Ultegra

Ultegra is Shimano's line of mid- to high-end road bicycle groupsets, designed to offer performance close to the company's top-tier Dura-Ace at a more accessible price. It covers the drivetrain and braking systems used on road bikes, including front and rear derailleurs, shift/brake levers (STI), a crankset, chain, cassette, bottom brackets, and brakes with options for rim or disc brake designs across generations. Ultegra components are commonly found on road bikes ranging from endurance models to race-oriented machines and are favored for a balance of weight, stiffness, durability, and serviceability.

Since its introduction, Ultegra has progressed through several generations, expanding from early 9- or 10-speed mechanical configurations to later 11- and 12-speed offerings. The line has typically paralleled Dura-Ace in features and performance while maintaining lower cost. In addition to mechanical shifting, Ultegra is available in an electronic shifting variant called Ultegra Di2, which uses a rechargeable battery and wired communication to operate the derailleurs and shifters, delivering precise shifts and quiet operation.

Components are designed to be compatible within the Ultegra family and with certain other Shimano lines, but mixing different speed counts or very different generations can lead to suboptimal shifting or drive-train wear. Regular maintenance—adjusting cables and brakes for mechanical versions, or checking the battery and software for Di2—helps ensure consistent performance.