
The coolest bit is with the cranks. The 7800 generation carbon cranks are still a ways off, but the big ring is now hollow. Shimano have invested heavily in forging, and this is a pretty unexpected application that should increase ring stiffness. You'll notice the clean look that a lack of chainring bolts gives, suggesting that the new rings won't be cross-compatible with other cranksets. A compact version will be available, but we're not sure what that means with a non-standard mounting.
Shift levers will get carbon cranks and along the bar routing for both cables, a la Campagnolo. Standalone hubs will be available as well- something that was missing in 7800 and will please traditionalists everywhere.
Aesthetically, the group borrows a bit from XTR, with anodizing followed by surface machining to create contrasting surfaces. We're not sure how well it works on the brakes, but it may well grow on us. Velonews looks to have had the scoop on this one, and you should head over there for more details and pictures...
www.velonews.com
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