Shimano Ultegra 6700 Sti Levers

Shimano Ultegra ST-6700 STI Levers

Carbon brake levers, ergonomic hoods and hood brackets: Shimano ST-6700 dual control levers offer the same improvements we appreciate in Dura-Ace ST-7900 levers.

• Carbon fibre brake levers.
• These levers are reach adjustable.
• Internal cable routing.
• Compatible with Dura-Ace RD-7800, Ultegra RD-6600 or 105 RD 5600 rear mech.
• Only compatible with Shimano FD-6700 Ultegra front mech.
• 2 x 10-speed.
• Supplied with PTFE-coated stainless steel cables.
• Approximate weight: 445g.

Review
There's plenty of Dura Ace 7900 – the shape of the unit, the Carbon brake lever and the internal cable routing – evident here. Less obvious but just as important in terms of the feel of the lever is the repositioned pivot which changes the action of the lever slightly. From the hoods (and I spend a lot of time there) it's easier to use the brakes, you don't need to grab quite as much lever which will be good news for riders with smaller hands. And there's more good news in that regard: pop off the front cap and you get a reach adjustment screw to dial the levers in.

The internal routing is mostly a cosmetic improvement – it doesn't affect the function at all, really – but I much prefer the clean look, and my money's on the technology filtering right down the range. The only slight issue is when fitting tri bars, as there's more wires coming out where the clamps go. However, not wrapping the tape as close to the stem cures the problem, giving the cables more room to get out of the way.

The shifting action initially felt a little heavier than last year but a few hundred miles and some GT-85 later it's more or less the same in terms of weight. The throw is similar too, and the action is a little bit more positive. Shifting from the hoods is very good with both levers easy to locate and simple to use. In terms of action and performance it's pretty much indistinguishable from Dura Ace.'
road.cc

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