Boardman Bikes have announced that four of their road bikes will now be sold with Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting.
The upgrade will be given to two AiR (Aerodynamic Racing) frames – the AiR/9.2S and AiR/9.0S – and two SLR (Superlight Racing) frames – the SLR/9.2S and SLR/9.0S. Both frames have been redesigned to accommodate Di2 shifting, with full internal cable routing and battery mounting points.
The AiR/9.2S will be specced with Mavic Ksyrium wheels compared to the Cosmic Elites on the AiR/9.2, and cost £3,499.99 or US$4,999.99, an increase of £900 over the AiR/9.2.
Similarly, the AiR/9.0S features Mavic Aksium wheels and will sell for £2,699.99 or US$3,999.99. For reference, the AiR/9.0 is £1,999.99 and comes with Mavic Ksyrium Equipe wheels.
The SLR models get similar treatment: pricing is the same as for the equivalent AiR bikes, so £3,499.99 / US$4,999.99 for the SLR/9.2S and £2,699.99 / US$3,999.99 for the SLR/9.0S.
The SLR/9.0S will sell for £2,699.99 / US$3,999.99
Company R&D director Chris Boardman had plenty of experience with electronic shifting when he was a pro, testing the ill-fated Mavic Zap/Mektronic groupset. But just because something doesn't quite work doesn't mean it's a bad idea.
"I've always been able to see the value of getting precise, predictable gear changes even when under stress on a mountain or sprinting out of a corner," said Boardman.
"Having used electronic gears for eight years as a pro rider, I've always appreciated the benefit – so much so I've always wanted to incorporate the principle into the range. Thankfully, technology has now advanced, and with Shimano releasing the Ultegra level option we are able to satisfy our customers' increasing demand for this product. The four new Elite Series models are the result of this, with additional models already in the pipeline."
The new Di2 bikes will be available worldwide from mid October 2012, via selected Boardman dealers in the UK, or via Wiggle worldwide. For more information, visit the Boardman website.
