New Dura-Ace: no battery? no problem

New groupset could use the piezoelectric effect

- James Shrubsall

Despite all the rumors and speculation, and even an unconfirmed Instagram video leaked by Remco Evenepoel, Shimano remains tight-lipped about its new Dura-Ace groupset.

However, US patents filed by the company seem to confirm that the new groupset will not only be 12-speed and wireless but could do away with shifter batteries in favor of a piezoelectric element, similar to those found in cigarette lighters.

The patent application reads: “The electric-energy generation element generates the electric energy using pressure and/or vibration… caused by a movement of at least one of the brake operating member, the additional operating member, and the button element. Examples of [this] electric energy generation element include a piezoelectric element.”

The piezoelectric effect works by applying mechanical force to certain materials, such as crystals and ceramics. The crystal produces an electrical charge, which in this case could send a signal to the derailleurs.

An alternative version of the shifter in the patent, filed on July 22, describes the use of a more traditional coin-cell battery.