SHIMANO XTR Di2 Test Camp in Finale Ligure

SHIMANO XTR Di2 Test Camp in Finale Ligure delivers exclusive hands-on experience and valuable knowledge advantages

In November, Paul Lange GmbH & Co. KG invited its specialist retail partners to an intensive and practice-oriented SHIMANO New Products Test Camp in Finale Ligure. Around 180 specialist retailers seized the opportunity to experience the latest SHIMANO mountain bike components through a balanced combination of in-depth theory sessions, comprehensive on-trail testing and direct exchange with product experts. The goal of the two one-week camps was to give retailers a genuine competitive advantage for the upcoming season — through deep product knowledge, real-world test experiences and strengthened industry networking.

The focus was on extensive test rides of the new SHIMANO XTR M9200 Di2 and DEORE XT M8200 Di2 components, complemented by training sessions on SHIMANO XTR, DEORE XT, DEORE and the innovative SHIMANO Q’AUTO automatic shifting system. Participants also received valuable insights into the SHIMANO Service Portal and SHIMANO E-BIKE Systems, which are playing an increasingly important role in daily workshop operations, service work and customer consulting. A hands-on workshop, during which participants worked directly on the components themselves, deepened the theoretical knowledge and ensured it could be directly applied to both sales and workshop practice.

The camp also provided the ideal stage for the presentation of the brand-new Lazer Impala MTB helmet with DualCore technology. As part of an exclusive launch promotion, each participant received a helmet to test on the demanding trails. After the camp, retailers were allowed to take the helmet home so the real-world experience could be incorporated into their customer consultations.

The practical part of the camp took place in the afternoons on the legendary trails surrounding Finale Ligure. Considered one of the best test locations in Europe, the region offered ideal conditions to evaluate the new components under real and sometimes challenging circumstances. A fleet of 110 fully equipped mountain bikes and e-Mountain bikes from renowned brands — including Rotwild, Cilo, Orbea, Merida, Arc8, Scott, KTM, Canyon and Cannondale — was available to participants. Guided by local riding experts and accompanied by the Paul Lange team as well as former professional mountain biker and Cilo brand ambassador Maxi Dickerhoff, retailers completed extensive test rides with maximum elevation drops. From technical rock sections to flowing descents overlooking the coastline, the diverse terrain enabled participants to gain a realistic sense of the performance, reliability and application range of the new SHIMANO components.

Evenings were dedicated to community building and exchanging expertise. Over Italian cuisine, participants shared impressions, held in-depth discussions and vividly recounted trail stories. Accommodation at an exclusive seaside hotel in Pietra Ligure provided an inspiring setting for personal networking and strengthening relationships within the industry.

Feedback from participants was consistently positive. They particularly valued the unique combination of comprehensive knowledge transfer, intensive practical product testing and direct personal exchange in an inspiring environment. The Test Camp not only introduced them to the latest innovations but also enabled them to develop a deep understanding of the underlying technologies — delivering a clear and tangible benefit for the upcoming season.