What is shimano sti shifter?

Shimano STI (Shimano Total Integration) shifters are a type of bicycle component that integrates the shifting mechanism with the brake levers, allowing riders to change gears without having to move their hands to a separate shifter. They were introduced by Shimano in the early 1990s and have since become the industry standard for road bikes.

STI shifters use a system of cables and springs to change the position of the derailleur, which moves the chain to a different gear. The shifting mechanism is built into the brake lever, with one lever controlling upshifts and the other controlling downshifts.

Shimano STI shifters are available in a variety of groupsets ranging from entry-level to professional racing level, with the higher-end models featuring more advanced features such as electronic shifting and customizable shifting modes. They are compatible with Shimano’s range of derailleurs, which are designed to work together to provide smoother and more precise shifting.

STI shifters have become popular among road cyclists due to their ease of use and ability to quickly change gears while maintaining control of the bike. They are also highly durable and require minimal maintenance, making them a reliable component for daily use.