Not that long ago it was announced that SRAM has acquired the cycling computer company, Hammerhead. With SRAM focusing on more electronic functionality in everything from shifters to suspension, the move made sense to provide a SRAM-owned head unit to the mix. However, a recent announcement by Hammerhead suggests that a certain competitor might have issue with the acquisition.
According to Hammerhead, Shimano has requested that they end support for certain Di2 features on the Karoo 2. Starting next Thursday with the latest software update on June, 2nd, riders will lose the on-screen battery status and shifter mode data, front and rear derailleur indications, and Karoo screen control via the Di2 hood buttons on Shimano Di2 drivetrains.
Hammerhead points out that all other Karoo 2 functionality will continue for Shimano users, but in terms of the Di2 specific features, it looks like that will be on pause until “Hammerhead is able to forge a new agreement.”
It’s not clear if you might be able to just not update your head unit and retain those features, but if you’re a Di2 user it might be worth a shot. Of course, then you’d lose out on the frequent over-the-air product updates that Hammerhead has been pushing out, so it may not be worth it.
