Shimano’s Sora R3000 groupset brings mechanical discs

Shimano’s Sora R3000 groupset brings mechanical discs

Entry-level road components get a refresh

Shimano

Published: February 29, 2016 at 3:30 pm

Shimano has released its new Sora road groupset, featuring mechanical disc brakes and E-THRU road wheels, for winter and urban commuting bikes

Forming the first part of its new 2017 road bike products, the new Sora (R3000) groupset remains nine-speed, but visually takes plenty of cues from its more expensive siblings.

There's a four-arm crankset, which takes on the two-tone black-grey gloss finish that first appeared on the top-level Dura-Ace, and which also now features on the Ultegra and 105 groups.

Gearing and cranksets

Shimano's new sora crankset has a 4-arm design and two-tone finish that looks very similar to the upper-tier groupsets like 105 and ultegra: shimano's new sora crankset has a 4-arm design and two-tone finish that looks very similar to the upper-tier groupsets like 105 and ultegra

The cranksets are available in double (50-34t) or triple (50-39-30t) configurations, and can be combined with a large-range 11-34t cassette to spin easily up the hills, thanks to the inclusion of two extra teeth on the cassette over the previous Sora.

Shifters and disc brakes

Shimano's new sora mechanical disc brake caliper: shimano's new sora mechanical disc brake caliper

The integrated shifters/brake levers for drop handlebars get internal cable routing, and drive new flat-mount mechanical disc brake calipers that can be mated to steel or stainless steel disc rotors. Shimano also offers dual-pivot rim brakes in the new two-tone finish, if your bike lacks disc brake mounts.

Alternatively, for urban flat bar bikes, there are five-arm double (50-34t) and triple (50-39-30t) cranksets, Rapidfire Plus gear shifters and brake levers with Optislick cables.

Thru-axles

Shimano's new sora r3000 groupset: shimano's new sora r3000 groupset

Described as being – surprise – Shimano’s “most attractive and robust nine-speed groupset yet”, the Shimano RX31 12mm wheelset and AX720 hubs include E-THRU technology to create a stronger wheel locking system.

Products are expected to be available from April, and we are currently chasing up prices. More to follow…