Product Review

Shimano's 105 groupset has always been a reflection of the firm's higher-tiered Ultegra and Dura-Ace components and it's never been closer in use than with this edition of R7000. The 105 ST-R7000 STI Shifters are influential in bridging that performance and ergonomic gap and if you are a self-sponsoring race or you simply don't mind its few extra grams, it's going to take some serious convincing to justify the more expensive offerings. The R7000 shifters benefit from trickle-down engineering Shimano first launches on its Dura-Ace and Ultegra groups and we can attest that the same crisp, precise, smooth, and light shifting and braking actions are present in these levers. Shimano updated the internal shifting mechanism and its feel is virtually the same as its costlier siblings as well as performing better when under load, ideal during race conditions and fast group rides. Additionally, the newer ergonomic design features a revised lever curve for faster, more intuitive, and comfortable shifting and braking. These levers ship with excellent Optislick cables and housing and the lever's reach is adjustable.