For 2011 Shimano makes the leap to 10-speed with the introduction of an extra sprocket on its XT and SLX groupsets.
Shimano is calling the technology in the new 3×10 groupsets ‘Dyna-Sys’ and has some impressive technical jargon behind the advantages of a 10-speed drivetrain. So what are the benefits of 10-speed? Shimano cites reduced friction, closer shift ratios and minimised cadence change as being the key points.
The new chainset gets a 24-32-42 arrangement (compared to 22-32-44) and is paired with a new wide range 11-36 cassette (11-34 and 11-32 will also be available) which essentially means you’ll be able to spend more of the time riding in the middle ring.
This will be particularly noticeable on the climbs and avoid the many situations when you have to click up three sprockets on the cassette when switching to the inner chainring to match your cadence. With Dyna-Sys, it’s just one recovery shift and it’s needed less often.
Shimano also adds that’ll you’ll have a better choice of gears when climbing, and decrease chain tension when in the lowest cogs. And there are changes at the shifter too; Shimano has changed the lever to feel lighter and crisper and to deliver more feedback during the gear change, something which Shimano calls ‘Vivid’ shifting.
A new, lighter directional-specific chain features four task-specific plates to ensure slick shifting. Other changes include tighter cable routing and shorter rear derailleur housing.
Here’s the prices. Availability is expected this summer…
XT
Cassette – £59.99srp (11-32, 11-34, 11-36T)
Chain – £34.99srp
Chainset – £189.99srp (24/32/42T – 165, 170, 175, 180mm lengths)
Front Mech – £34.99srp (Top Swing/Down Swing) (Direct Mount and E-Fit – £29.99srp)
Shadow Rear Mech – £64.99srp (GS or SGS)
Rapidfire Shifters – £89.99srp (pair) (£49.99srp for R/hand only)
SLX
Cassette – £49.99srp (11-34, 11-36T)
Chain – £29.99srp
Chainset – £139.99srp (24/32/42T -170, 175mm lengths)
Front Mech – £29.99srp( Top Swing/Down Swing) (Direct Mount and E-Fit – £26.99srp)
Shadow Rear Mech – £49.99srp (SGS only)
Rapidfire Shifters – £59.99srp (pair) (£29.99srp for R/hand only)
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