Last year Shimano introduced hydraulic disc brakes for on road usage. The hydraulic brake mechanism was integrated in the Di2 lever (ST-R785). This lever was remarkable compact. Everyone said this was because of the integration with Di2. But today Shimano launches an ever more compact hydraulic disc brake lever for mechanical shifting, the ST-RS685. A new milestone in the development of road hydraulic disc brakes. This new hydraulic disc brake is compatible to Shimano’s mechanical Dura-Ace and Ultegra 11 speed groupsets and works also with their new 105 groupset that was launched today as well.

Shimano’s engineers were able to include a mineral oil reservoir and brake system all in the compact and ergonomic mechanical lever. Hydraulic disc brakes maintain high consistent braking performance regardless the weather conditions through innovative heat management and brake power that can be tuned to riding conditions, terrain, riders’ size and abilities. In short, more stopping power with less effort. The lever features a 10mm reach adjustment to customize the control for people with smaller or larger hands.

The brake caliper that Shimano introduced last year (BR-R785) has been updated and replaced by a new brake caliper (BR-RS785). This brake caliper has improved cable routing. Instead from the lever to the outside of the caliper, the cable runs now to the inside of the caliper (straight type).

Shimano equipped its hydraulic disc brakes with Ice technology. A cooling technology for consistent performance. The clad rotor blade, which has a 3 layer-sandwich structure of stainless steel and aluminum, provides a better radiation performance that reduces the temperature approximately 100 degrees. There are two FREEZA SM-RT99 rotor size options for customizable braking performance. 140mm as a standard and 160mm as an option for people who require more brake power.