In the previous comparison, the external shape and ergonomics of the older 11 speed Ultegra Di2 shifter ST-R8070 was compared with the new 12 speed Ultegra Di2 shifter ST-R8170.
Now, let's look at the internal area of the shifters, with the rubber hood removed. Just before that, check out the weight difference of the shifters.
Old ST-R8070 shifter, 182 grams per side, giving 364 grams per pair.
New ST-R8170 shifter, 192 grams per side, giving 384 grams per pair.
There is a slight weight increase of 20 grams per pair, which is not a problem given that the ergonomics have been improved quite a bit, along with the wireless capability.
Next, the rubber hoods are removed to check out how it looks under the cover.
Old shifter on the left. Ribs and cutouts are larger on the new shifter. General shape and layout looks similar.
Di2 ports are located at the side, connected to the top hidden button and shifter buttons below by wires.
New shifter on the right has a fixed front cover for aero hoods grip, while the old shifter on the left has a top section that swings out when you operate the brake lever.
New shifter on the right has a taller hood that houses the battery, while the bleeding port has been shifted rearwards.
New shifter on the right has larger and fewer ribs and cutouts, but they are much deeper. Free stroke adjust screw and lever reach adjust screw are at the same place.
Both shifters have a hidden top button under the rubber hood, which can be customized for different functions. I actually prefer the Di2 button location on the GRX Di2 shifter, which feels more ergonomic to me.
Levers look almost the same.
Rear of the master piston is actually hollow to save weight. The new design on the right looks more lightweight.
From left to right, the 1st gen (ST-R785), 2nd gen (ST-R8070) and 3rd gen (ST-R8170) road hydraulic Di2 shifters.
Side view comparing the 1st, 2nd and 3rd gen shifters.
The other side view. Note how the 1st gen shifter has a much higher brake lever pivot position, which is now being used for the GRX Di2 shifter.
In summary, the older 11 speed and new 12 speed Di2 shifters are quite similar internally, except for the fixed front cover area. Otherwise, the layout and concept remains the same.
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