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Shimano Tiagra 10sp updated w/ slim ergonomic R4720 disc brakes, lower gearing

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes
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Shimano’s 4th-tier Tiagra groupset doesn’t often get accolades for innovation, but continually evolves with solid trickle-down tech. Now, still 10-speed Tiagra gets a significant hydraulic disc brake overhaul thanks to a slimmer set of Dual Control levers and lower (dare I say gravel-ready) gearing that more aligns with how many of us actually ride road these days.

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

While lacking in glamour, Tiagra offers much of the same shift performance as 105 at much lower price. And when bikemakers are looking to offer bikes that are actually affordable, Tiagra is often the entry-level pricepoint on otherwise high-end bikes. Part of that is because even though Tiagra doesn’t step up to 11 speeds, it offers looks (& performance) on par with 105 or even Ultegra in some instances.

Now a new set of slim Dual Control levers that are a direct evolution from Dura-Ace to Ultegra to 105, and now to Tiagra offer both better fit in riders’ hands and much improved aesthetics. Tiagra R4700 got an option for hydraulic disc brakes a few years back with a non-series 10sp set of RS405 levers, that used the much maligned, bulbous 105 hydro levers. While the ergonomics weren’t quite as bad as they looked, few riders were happy with the look of the giant levers. Now the point is moot as the new R4720 hydraulic disc brake, 10sp mechanical shift levers are almost indistinguishable from 105.

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

With the new levers also comes a second short reach version for small hands (R4725) that could also be well suited for more off-tarmac riding as they also include a bit more outward slant.

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

Tiagra also now adds its own series-branded flat mount brake calipers for a complete unified road disc brake groupset look. Inside the mechanics of the Dual Control levers are identical to 105 (yet with 10 speed indexing) promising a boost in shift performance for Tiagra, and the same excellent brake power & modulation as more expensive Shimano road disc groupsets.

Tiagra R4700 sub-compact gearing

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

Beyond new levers & brakes, Tiagra now adds a third 48/34T chainset option to the road compact (50/34) & semi-compact (52/36) options. While not easier on the lower end, the smaller combo should deliver more usable gearing for rougher or steeper riding, while also cutting down the number of front shifts in regular riding.

Tiagra-level disc brake hubs

Shimano Tiagra 10-speed ergonomic R4720 disc brakes

In addition to standard groupset components, Tiagra now also gets its own level centerlock, 12mm thru-axle disc brake hubset. The e-thru Tiagra hubs use 12mm x 100/142mm spacing and are available in 28 or 32 hole drilling.

Tiagra continues to offer a good starting point for riders new to road riding and specifically road disc, and will continue to see broad OEM spec on affordable drop bar bikes. All of the new components will be available at retail in June 2019, complimenting the existing Tiagra 2×10 groupsets.

bike.Shimano.com

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Jay
Jay
5 years ago

Tiagra always performs well, it’s just a shame Shimano insist on retaining that hideous grey colour for the group!

TimE
TimE
5 years ago

10 and 11 speed options,……….LOL about 5 years too late it seems

Cheese
Cheese
5 years ago
Reply to  TimE

Yeah, LOL, what kind of press poors still ride 11 speed?

John
John
5 years ago

48/34T is *not* a subcompact.

Velo Kitty
Velo Kitty
5 years ago
Reply to  John

Agreed. It’s not sub-compact.

Bryin
Bryin
5 years ago

Why would anyone want a 48/34? A 48/32 yes. A 50/34 sure. It took Shimano a LONG time to capitulate to compact rings. Why can’t the very smart people at Shimano get that riders want more gearing options? Everything from Ultegra down should come with options from 46/30-55/42, it is not like this is a big deal.

conrad
conrad
5 years ago
Reply to  Bryin

It makes sense to me. It lets riders stay in the big ring longer. I often find myself getting close to cross chaining at the speeds / cadence I like to ride, I’m either in the small ring and a hard gear at the back, or the big ring and have to shift down to an easy gear. By bringing the two front gears closer together this would be less of a problem, and all you pay for it is what? Downhill top speed? Who cares?

Peter Robbins
Peter Robbins
5 years ago

Does anyone know of any gravel bikes that will have Tiagra R4700 stock builds?

Anom poster
5 years ago
Reply to  Peter Robbins

For gravel with Tiagra and carbon frame I would try Giant Revolt Advanced 3, Ribble CGR SL, GT Grade Carbon Elite, Specialized Men’s Diverge, Specialized Men’s Diverge Sport 2, Devinchi Hatchet Carbon.

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