What matters most with Shimano 105
Before buying Shimano 105 components, focus on how the controls feel in your hands, how much setup flexibility you want, and whether electronic shifting fits your riding style. Many riders consider Shimano 105 when they want a more refined on-bike feel, and the control system can play a big role in how the bike feels on the road.
One strong example is the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System, which brings Di2 shifting in a small, compact size. That matters if you want stress-free shifting without a bulky feel at the bars. It also includes reach adjust, so the distance between the handlebar and lever can be customized to fit your hands and preferences more closely.
Another thing worth knowing: comfort and control are tied together. A raised hood peak and hood body are designed to increase hand support. Add in dual control lever operation and customizable button functions through the E-TUBE app, and you’re looking at a setup that gives you straightforward use and room to personalize the controls.
Why these features matter on the road
A Shimano 105-equipped setup is not just about having a recognizable name on the parts list. The real value shows up in the controls. With the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System, the headline feature is stress-free Di2 shifting. That means less fuss at the lever and more focus on the ride ahead.
- Compact lever size: A smaller shape keeps the controls compact.
- Reach adjust: Reach adjust lets you customize the distance between the handlebar and lever.
- Raised hood peak and hood body: The raised hood peak and hood body increase hand support.
- Dual control lever operation: The dual control lever makes for easy operation.
- E-TUBE app customization: Button functions can be changed to better match your preferences.
Put together, those details point to a setup that feels easier to live with day after day. Less fuss at the controls, more support where your hands spend time, and room to tune button functions to your liking—that’s the kind of difference you notice every ride.
How to choose the right Shimano 105 setup
When you’re shopping for a bike with Shimano 105, start with fit at the controls. If the lever shape feels too big or the reach feels off, the bike can feel awkward no matter how good the rest of the build looks. A system with a compact body and reach adjust gives you more room to dial in comfort from the start.
Next, think about how much personalization you actually want. Some riders want a setup that works cleanly right away and stays simple. Others like being able to tweak controls to match their habits. With customizable button functions through the E-TUBE app, the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System leans toward riders who appreciate a little extra control over the interface.
- Check lever feel: Make sure the shape and size work for your hands.
- Look for adjustability: Reach adjust can make a big difference in comfort.
- Consider support on the hoods: More hand support matters on longer days.
- Think about operation: Dual control levers should feel natural, not distracting.
- Decide if app-based customization matters: Useful if you like a more tailored setup.
If you want a second opinion before clicking buy, a Gearhead® Expert can help you sort through fit, controls, and setup details without turning it into a mechanical science project.
Why shop Shimano 105 at Backcountry
Buying a bike with Shimano 105 is really about buying a ride feel you’ll want to come back to. At Backcountry, we keep the focus where it belongs: on the gear, the details, and how those details play out once the wheels are rolling. That means less fluff, more useful insight.
If you’re weighing control shape, hand support, or whether Di2 features fit your riding style, a Gearhead® Expert can help you cut through the noise. Real riders, real product knowledge, no gatekeeping. Just solid guidance on what makes sense for your setup.
From compact lever ergonomics to customizable button functions, the small details can change how a bike feels over every mile. We’re here for that level of nerdiness—in the best way. Because when your controls feel right, the whole ride clicks.
Why Buy Shimano 105 from Backcountry?
If you’re dialing in a setup like the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System, Summit Club+ ($49/yr) adds value on every order with 10% instant cash back on full-price and sale items. Cash back posts immediately after purchase, and one order over $490 covers the membership fee entirely.
- Instant cash back — posts right after purchase, not once a year
- Earn on sale and clearance items — unlike most retailers, rewards are not limited to full-price gear
- Redeem on anything — use your cash back on full-price and sale items alike, with no restrictions
- Free 2-day shipping on orders $150+
- Your own dedicated Gearhead Expert — get personal gear advice by chat, phone, or text when you need help sorting through fit, controls, or setup
- 20% off birthday discount plus early access to deals and new gear drops
- Partner Perks — $100 off Mountain Collective passes, $140 off Outdoorsy, free USA Cycling membership
- 365-day satisfaction guarantee — full refund on membership within a year, minus any cash back redeemed
