As some of you will no doubt know, Blair has been testing/riding the new Shimano Di2 groupset. It is built up on none less than the 2009 Specialized Tarmac S-Works SL2 frame.  The Di2 has really taken this bike to another level.

Shimano claims the new electronic shifting system is faster than the traditional mechanical cable system. The Di2 levers are a smaller, snug fit for your hands and the shifting of the gears requires less effort and reach than the standard STI shifters. The shift works by the rider just pushing buttons and the sensors relaying the message to the front and rear derailleurs via an electronic cable.

The front and rear derailleurs look fairly normal, as you can see in the photo. You can see the battery pack is slim and is fastened to the front bidon cage mounts which tucks it nicely up out of the way.  

Blair has been impressed by the electronic system. He said that it is astoundingly smooth, even in comparison to the already buttery smooth Dura Ace. Its almost scary how exact the shift is.

Could this be the way of the future? We don't know, but we're impressed. We say good work Shimano for progress!