What “105” really tells you

Before buying a bike with Shimano 105, know this: “105” points to a performance-focused road drivetrain family, but the exact ride feel depends on which 105 version is on the bike—mechanical vs Di2, and which lever/brake setup it uses.

On the electronic side, the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System is built around Di2 shifting in a compact package, with reach adjust to fine-tune lever distance and hood shaping that adds hand support. It also includes custom button functions you can change in Shimano’s E-TUBE app—handy if you like your controls set up your way.

On the mechanical/hydraulic side, 105 levers like the ST-R7020 and ST-R7025 focus on lever ergonomics and reach adjustment (the ST-R7020 notes up to 15mm), plus hydraulic disc braking. And newer lever designs like the 105 R7120 emphasize revised lever position and bracket shape developed using data from a wide range of hand shapes—translation: it’s trying to fit more hands comfortably, not just one “standard” grip.

So when you see “105” on a complete bike like the Bianchi Sprint 105 Road Bike, your smartest move is to confirm which 105 it’s running and whether that matches your priorities: electronic convenience and customization, or mechanical simplicity with refined lever feel.

Where Shimano 105 earns its keep on the road

Shimano 105 is popular for a reason: it’s built to feel precise where it matters—at the levers—while keeping the whole setup practical for day-in, day-out riding.

Control at the contact points

On hydraulic 105 setups, the lever bodies and internals are shaped to support better hand placement and braking control. The Shimano 105 ST-R7020 Hydraulic Shift/Brake Lever calls out a slimmer hydraulic package for a more ergonomic shape, plus reach adjustment (up to 15mm) so you can get a confident grip from the hoods or the drops. The ST-R7025 version specifically highlights improved ergonomics and a shorter lever throw—small details that can make long rides feel less like a hand workout.

Braking you can trust when the pace rises

Multiple 105 options here pair shifting with hydraulic disc braking—a big deal for consistent control when conditions change. The Shimano 105 R7120 lever design also leans into “all-condition confidence,” which is exactly what you want when a fast group ride turns into a surprise weather report.

Shifting: choose your flavor

• Di2 convenience: The ST-R7170 Di2 system brings stress-free electronic shifts and lets you assign custom button functions via the E-TUBE app.
• Mechanical simplicity: Components like the Shimano 105 RD-R7000 Rear Derailleur are designed for smooth, worry-free 11-speed shifting—solid performance without overthinking it.

How to pick the right 105-equipped bike (fast)

When a listing says “Shimano 105,” use these checkpoints to make sure you’re buying the experience you actually want.

1) Decide: electronic Di2 or mechanical

• Want push-button shifting and customization? Look for a build using the Shimano 105 ST-R7170 Di2 Shift/Brake System. It’s compact, has reach adjust, and supports custom button functions through Shimano’s E-TUBE app.
• Prefer a straightforward setup? Mechanical 105 options like the ST-R7020 and ST-R7025 focus on lever ergonomics and braking feel while keeping the system traditional.

2) Confirm the lever shape + reach range

Hands come in a lot of shapes—so lever fit matters. The 105 R7120 points to a revised lever position and bracket shape based on a broad study of different hand shapes. The ST-R7020 also includes reach adjustment (up to 15mm), which is clutch if you want the lever to come to you, not the other way around.

3) Match the bike’s frame intent to your riding

A 105 spec can show up on very different bikes. The Bianchi Sprint 105 Road Bike, for example, is aimed at riders stepping into faster training groups or racing, with a carbon monocoque frame and a carbon aero fork designed to take the edge off vibrations at speed. If that’s your lane, great—if not, make sure the rest of the bike (not just the drivetrain) matches your goals.

4) Check the rear derailleur spec if you’re upgrading

If you’re piecing together or refreshing a drivetrain, the Shimano 105 RD-R7000 is an 11-speed rear derailleur option positioned as budget-friendly with smooth shifting—useful context when you’re comparing upgrade paths.

Why buy your 105 setup from Backcountry

Shimano 105 is one of those specs that looks simple until you realize it can mean Di2 buttons and app customization, or mechanical levers with different shapes, throws, and reach ranges. That’s where Backcountry shines: we help you sort the details that actually change how the bike feels on the road.

If you’re comparing a complete ride like the Bianchi Sprint 105 Road Bike against a parts-based upgrade—say, 105 hydraulic levers or a rear derailleur—we’ll help you line up the right version for your hands, your terrain, and your pace. No gatekeeping, no jargon parade—just the good stuff that gets you confidently out the door.

And if you want a second set of eyes on a build list or you’re trying to decode which 105 generation a listing is using, tap a Gearhead® Expert. It’s like having a riding buddy who reads spec sheets for fun—so you can focus on the ride.