New Dura Ace in 2026? What we know so far
The new year is finally upon us and that can mean only one thing, it’s new Dura Ace year! At least that’s what we’re expecting. Ever since 7800 in 2004 up until R9100 in 2016 each new iteration was released 4 years apart. R9200 broke that pattern by releasing 5 years after its predecessor, and given we didn’t get a new release on the groups fourth anniversary, it’s highly likely we’ll see R9300 landing sometime this year. Traditionally debuting around the Tour de France, we tend to get a glimpse of test mules at training camps and spring classics.
Until then though, we’ve done some sleuthing and compiled a list of what we know, what we don't and what falls within the realm of possibility.
Wireless
From a builders perspective, wireless batteries make installing a groupset a much simpler task. From a riders perspective, it depends. Having a single, internally installed battery offers a longer run time, that removes the worry about either the rear or front battery going flat. Plus the derailleurs themselves look cleaner if aesthetics are your thing. On the other hand, stretching a charging cable to the bike itself can be difficult or impossible depending on where you store it and if the battery goes flat, the whole system dies.
Given GRX and XTR have now gone wireless, it seems reasonable to assume R9300 will follow suit. One issue they face though is SRAM holds a patent (EP3165439A1) that specifically mentions interchangeability between the batteries of both front and rear derailleurs, to such an extent that Campagnolo opted for differently sized units to avoid infringement. If Shimano are unable to find a work around, they could at least utilise the BT-DN320 battery from their Gravel/MTB offerings for the rear mech, providing interoperability for customers who ride multiple disciplines. Although in a patent filed in May 2024 they showed a design for differently sized batteries, neither of which match the BT-DN320.
Two by Thirteen
The May 2024 patent also hints at a 2x13 setup, matching Campagnolo’s Super Record 13 which demonstrated the configuration was possible on a fully wireless system when it launched last summer. This would likely remove any backwards compatibility with the current crop of 12 speed components, but maintains Dura Ace as a pure road group with wide gearing options.
An additional sprocket does allow for smoother cadence between gears, especially on larger cassettes such as 11–30 or 11–34. Which given the recent trend in the pro peloton, is mostly beneficial to those running a single chainring up front. Shimano sponsored teams have to resort to third party chainrings to enable a 1x, and even then it is largely reserved for TT bikes. Offering the new Dura Ace with an officially supported one by configuration would offer teams greater flexibility, but also provide customers with an option that continues to gain in popularity.
Direct Mount Derailleur
Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) is SRAM’s attempt to unify the industry with a standardised design, replacing a component that is very often frame specific. It also facilitates their Full Mount attachment, which eliminates alignment variables making for a much easier setup and improved shifting under load. Even though the majority of benefits from Full Mount are felt by MTB and gravel riders, there are still advantages that apply to road.
As a result we could see Shimano introducing a mounting mechanism that utilises UDH and its specifications to bring these benefits to the new Dura Ace. A smoother shifting experience and streamlined setup would certainly be prominent selling points, although some cite the fact we haven’t seen them adopt the standard for XTR or GRX as reason to be pessimistic on this one.
Carbon Cranks
Another consideration is whether or not Shimano will finally switch to carbon fibre for their crank arms. The much publicised issues and subsequent recall of aluminium Ultegra and Dura Ace cranks back in 2023 may provide the catalyst for a change. Another would be SRAM and Campagnolo having them well beat when it comes to weight. A SRAM Red E1 crankset weighs in at 557.9g compared to Dura Ace R9200 at a hefty 678.3g.
Sadly though there isn’t much out there that hints at them making the switch. They’ve been steadfast in the past with regards to Hollowtech II technology, and with full wireless and 13 speeds expected, there may simply not have been enough development time to add this to the list.
Overall this is shaping up to be a revolutionary Dura Ace groupset. It has only been 5 years since R9200’s release, but such has been the progression of new tech and trends that Shimano have many facets to consider. Delivering on expectations of a fully wireless, UHD compatible, 1x optional, carbon cranked groupset that comes in under weight is a daunting challenge. Thankfully for us there’s only a few months left to wait before we get to see how they did, either way we’re excited!