New TIAGRA R4000: a lighter Shimano 2x11 mechanical system, with an 11-36T cassette and newly redesigned levers

Shimano renews its entry-level road group with the launch of the TIAGRA R4000, a 2x11 mechanical transmission that aims to offer reliable performance and a wider range of gears without skyrocketing the price. The new series focuses on improved ergonomics in the levers, a greater range thanks to the 11-36T cassette, and a significant weight reduction in the set.

Shimano updates its most accessible group with a lighter 11-36T

The Shimano TIAGRA R4000 positions itself as one of the best options for traditional road bikes, maintaining compatibility with current standards and reinforcing its focus on real usability, both for beginner cyclists and those looking for a balanced and reliable setup.

Redesigned levers: more accessible ergonomics

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The heart of the system lies in the new ST-R4020 levers, featuring a lever design optimized to facilitate reach from different positions and better adapt to various hand sizes. Shimano takes inspiration from the ergonomics developed in the 105 series, transferring that concept to this more accessible tier.

The levers integrate hydraulic disc brakes and the 11-speed mechanical shifting, offering consistent feel and precise shifts. The brand emphasizes that the new shape of the support and the position of the lever have been developed based on studies of different hand morphologies.

New 11-36T cassette: more range and less weight

One of the main innovations is the incorporation of the CS-RS400-11 cassette in the 11-36T version, which offers a total range of 327%. This allows for sufficient gearing to ride fast on flat terrain and tackle demanding climbs without sacrificing large road chainrings.

Shimano claims that this new configuration is over 200 grams lighter than comparable reference configurations. This clearly indicates the intention to expand range without penalizing the weight of the set.

The cassette is compatible with HYPERGLIDE (HG) Spline M and HG Spline L hubs, using a 1.85 mm spacer in certain cases (11/12v).

2x11 road-specific transmission

The group maintains the classic 2x11 architecture, with the following main components:

Rear derailleur RD-R4000

Designed specifically for 2x11 configurations, it features a compact and lightweight design, with smooth and precise operation focused on the road.

Front derailleur FD-R4000

Incorporates a “toggle link” construction and an optimized cage to provide a lighter and more progressive front shift.

Crankset FC-R4000

Available in two combinations of 52-36T and 50-34T, with crank lengths of 165, 170, 172.5, and 175 mm.
The design maintains the aesthetic and structural DNA of Shimano's higher-end ranges, with a PCD of 110 mm and a chainline of 43.5 mm.

Chain CN-HG601-11

Directional HG-X11 chain with SIL-TEC treatment on the inner plates to improve durability and smooth operation.

To ensure optimal performance, Shimano specifies a series of recommended parameters regarding compatibility and frame requirements:

• Rear spacing (O.L.D.): 135–142 mm
• Minimum chainstay length: 410 mm
• Chainline: 43.5 mm
• PCD: 110 mm
• Compatibility with Shimano 11-speed chain (CN-HG601-11 and CN-LG500)
• Compatibility of front derailleur and space equivalent to FD-R7000 type standards
• HG hub (11/12v)

With this presentation, the TIAGRA R4000 sits between the Shimano 105 R7000 and the Shimano CUES U6030 within the brand's catalog. Compared to the 105, it maintains a more accessible and mechanical focus, while regarding CUES, it opts for a more classic 2x11 road-specific configuration.

In parallel, Shimano confirms that the TIAGRA 4700 series (2x10) will be gradually phased out starting in early 2027, depending on the market and available stock.

More information on prices and availability can be found on the official Shimano website.