Cyberattacks can also affect some high-end bikes

The electronic transmission of certain models of two-wheelers can apparently be hacked, which is not without consequences for professional cyclists in particular.

Should you install an antivirus on your bike? This is the question that we can ask ourselves, mid-September, after the discovery of several computer vulnerabilities on certain models. You know the saying? As soon as there is computing somewhere, there is a risk of hacking. However, it turns out that some high-end bikes use an electronic transmission that can be hacked. This is the case with the model Di2 from the Shimano brand, particularly for wireless gear changes.

A very practical accessory on racing bikes. It allows you to change gears simply by pressing a button. And to keep your hands in any position on the handlebars. However, researchers at the University of California in San Diego have shown that it is relatively easy to tinker with this type of derailleur remotely. In short, a smart guy could launch a cyberattack: blocking the bike in a gear or forcing it to shift into the wrong gear. Obviously, this is worrying. In a highly competitive race like the Tour de France, some people could try to sabotage their competitors’ bikes.

Fortunately, this flaw has not yet been exploited. The researchers immediately contacted the manufacturer. The various flaws were corrected. An update was immediately sent to professional cycling teams. Now, all users of this type of equipment are invited to update their bike, just like they update their phone or computer. The researchers focused on Shimano derailleurs, the market leader. But others could also be affected. For example, Sram, the specialist in wireless transmissions for mountain bikes, comes to mind. There too, there could be an update.

While it may seem worrying to find yourself at the mercy of electronics, we should also not forget that we could just as easily find ourselves at the mercy of a mechanical defect. But the difference in this case is that there will be a recall and it will cost the manufacturer a lot of money. So they have to be careful to keep this exceptional, whereas not a week goes by without us being asked to do a security update.