Shimano’s latest XTR iteration remains the Japanese brand’s flagship mountain bike system and features increased durability and super fast wireless shift performance.
Shimano launch their newest MTB drivetrain in the form of the wireless shifting XTR Di2 system. There’s plenty more than just wireless shifting as no stone has gone unturned with the top tier groupset.
One of the most visible elements of a groupset is the rear mech and its the reliability of this part, and its ability to shrug off impacts that can define the legacy of a drive train. In order to see off unwanted strikes, the new XTR Di2 mech features Shadow ES technology which makes the leading edge of the mech body into a wedge to offer the smallest contact area.
An automatic impact recovery function also allows the mech to absorb the strike before resetting. A wide, braced link and solid jockey wheels aim to see of any unwanted forces acting on the mech as well as a dual spring for higher chain tension. A sealed battery is retained within the body of the mech to ensure it’s free from impacts. A wired ebike version is also available that will operate Auto and Free Shift.
In conjunction with the mech is either a 9-45t or 10-51t Hyperglide+ cassette that has been tuned for low weight and durability whilst also better shifting under load. Two cranksets are also available. An XC crank and a trail/enduro number. The main difference being Q-factor and crank length, with a 160mm option available.
Brake levers have been redesigned to follow the path of the rider’s finger with the pivot closer to the bar. A lever upsweep also promotes an aggressive riding position. The new switch can be placed in more locations on the barwith customisable functions.
Three brakes will be available. A light weight, XC 2-piston offering focusing on low weight, a 4-pot for trail and enduro riding, plus one in the middle. The third option (we think) is a combination of the BR-MT805 flat mount caliper and the XTR XC lever.
With this going head-to-head with the likes of the SRAM XX Transmission, the new Shimano XTR is a very competitive in price as well. Remembering that these are both top tier groupsets, you’re still looking down the barrel of two thousand pounds for a SRAM XX drive complete with mech, cassette, shifter, cranks and chain.
The new XTR Di2 saves you around the £600 mark compared to the SRAM XX retail price. The XTR Di2 SGS rear mech is £549.99, a 10-51t cassette is £399.99, the cranks at £249.99, shifter at £184.99, chainring at £129.99, chain at £59.99 and battery at £29.99. This totals £1,604.93 at retail price, saving you £590.07. The SRAM XX Transmission at retail is £2,195.00.
