Originally Posted by
pdlpsher
There's no dispute Di2 is better
On the Santana there's also a $750 upcharge for internal Di2 wiring. I didn't go for that option as I do see wireless shifting as the inevitable. Since I don't have internal routing (I think it's not just holes on the frame....the eccentrics are different too), my only options are to do external wiring with Di2 or go with the new Sram eTap. Between Di2 and eTap I like the Di2 better, as I can execute a front shift in conjunction with a rear shift. I do that on my single bike all the time and I'm quite good at it. I don't think I can tolerate the delay of shifting the front and the rear in sequence on the eTap. Plus the eTap lacks the front derailleur auto-trim, which is a Shimano patented feature.
But if I go with Di2 I have no choice but leave the wires hanging on the frame. So I'm left with several options and I'm not quite sure what route to take. Waiting for wireless Di2 might be several years away. For those of you with Di2 I'd like to know how you get the wires over the two bottom brackets. I'd really prefer a wireless system as it'll be a very clean installation. So maybe I need to consider the eTap as well.
I'm surprised at Santana's $750 upcharge. Calfee only charges $300 but carbon fiber is easier to modify than titanium.
I don't think that wireless Di2 is inevitable. Shimano will stay with wired Di2 because it has a large installed base with inter-changeable 11sp components (Ultegra & Dura Ace). My non-scientific estimate is that Shimano has about 80% of the electronic shifting market. Just look at how many new bikes are equipped with Di2 vs eTap. Why would Shimano copy Sram when its current design is so successful? Also, Di2 has longer battery life, lower price, and other unique features (eg. synchronized shifting, display).
With synchronized shifting, there's no need to coordinate front & rear shifting. Attached is a comparison of Di2 & eTap prices (retail or street price). Your best bet may to ask a local framebuilder to modify your frame for internal Di2 routing. External cable routing is a bad idea.