2 Wheels Only

Three things you might not know about Shimano Di2 for e-bikes…

1. It’s compatible with Bosch — Di2 can now integrate with Bosch Smart System-equipped e-bikes.

2. Upgrading might be easier than you think — if you’re already running a compatible Shimano setup, you may be able to retain components such as your existing cassette and chain.

3. 12-speed isn’t your only option — Shimano’s 11-speed LINKGLIDE setup offers a more durability-focused alternative, particularly suited to the higher loads of e-bikes.

Would you make the switch from mechanical?

From 1st November, 2 Wheels Only is coming to Lichfield📍

Di2 is better… but there’s a catch 😬

Upgrading from mechanical shifting isn’t always as simple as swapping your derailleur and shifter.

What you already have on your e-bike matters 🚨

Your drivetrain, cassette, freehub body and existing Shimano components can all affect what’s needed to make the switch.

In some cases, you may be able to keep more of your existing setup than you think.

In others, there’s a little more involved.

Julian explains what you need to consider before making the move to Di2 💭

Still worth the upgrade?

Watch this Black Magic Soloist come to life 🪄

The new Cervélo Soloist looks good straight out of the box, but unbelievable in the sunlight once built 👀

Finished in Black Magic and built here in the workshop, here’s the full build from start to finish.

Full spec👇🏼

• Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170 2x12-speed
• 52/36T Ultegra chainset
• 11-34T Ultegra cassette
• Ultegra R8170 hydraulic disc brakes
• Reserve 42TA carbon wheels
• DT Swiss 350 hubs
• Vittoria Corsa N.EXT TLR 29mm tyres
• Cervélo HB18 carbon cockpit
• Cervélo SP27 carbon seatpost
• Fizik Arione R3 saddle
• Black Magic finish

What would you change, if anything?

2WheelsOnly

Still running mechanical shifting on your e-bike? 🤔

You might be missing out on more than just electronic gear changes.

Shimano Di2 can unlock features that simply aren’t possible with a traditional cable-based drivetrain, changing not only how your bike shifts, but what the drivetrain can actually do.

Julian from Shimano takes us through three of the features you could be missing out on.

And did we mention it’s now compatible with Bosch? 👀

Would they be enough to make you switch from mechanical? ⚡️

Why did Merida choose Bosch for the new Lithos?

It wasn’t simply a case of taking the existing eOne-Sixty and swapping the motor.

The Lithos was developed as a new platform, designed around the Bosch system from the start and taking what Merida had learned from its previous eMTBs.

But there’s another big reason behind that decision: proven reliability.

Merida’s Bosch-powered demo fleet has already clocked some serious four-digit mileage on each bike, reportedly running without fault.

Add Bosch’s established worldwide support network, access to parts and technical backup, and you start to understand why Merida put its trust in the system for its new flagship eMTB.

Then there’s the performance of the latest CX and CX-R systems on top.

Would Bosch be your first choice for an eMTB? 🔋

The all-new Trek Domane Gen 5 has landed📍

Lighter, simpler and more versatile than ever, Trek has made some big changes to its endurance road bike.

IsoSpeed is gone. There’s now clearance for up to 40mm tyres, a new road-smoothing seatpost, a 20mm riser bar and a significantly lighter frame, while keeping the comfort and confidence the Domane has always been known for.

The result? An endurance-focused bike that’s equally at home on long road rides, rough back lanes and light gravel.

Steve gives us a first look at what’s changed and what the new Domane is all about.

What do you think of the new direction?