Shimano Ultegra RX clutch derailleur cobble-tested

Ben and Josh test chain-quieting tech in Belgium and France

Published: May 17, 2018 at 11:15 am

Shimano's road clutch rear derailleur, the Ultegra RX, first surfaced before the Tour of Flanders in April. Although Shimano wasn't yet ready to send out samples, I asked Trek-Segafredo to borrow one of the team's units.

After a quick hotel-room install, my colleague Josh Evans and I took a clutch-equipped Trek Madone and a standard Trek Madone out for a few days of riding.

Watch our short video for impressions on how the technology works on cobbles, rough roads and smooth roads.

Shimano Ultegra RX clutch derailleur first ride