The revisions of the E-Tube software are markedly improved over the initial versions. There are still some vague aspects to the software, but that is mostly the result of Japanese-English translation. I am able to update all firmware on all three of our Di2 bikes with the i-pad - no problem!
For me, this dongle is invaluable while riding. Using a cycling computer, It shows gear selection in front of you, so you don't have to take eyes off the road to see where you're at transmission wise. And, it shows a very helpful micro-adjustment scale when you put the Di2 into fine-tune mode while riding.
There is other detailed transmission information transmitted by this device to a phone or cycling computer while riding. With the right post-processing software you can know time in each gear combination, number of shifts during the ride.
This tiny device allows me to make sure I don't run out of battery in the middle of a ride. Also allows me to make changes on the Di2 configuration on the spot from my cell phone. Awesome.
Add wireless connectivity to a wired Di2 system, yay. I've used this unit reliably with my Garmin Edge 530 for a few months. Does the job, no issues so far.
Connecting with the E-Tube (what is this odd-ball name for an) app is another story. Takes me 2-3 attempts to connect to my phones bluetooth every single time I want to view the Di2 system to check firmware and make microadjustments.
A necessary evil if you want to bring your (super expensive Di2) bike into the 2020s with wireless connectivity.
Easy to install. I watched a You Tube video over and over until I had the courage to connect it. Works perfectly. I like seeing the battery level % & what gear I'm in on my Garmin.
Due to decreasing capacity, I had to replace my Di2 internal battery which required replacing the D-Fly transmitter for full functionality. Both had been upgraded to allow for Synchro and semi-Synchro shifting with the ability to program by smart phone. Turns out my riding style doesn't really mesh with synchronized shifting. Manual shifting is more intuitive for me and easier to adjust under changing conditions, such as starting a climb or cresting a climb, where uneven changes in grade require different adjustments. Bottom line is I may have not needed the upgraded D-Fly transmitter for the basic functions of the old unit, but I do like the in-line configuration as I have internalized the transmitter in my downtube and it makes for a cleaner wire in, wire out arrangement.
Seeing how much Di2 battery is left on my Garmin is great and very helpful to not run out, but I LOVE the integration with the Di2 shifters, specifically the secret Di2 buttons on the hoods. I set these up to change pages on my Garmin and makes it so much easier to swap through pages while riding without having to remove my hands from the hoods.
Shimano Di2 EW-WU111 In-Line Wireless Transmitter, Configuring the Di2 System, I didn't know all the components in the system; This allows user to transmit Di2 system diagnostics from smartphone! User can place this in the Seat Tube or perhaps in the handle bars; Used with Shimano App, "E-Tube", user can retrieve Di2 component updates and make adjustments through the App. As This is my 1st Di2 experience, it makes biking fun and continue to learn about the features!
I setup my DI2 on my PC, but you can do it on your phone now with this and the new battery. I noticed battery life has gone down a lot so I am now only planning to use this if I have any adjustments to do on the ride. Nice thing is if you have issues with the DI2 on a ride, you can access the system with your phone to make adjustments if needed, or get out of limp home mode. But, its not an essential piece of gear for DI2, in my view, so 4 stars.
I wish every Di2 build came with the D-fly unit. Being able to access your shifting, battery, and firmware updates through Bluetooth seems like table stakes to me. And, being able to scroll through your computer head unit screens, using the buttons under your Shimano Hoods, is another added plus.
Great integration with many Garmin head units that allow you to to change screens from the top of your shifters. This also allows you to wirelessly connect with Shimano�s e-tube to update firmware, configure shifting and do maintenance. You�ll love using this.
Had to use a Windows computer for the software to initialize it. Android and Mac would connect until after setup.
This device enable wireless feature on Di2 system, Di2 is wired FYI. With this device, system can communicate wirelessly for update firmware, customized button at the shifter, Garmin or alike devices. Almost plug n play, well just need to update firmware...you good to go.
It took some work to get everything set up (shoutout to my mechanic The Rover), but once he made the battery upgrade, updating the firmware was a snap.
Honestly, I was considering experimenting with the newer possible settings afforded the Di2 user for more intuitive shifting, but the instructions on the e-Tube project app are so opaque I don't even want to try it. So it's helpful for keeping the firmware up to date, though this doesn't really change my day to day riding experience, so it's a bit of an unnecessary toy!
It worked like a charm. I was initially scared of screwing something up with the install, but I was able to get Shimano on the phone and the guy walked me through it - brilliant!!
Super small and light, works great inside my carbon frame. Not sure on metal frames. You will need the new battery and a short E-TUBE cable, but the wireless app is great as is the ability for the Di2 to talk to my Garmin.
