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Dual Control levers The 105 levers are a
similar shape to the latest Dura-Ace and Ultegra units – with which they
are compatible, along with the rest of the new 105 kit – but with
aluminium instead of carbon lever blades. Features include
under-bar-tape cable routing, adjustment for different hand sizes and
bar bends, and a brake lever pivot that's closer to the rider than
before for improved control when on the hoods. 
Cranksets The
Hollowtech II chainset is available in double (52-39T or 53-39T),
compact (50-34T) and triple (50-39-30T) versions, with a choice of 165,
170, 172.5 or 175mm crankarms. It lacks the Hollowglide outer ring found
on Shimano's more expensive road groups. 
Derailleurs The
new wide link design rear mech will again look familiar to anyone used
to Dura-Ace and Ultegra and is available in SS (short cage) and GS
(medium cage, for triple cranksets) versions. The front mech is also
available in two versions and now features a wide inner link for extra
rigidity and an improved chain guide design. Shimano say the aim was to
provide a featherlight downshift. 
Brakes The
Dual-Pivot brakes come with improved pads that are said to offer better
performance in the wet. Other features include a spring tension
adjuster, brake shoes with adjustable toe-in and a redesigned arch
that's designed to provide more linear braking. 
Chain and cassette The
new 105 chain has a directional design – the right side is apparently
optimised for front shifting and the left side for rear, so make sure
you fit it with the logos facing outwards. Cassettes, which feature a
new lightweight aluminium sprocket carrier, are available in 11-28T,
11-25T, 12-25T and 12-27T configurations. 
Other components The
groupset also includes pedals, which are available in the two new
colours but are otherwise unchanged from the previous 105, and hubs with
improved labyrinth seals. We'll bring you more on the new 105 as soon
as we can, including pricing details and full reviews. 
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