Entry-level groupset gets Shadow rear mech and new-look chainset

Acera is Japanese company Shimano’s entry-level mountain bike groupset and for 2015 it has been given a makeover, and it now benefits from some of the technology first seen in its more expensive groupsets, including a Shadow rear mech and hydraulic disc brakes.

The Acera is a 9-speed groupset commonly found on mountain bikes costing about £500.

The main benefit of this trickle-down effect, as it’s called, is that there is now a dedicated mountain bike and trekking version, providing more choice for bicycle manufacturers and cyclists. The mountain bike flavoured Acera features a new 40/30/22t triple chainset with a “fresh and aggressive design.”

This new design language also finds its way into the rear mech, which is now a Shadow design, just like higher level SLX and Deore groupsets. The Shadow design rear mech is lower in profile so it provides better chainstay clearance, and is also less susceptible to rock strikes.

“Because of its low profile and single tension construction, the derailleur does not hit the chain stay in rough conditions,” says Shimano.

There’s also an updated front mech which similarly has a more compact profile, providing better clearance with the frame and wheels.

The 2-finger brake lever and gear shifters are now integrated for a cleaner design and improves the cable routing. A optical gear display window makes it easy to see what gear you’re in.

The Shimano Acera groupset is available with hydraulic disc brakes and they have designed them to be easy to bleed, along with ensuring all the components are made from anti-rust materials. Previously Acera was only available with a mechanical disc brake, so this represents a serious upgrade for Acera.

More info at cycle.shimano-eu.com