Shimano has carried down the redesigned front derailluer of the Dura-Ace R9100 and Ultegra R8000 drivetrains to the existing 5800 series 105 system. Though Shimano will be offer the new design in the new R7000 105 group, it was decided that enough cyclists and bike companies working with 11-speed 105 drivetrains would be able to take advantage of the design early. The two biggest changes revolve around the set-up position- which creates more space for the tire on wider frame designs, and improved cage width and design for wider rear spacing found on disc road and all-around bikes, with improved chainline access and proper distance within the cage for all of Shimano's 2nd generation 11-speed cranksets. The action is smooth, quick and efficient without the long cable pull arm found on the standard 5800 front derailleurs.

The new set-up requires a different installation procedure, and if you are simply upgrading, make sure you have a new derailleur cable on-hand. Shimano replaced the JIS limit adjustment screws with Hex head bolts, which offer a more secure feel with less risk of stripping or slipping. Once you get used to how it sets up and adjusts, you'll love it. If you are using 5800 or 6800 series shifters, the new model works even better than expected, but if you have R8000, R8020 or the R7000 series you'll feel a little more refinement, which is a combination of the derailleur improvements and changes at the lever as well. For those who have run an R8000 crankset with the 5800 and 6800 front derailleurs, you know it just never feels perfect. That is because for R9100, R8000, RS510 and the coming R7000 cranksets the chainring spacing is slightly wider.