I have not really had to do much with my DI2 system for the last 6 years, I just charge it on a regular schedule. But here in Kona, two days before the big race, I had completely forgotten how to check my battery for charging AND I did not know about the different modes. YOU HAVE SAVED MY RACE! THANK YOU!
I just picked up a used Domane and trying to figure out DI2. Found this channel and these videos are excellent! Short, well explained and easy to get through my thick skull
Great video. I just got a new bike and got no instruction how to use Di2. The instruction in this video is perfect for a Technophobe like me. Thanks🚴🚴♂🚴♀
Thank you so much for that comment! I’m so happy I could help because I know there isn’t a lot of info out there! Enjoy the DI2, I think it’s awesome!! Dave
My understanding is that initial compensation is to keep your cadence the same. After that compensation is done when you start shifting again like needing easier gearing in the rear for a steeper climb then that compensation starts again, as needed, depending on what is needed. That can all be confusing and/or not doing what you really want so I use manual mode and shift when I want to.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment! Lately, I have been putting my bike into Full- Synchro mode. I never thought I would say it, but I really like having the Shimano DI2 take over for me! Dave
@@davescycling please share any inputs good and bad or any difference from shifting between the Semi-Synchro and Full-Synchro. Currently, I'm using Semi-Synchro on my bike.
With Semi-synchro, anytime you shift the front derailleur from the big ring to the small ring or vice versa, the Shimano DI2 automatically adjusts the rear derailleur to compensate for the large jump in gear ratio. With full Synchro, all you need to do is shift the rear derailer up or down as needed and the DI2 will adjust the front and rear derailer’s to make sure it gets you to the next available gear ratio. It does take a little getting used to because when it is shifting automatically in the front and the rear, it feels kind of weird but once you get used to it, it’s not bad at all. I just find it nice especially when I’m tired to only need to hit one button to get to the next gear and not have to worry about the combination of front and rear. It’s kind of like the difference between an automobile, manual and automatic transmission . Once you let the automatic transmission take over, you just get used to some of the quirks when it shifts lol. Also, with full Synchro, you can still always instantly override it, and put it in whatever gear you want. Dave
Thanks Dave! Questions: what is the real purpose of semi, or full sync? In what scenario would they be beneficial or why you would use them over manual? Or-- is the answer to all of that simply summarized by saying, the purpose of the modes are simply meant to limit/ remove the manual process of shifting for you, and there really is no significant benefit? Basically just like an auto/ semi-auto transmission in a car, that does the work for you-- versus a manual. Thanks !!
Thanks so much for watching the video and asking your question! Basically it is just to give you some options as to how your bike shifts. I will say that at first I was all about staying in manual mode to make sure that I had total control over the shifting. After a while, I decided to try the other shift modes and lo and behold, I am now a big fan of full Synchro Mode! What I love is that I only need to press one lever to shift up and one lever to shift down. In full synchro mode, you still have total control to override, so, for example when I come to a stop or a traffic light I simply shift my front derailer to the small chain ring so I can start off any lower gear. I hope this helps answer your question. Dave
@davescycling gothca, thanks! So basically just makes it easier to cruise and have full function of the gear range without having to actuate individually all the gear range. For contrast, I enjoy shifting through all the gears when riding, over the varying terrain dynamics. Others may just prefer to pedal only and have the bike do most of the "work."
@@gibzen9617 Another example: I've two SW 9150 switches on the bar itself, between STI and stem ("tops"). On longer distance rides, I can still shift remaining on the tops.
Excellent video I just learnt to change the mode to manual as I don´t see any advantage using any of the synchro modes, It`s better to have total control of the shifting. Thanks for this video
Thanks for sharing! At first, I agreed with you, and wanted to maintain full control by keeping it in manual mode. But I decided to try the other modes for a while, and I am now loving the full Synchro mode! I love that I only need to press one button to move up or down the gear ratios but when I get to a traffic light, I can still override it manually and put the front derailer to the small chain ring. Thanks for watching the video and leaving a comment. I really appreciate it! Dave
@@davescycling Thanks for this video. I've just set up full syncro mode but I'm not sure what to expect if I override it manually and put the front derailer to the small chain ring when stopped at a light. Doesn't that make the startup a bit tricky as the front derailleur can only move the chain once I start pedaling. What am I missing?!
@@francessummerhill654 you would need to override the front derailleur before you come to a stop so it has time to shift. Then you start up will be in a low gear and the Full Synchro will operate normally from whatever gear you are in.
Hi Dave have you done a video on GRX adjusting front electronic derailleur. My chain regularly drops off the front and is scratching the cranks on my new bike. I'm in semi synchro mode but can't see a particular time when this always happens.
Full syncro is kinda nice nice to prevent cross chaining, but I find the shifting from large to small chainring kinda jarring.. especially if pedaling hard.
This is really good video! I see your rear derailleur compensate/adjust when the front derailleur move to the smaller ring on your last demonstration. Mine does the opposite where when I change to bigger cassette at the back, my front derailleur changes to smaller ring (same thing as yours) but rear cassette just stays at the bigger ring and doesn't compensate. Also same thing happens when I move to smaller Cassette, front derailleur changes to the bigger ring automatically but rear derailleur doesn't compensate/move to the bigger ring. How can I fix this? Also, do I need to charge both front and rear derailleur for di2?
Chan, thanks for watching the video. If what you say is happening in "Full Synchro" mode, sounds like maybe yours needs to be configured or software updated. If you connect it to a computer and use the e-Tube application, (or use the phone app if you have the wireless option) it will allow you to choose the compensation from 0-2 gears I believe. Also, the 10 or 11 speed Di2 only needs the battery charged as it is all connected by wires. If you have the latest 12 speed Di2 (I do not have this), I believe you will need to charge each derailler as my understanding is that it is truly wireless. Dave
@@davescycling Dave, thanks for the detail reply. I have 11 speed so I guess I only need to charge the Shimano E-Tube Junction (SM-EW90-A). Do you have video showing how to update software?
Chan, I do not, but I will try to put one together tonight or tomorrow at least with the basics. No promises but I have been meaning to do it anyway! I will let you know when it is up. Dave
Thanks for the question! Bikes with 11 speed Di2 do not come with wireless capability. You need to add that option. I had the same experience. You can connect to your computer using the charger cable but no to the App unless the wireless unit has been installed. You can do it yourself as it is not super expensive nor is it very difficult to do. Here is a video: How to Install a Shimano DI2 Wireless Unit in a 2021 Trek Domane SL7 #di2 #trekbike #shimano ruclips.net/video/V_xfIfLl2JY/видео.html
@@davescycling thank you very much. Well, now my question comes to know the process to adding functions to the buttons on top of my brake levers. That’s why I wanted to sync the derailleur. TIA.
Thanks for watching the video and asking a question! I was a “Manual shifting” guy until I recently decided to experiment with the different modes. I am kind of warming up to Full-Synchro because where I ride is nonstop up and down hills and it is nice not to have to think about shifting other than “up or down“. I also love that I can change modes at any time while riding! Dave
Hi I want to put my di2 in pairing mode but I really don’t know how. I checked on the internet and it says that I have to hold my button for 0,5 to 2 seconds but the lights aren’t flashing and I can’t see it on my E-TUBE app.
As it turns out, once I started riding in full-synchro mode I decided that it is now my favorite mode! When I first got my bike with the DI2 system, I was very reluctant to change the mode because I liked having full control over my shifting. Then I started experimenting with semi synchro mode. I did like semi-synchro, but as you suggested, after riding for a little while and full-Synchro, I love it! It lets the bike automatically give you the next harder or easiest gear while still allowing you to override it anytime you want. Thanks so much for your comment!
@@davescycling 100% keep on full synchro - I rode this evening and the front chain ring downshifted as I downshifted on a climb that was bumpy. The chain jumped off and got damaged - can happen if chainring downshifts under power on bumpy terrain, just something to be mindful of :)
Yes, there is a small learning curve. The automatic shifting can be abrupt! Sorry to hear there was damage. I hope it wasn’t too bad. That was one of the things I did not like at first, but once you get accustomed to it, it’s all good.
@@davescycling I changed a setting now , maybe that will help : the stock setting for when you are shifting to the easier rear sprockets is when you’re second from the top and want to shift to the top (easiest) it then drops the chain to the front ring . I figured this is risky because the chain is already tentioned more inwards . So I edited it now to drop to the small front chainring when i downshift from 3rd easiest to 2nd easiest VS 2nd to 1st if you know what I mean - let me know what u think
A gear hub is a different story! I do not know about them, but I am pretty sure they do not have multiple shift modes. Thanks so much for your question! Dave.
I love my frame bag!! I know it takes away from the bike, but I like to carry food, a few tools and have a spot to stow extra clothing when needed. Thanks for watching the video and I do appreciate the comment! Dave
😀🚲👌Please SUBSCRIBE if you found this video useful! We appreciate the support!!
I have not really had to do much with my DI2 system for the last 6 years, I just charge it on a regular schedule. But here in Kona, two days before the big race, I had completely forgotten how to check my battery for charging AND I did not know about the different modes. YOU HAVE SAVED MY RACE! THANK YOU!
Thanks so much for the comment! So glad it helped you out!! I wish you great luck in the race!!
Dave
I just picked up a used Domane and trying to figure out DI2. Found this channel and these videos are excellent! Short, well explained and easy to get through my thick skull
Mark, thanks for watching my channel and leaving a nice comment! More videos to come!
Dave
Really good video. After watching, I updated my Di2 to full sync in two seconds. Thanks!
Awesome! Thanks for the comment! How do you like Full Synchro? I just started using it more and I have to say I think I am a fan!
Dave
Excellent, concise explanation of the Di2 shifting modes. Thank you.
Thank you for watching the video and leaving a comment! I really appreciate it!
Dave
Great vid. Concise and well explained. Thanks.
Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment!
Great video. I just got a new bike and got no instruction how to use Di2. The instruction in this video is perfect for a Technophobe like me. Thanks🚴🚴♂🚴♀
Thank you so much for that comment! I’m so happy I could help because I know there isn’t a lot of info out there! Enjoy the DI2, I think it’s awesome!!
Dave
Well explained I tried it on my di2 and now it’s so easy thanks 😅 I copied your transcribe into note pad with the link so easy to share now 😅
Thanks for watching and leaving a comment! I love to hear that my videos helped!
Dave
Clear demonstration thanks 👌
Glad it was helpful! And thank you for leaving a comment!
Dave
My understanding is that initial compensation is to keep your cadence the same. After that compensation is done when you start shifting again like needing easier gearing in the rear for a steeper climb then that compensation starts again, as needed, depending on what is needed. That can all be confusing and/or not doing what you really want so I use manual mode and shift when I want to.
Very clear and informative explanation. thank you
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment! Lately, I have been putting my bike into Full- Synchro mode.
I never thought I would say it, but I really like having the Shimano DI2 take over for me!
Dave
@@davescycling please share any inputs good and bad or any difference from shifting between the Semi-Synchro and Full-Synchro. Currently, I'm using Semi-Synchro on my bike.
With Semi-synchro, anytime you shift the front derailleur from the big ring to the small ring or vice versa, the Shimano DI2 automatically adjusts the rear derailleur to compensate for the large jump in gear ratio. With full Synchro, all you need to do is shift the rear derailer up or down as needed and the DI2 will adjust the front and rear derailer’s to make sure it gets you to the next available gear ratio. It does take a little getting used to because when it is shifting automatically in the front and the rear, it feels kind of weird but once you get used to it, it’s not bad at all. I just find it nice especially when I’m tired to only need to hit one button to get to the next gear and not have to worry about the combination of front and rear.
It’s kind of like the difference between an automobile, manual and automatic transmission . Once you let the automatic transmission take over, you just get used to some of the quirks when it shifts lol.
Also, with full Synchro, you can still always instantly override it, and put it in whatever gear you want.
Dave
Thanks so much.. best explanation i have seen
Thanks a lot for watching the video and leaving a comment, I really appreciate it!
Dave
Thanks Dave! Questions: what is the real purpose of semi, or full sync? In what scenario would they be beneficial or why you would use them over manual? Or-- is the answer to all of that simply summarized by saying, the purpose of the modes are simply meant to limit/ remove the manual process of shifting for you, and there really is no significant benefit? Basically just like an auto/ semi-auto transmission in a car, that does the work for you-- versus a manual. Thanks !!
Thanks so much for watching the video and asking your question! Basically it is just to give you some options as to how your bike shifts. I will say that at first I was all about staying in manual mode to make sure that I had total control over the shifting. After a while, I decided to try the other shift modes and lo and behold, I am now a big fan of full Synchro Mode! What I love is that I only need to press one lever to shift up and one lever to shift down. In full synchro mode, you still have total control to override, so, for example when I come to a stop or a traffic light I simply shift my front derailer to the small chain ring so I can start off any lower gear. I hope this helps answer your question.
Dave
@davescycling gothca, thanks! So basically just makes it easier to cruise and have full function of the gear range without having to actuate individually all the gear range. For contrast, I enjoy shifting through all the gears when riding, over the varying terrain dynamics. Others may just prefer to pedal only and have the bike do most of the "work."
@@gibzen9617 Another example: I've two SW 9150 switches on the bar itself, between STI and stem ("tops"). On longer distance rides, I can still shift remaining on the tops.
Very clear and helpful. thank you
Phil, thank you for the comment, very much appreciated!
Dave
Excellent video I just learnt to change the mode to manual as I don´t see any advantage using any of the synchro modes, It`s better to have total control of the shifting. Thanks for this video
Thanks for sharing! At first, I agreed with you, and wanted to maintain full control by keeping it in manual mode. But I decided to try the other modes for a while, and I am now loving the full Synchro mode! I love that I only need to press one button to move up or down the gear ratios but when I get to a traffic light, I can still override it manually and put the front derailer to the small chain ring.
Thanks for watching the video and leaving a comment. I really appreciate it!
Dave
@@davescycling Good to know your experience, might be I try later those modes. Thanks !
@@davescycling Thanks for this video. I've just set up full syncro mode but I'm not sure what to expect if I override it manually and put the front derailer to the small chain ring when stopped at a light. Doesn't that make the startup a bit tricky as the front derailleur can only move the chain once I start pedaling. What am I missing?!
@@francessummerhill654 you would need to override the front derailleur before you come to a stop so it has time to shift. Then you start up will be in a low gear and the Full Synchro will operate normally from whatever gear you are in.
Hi Dave have you done a video on GRX adjusting front electronic derailleur. My chain regularly drops off the front and is scratching the cranks on my new bike. I'm in semi synchro mode but can't see a particular time when this always happens.
I have not, but here is a good video by "Art's Cyclery", ruclips.net/video/PU2kQp9IeBc/видео.htmlsi=TtV1vidpaNlFpRue
Full syncro is kinda nice nice to prevent cross chaining, but I find the shifting from large to small chainring kinda jarring.. especially if pedaling hard.
Yes, you do have to get used to it!
For quite some time I didn’t want any part of that, but I finally started using it and I’ve grown to like it.
This is really good video! I see your rear derailleur compensate/adjust when the front derailleur move to the smaller ring on your last demonstration. Mine does the opposite where when I change to bigger cassette at the back, my front derailleur changes to smaller ring (same thing as yours) but rear cassette just stays at the bigger ring and doesn't compensate. Also same thing happens when I move to smaller Cassette, front derailleur changes to the bigger ring automatically but rear derailleur doesn't compensate/move to the bigger ring. How can I fix this? Also, do I need to charge both front and rear derailleur for di2?
Chan, thanks for watching the video. If what you say is happening in "Full Synchro" mode, sounds like maybe yours needs to be configured or software updated. If you connect it to a computer and use the e-Tube application, (or use the phone app if you have the wireless option) it will allow you to choose the compensation from 0-2 gears I believe.
Also, the 10 or 11 speed Di2 only needs the battery charged as it is all connected by wires. If you have the latest 12 speed Di2 (I do not have this), I believe you will need to charge each derailler as my understanding is that it is truly wireless.
Dave
@@davescycling Dave, thanks for the detail reply. I have 11 speed so I guess I only need to charge the Shimano E-Tube Junction (SM-EW90-A). Do you have video showing how to update software?
Chan, I do not, but I will try to put one together tonight or tomorrow at least with the basics. No promises but I have been meaning to do it anyway! I will let you know when it is up.
Dave
@@davescycling Dave, I just found out I have SM BTR2 battery which is not available for synchronization. Do you know the work around?
Chan, go to: bettershifting.com/di2-synchronized-shifting-the-complete-guide this will help answer your questions.
Dave
I have this new bike with the rd 8050 derailleur and it seems not to have the sync button to connect to the shimmano e tune app. Any leads?
Thanks for the question! Bikes with 11 speed Di2 do not come with wireless capability. You need to add that option. I had the same experience. You can connect to your computer using the charger cable but no to the App unless the wireless unit has been installed. You can do it yourself as it is not super expensive nor is it very difficult to do. Here is a video: How to Install a Shimano DI2 Wireless Unit in a 2021 Trek Domane SL7 #di2 #trekbike #shimano
ruclips.net/video/V_xfIfLl2JY/видео.html
@@davescycling thank you very much. Well, now my question comes to know the process to adding functions to the buttons on top of my brake levers. That’s why I wanted to sync the derailleur. TIA.
Which mode do you like best for what type of riding. Thanks
Thanks for watching the video and asking a question! I was a “Manual shifting” guy until I recently decided to experiment with the different modes. I am kind of warming up to Full-Synchro because where I ride is nonstop up and down hills and it is nice not to have to think about shifting other than “up or down“. I also love that I can change modes at any time while riding!
Dave
Hi I want to put my di2 in pairing mode but I really don’t know how. I checked on the internet and it says that I have to hold my button for 0,5 to 2 seconds but the lights aren’t flashing and I can’t see it on my E-TUBE app.
Are you sure you have the wireless unit? It was an option until the latest 12 speed Di2. I had to install the wireless module on my new bike.
Dave
why do semi-synchro when you can just keep it on full synchro? looking it at, best to keep on full?
As it turns out, once I started riding in full-synchro mode I decided that it is now my favorite mode! When I first got my bike with the DI2 system, I was very reluctant to change the mode because I liked having full control over my shifting. Then I started experimenting with semi synchro mode. I did like semi-synchro, but as you suggested, after riding for a little while and full-Synchro, I love it! It lets the bike automatically give you the next harder or easiest gear while still allowing you to override it anytime you want. Thanks so much for your comment!
@@davescycling 100% keep on full synchro - I rode this evening and the front chain ring downshifted as I downshifted on a climb that was bumpy. The chain jumped off and got damaged - can happen if chainring downshifts under power on bumpy terrain, just something to be mindful of :)
Yes, there is a small learning curve. The automatic shifting can be abrupt! Sorry to hear there was damage. I hope it wasn’t too bad.
That was one of the things I did not like at first, but once you get accustomed to it, it’s all good.
@@davescycling thanks, chain twisted and some frame scratches so need a new chain :)
@@davescycling I changed a setting now , maybe that will help : the stock setting for when you are shifting to the easier rear sprockets is when you’re second from the top and want to shift to the top (easiest) it then drops the chain to the front ring . I figured this is risky because the chain is already tentioned more inwards . So I edited it now to drop to the small front chainring when i downshift from 3rd easiest to 2nd easiest VS 2nd to 1st if you know what I mean - let me know what u think
Bedankt
Thanks so much!!!
what if you have a gear hub o.O
A gear hub is a different story! I do not know about them, but I am pretty sure they do not have multiple shift modes. Thanks so much for your question!
Dave.
Thanks for the video. You should make another video on how to ruin a great looking bike by adding a frame bag ;-)😆
I love my frame bag!! I know it takes away from the bike, but I like to carry food, a few tools and have a spot to stow extra clothing when needed. Thanks for watching the video and I do appreciate the comment!
Dave
@@davescycling LOL I'm just kidding. To each his own. You got space there to carry a laptop. 🤣 Thanks again for the video
A laptop and a table to put it on, lol!! Enjoy your bike!!
Dave