Long regarded as the first ‘proper’ groupset in the Shimano hierarchy, 105 has been updated to more closely reflect the higher tiers.

Following updates to the Dura Ace and later Ultegra groupsets, it comes as no surprise that 105 was next in the queue for some trickle-down technology. As you’d expect, looks have been updated all round to match the latest models from Shimano, and so has functionality.

You can expect to find incremental improvements to shifting – think easier to change gear, and more reliable when you do – but there are some slightly more noticeable changes, too. The new rear derailleur now uses the Shadow design, with a long cage option which will work with up to an 11-34 cassette. The front has been changed to give more tyre clearance and a helpful allen key cable adjustment, which hopefully means no need to mess around with in-line adjusters.

You’ll also get UCI-compliant rounded brake rotors on the disc model and, best of all, redesigned hydraulic levers that look more like the top end models. With any luck, that’ll mark the death of those pug-fugly ones that everyone has been trying to avoid since they came out.

Shimano claim the groupset will be available by June, and will be offered in black or silver. More pictures below:

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