Dura-Ace R9100 groupset or the 2018 Ultegra R8000 groupset.
Mountain
Mountain biking is tough on equipment and Shimano components are a proven choice. Just as in the road line, a trickle down of technology can be seen through the range.
XTR is the flagship groupset of the mountain bike lineup and is trusted by top racers around the world with XT and Deore being more budget friendly options. Learn more about Shimano’s mountain bike range by reading our complete guide to mountain bike groupsets on the BikeExchange Blog.
City and Comfort
The Japanese brand produces a range of high quality, durable components for city and comfort riding. Built using componentry pioneered on road and mountain bikes, the commuter range also includes internal gearing options, both in mechanical and Di2 (electronic) configuration. The internal hub range is perfect for those seeking a low maintenance and simple option that’s sure to enhance the ride.
STEPS E-Bike System
STEPS is Shimano’s own e-bike system. The system features an intelligent crank-based motor that is virtually silent when in operation. There are a range of powerful motor and battery options on offer, with varying levels of assistance and a maximum range of close to 100km available from a single charge. The STEPS system also features seamless shifting, making for an easier ride, with automatic shifting available on compatible Di2 internal gear hubs.
Components
In addition to groupsets, Shimano is a market leader in pedal systems and offer a wide-range of wheelsets for mountain biking and road cycling.
Lifestyle gear
Shimano’s lifestyle gear provides the final touch to completing an all-encompassing range. The lifestyle options on offer are sure to complete any riders kit and include; Apparel, Footwear, Eyewear and Bags.
