Hot on the heels of the new wireless XTR groupset, Shimano Q’AUTO is a battery-free, automatic shifting system for commuters and gravel bikes. Get to know it here…

Previously only available for high-end e-bikes, the new Shimano Q’AUTO system is a totally unique new drivetrain option that brings automatic shifting to mechanical bicycles. Our first thought was, “Automatic shifting? There must be a battery that needs charging.” Not this time! Shimano Q’AUTO uses a totally battery-free design thanks to the new Shimano Cues FH-U6060, a dynamo-equipped power-generating freehub. Like a standard dynamo hub, the Q’AUTO rear hub generates power with each rotation. Inside the freehub, there are three sensors to track speed, cadence, and slope, allowing the system to collect power while riding and storing the electricity needed for performing shifts.

Shimano Q’AUTO
  • Shimano Q’AUTO
  • Shimano Q’AUTO

As part of the launch, Shimano has also introduced the Shimano Cues RD-U8050-SGS/GS rear derailleur and the SW-EN605-R wireless shift switch. The rear derailleur is compatible with Shimano’s entire range of wireless Di2 switches and shifters in both flat and drop bar. One perk is that Q’AUTO allows riders to experience wireless Di2 shifting without the need for batteries or a full Di2 drivetrain.

Using the Di2 shift switch, riders can provide immediate feedback to the system by shifting into a preferred gear. Q’AUTO remembers these adjustments and uses them for similar situations. According to Shimano, there are over 6,500 possible algorithmic patterns to choose from, allowing the shifting and riding style to be completely customized to each user.

FH-U6060: Automatic Shifting Dynamo FREEHUB

  • Battery-Free Convenience: The dynamo function generates its own power, eliminating the need for battery replacements or charging.
  • Speed, cadence, and slope sensors that support smooth and precise automatic shifting.
  • Personalized Shifting: The adaptive learning function remembers the rider’s shifting patterns and offers optimized shifting tailored to individual riding styles.
  • Compatible with LINKGLIDE 1×10 or 1×11 Cassettes
  • Li-ion capacitor that can store power for over a year.
  • 142x12mm E-Thru.
  • 28, 32, and 36-hole compatible.
  • Shimano Q’AUTO
  • Shimano Q’AUTO

RD-U8050-SGS/GS: LINKGLIDE Wireless communication Di2 Rear Derailleur

  • Q’AUTO compatible.
  • LED indicator.
  • Function button that toggles between 3 preset modes.
  • Compatible with LINKGLIDE cassettes.
  • 11-speed 11-50T, 11-45T, and 10-speed 11-48T (RD-U8050-SGS).
  • 10-speed 11-43T (RD-U8050-GS).
  • Shimano Q’AUTO
  • Shimano Q’AUTO

SW-EN605-R: Wireless communication shifting switch

  • Three-button shifting switch with intuitive operation.
  • LED indicator provides means to check battery life.
  • Two CR1632 coin cell batteries are required.
  • Customizable via E-TUBE PROJECT Cyclist app (Version 5.2 or newer).
  • 22.2 clamp band.

Shimano hasn’t released any details on pricing or whether Q’AUTO will be available as an aftermarket upgrade, but it’s available on the Rose Sneak 3 EQ commuter bike with prices starting at €2,399 for a complete build. Check that out here.

For more information on Shimano Q’AUTO, visit Shimano.com.

Further Reading

Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...

FILED IN (CATEGORIES & TAGS)

Dispatch

New Components

Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed.