Product Review

If you've been jealous of your 11-speed-convert friends, but just haven't wanted to smash the piggy bank open to buy a new groupset, the new Shimano 105 5800 group is what you've been waiting for. The 105 ST-5800 11-Speed STI Shifters feature technology that has trickled all the way down from Shimano's Dura-Ace line, but in a more affordable package. The first thing you'll notice about the 5800 group is that, yes, it does have 11-speeds. Drawing from the popularity of the Dura-Ace and Ultegra groups, the 5800 is now compatible with the new and improved CS-5800 for a full range of 22 gears. Unlike the last iteration of 105, the new STI shifters feature a more compact and streamlined lever that fits into your hand. It is also adjustable for reach so that your hand-to-brake interface is secure. The shifting mechanism itself draws inspiration from Shimano's top-tier groups, with shorter strokes and polymer cables for faster, more accurate shifting. The biggest noticeable difference between the 105 shifters and their big brothers is that the levers are alloy rather than carbon construction. This, as well as alloy verses lighter weight titanium bolts, increases the weight of the shifters a bit from the top-tier models. The Shimano 105 ST-5800 11-Speed STI Shifters come in one color and are available as Left, Right, or as a Set.