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Shimano ups SRAM Eagle with new 12-speed MTB group

  • Ron 

With SRAM on the cusp of introducing an eTap version of their top of the line Eagle MTB group, Shimano is attempting to up the bar with the latest iteration of their XTR line.

What will get the most attention with this release is the introduction of a 12 speed cassette with a 10-51T range (besting Eagle by one tooth), but there is plenty of other new tech happening here as well.

Drivetrain. This one goes to 11 OR 12

Let’s start with the drivetrain and go from there. XTR M9100 will offer a range of gearing choices, single and double front chainring setups and a unique 11-speed drivetrain option that shaves valuable weight off the system without sacrificing performance and speed. Chain retention has been drastically
improved as well thanks to advancements with the new M9100 rear derailleur design.

Drivetrain options include:

  • 1×12 drivetrain with Wide Range 10-51T cassette
  • 1×12 drivetrain with Rhythm Step 10-45T cassette
  • 2×12 drivetrain with 10-45T cassette for wide range AND ideal gear steps
  • 1×11 lightweight drivetrain with 10-45T cassette

The newly redesigned CS-M9100 cassette uses HYPERGLIDE+ technology to guide the chain both up and down the cassette, providing faster, smoother shifting in both directions. Adding to XTR M9100’s smooth drivetrain transmission, the new CN-M9100 HG chain features an extended inner link plate that connects seamlessly with new chainring tooth shapes for Shimano’s most efficient drivetrain. The new design reduces natural vibrations normally caused by the inner and outer chain plates rolling onto the chainring and provides better chain engagement, stronger retention, and smoother pedaling.

 

CS-M9100 – Wide Range Cassette or “Rhythm Step” Cassette

  • 10-51T – 12-speed Wide Range offers 510% gear range
  • 10-45 T– 12-speed Rhythm Step offers 450% gear range with more ideal gear steps

CS-M9110-11 – Lightweight Cassette

Built on the 10-51-tooth, 12-speed platform, this cassette offers the same Micro-Spline design to work
with a small 10-tooth cog but decreases weight by up to 76 grams.

Updated Hollowtech Crank

In opposition to SRAM’s 1x focus, Shimano will continue to offer XTR in both 1x and 2x configurations. The new M9100 HOLLOWTECH II crank offers a lighter and stiffer design and includes options for both front single and double front chainrings. Two Q-factor options (162mm and 168mm) are available for different rider needs and bike requirements. Chainrings are easily exchanged with the new direct-mount system and the cranks can be swapped between single and double front chainring setups.

Micro Spline Freehub System

Much like SRAM’s XD driver, fitting a 10 speed cog required re-thinking of current freehub design. The MICRO SPLINE FREEHUB delivers a lightweight construction that works seamlessly with the system’s
new small 10-tooth cog. As the name suggests, MICRO SPLINE features smaller freehub splines that help eliminate damage on the lightweight aluminum freehub.

The new hubs also feature SHIMANO’s quieter SCYLENCE technology that provides rapid acceleration and higher rigidity for quick, 7.6-degree engagement. The freehub body is constructed of two
driver plates that completely disengage when you stop pedaling, eliminating any freehub ratchet sounds while coasting.

At present, Shimano does not seem to be rolling the Micro Spline freehub design out to other hub manufacturers, and instead will offer a variety of hub options with the MICRO SPLINE, SCYLENCE, and
CENTER LOCK technology in XTR and non-XTR levels.

Derailleurs

New XTR features three rear derailleurs that enhance shifting performance and are optimized for wide range cassettes with use in single or double front chainring systems. The derailleurs feature bigger 13-tooth pulleys and include Shimano’s proven Shadow RD+ low profile technology. Different cage lengths (SGS versus GS) are optimized for different gear ratios, providing optimal systems to work with the new 10-51 wide range cassette, 10-45 rhythm step cassette and one derailleur optimized for 2×12.

Continuing the company’s dominance in front derailleur technology and performance, XTR M9100 delivers the newly designed FD-M9100-D/E/M side swing front derailleur with three mounting options: Direct mount, E mount, and Mid clamp. All three derailleurs work with 49 and 52mm chain lines.

Shifters and Levers

Enhancing lever access and shifting speed, the new RAPIDFIRE PLUS shift levers offer light operation force and more versatility. Shimano’s new I-Spec EV lever design features greater flexibility in mounting for a clean and ergonomic cockpit. And for double chainring systems, the lever simplifies front shifting with a lightweight and compact design that shifts up and down with a single lever.

Braking

Further improving Shimano’s legendary mountain bike braking system, new XTR increases brake rigidity for greater bike control and optimizes braking performance for different riding styles. The 2-piston XC brake system offers a lightweight package with high rigidity while the Enduro-style 4-piston design prioritizes power and smooth braking feel.

To improve rigidity at the lever, Shimano moved the brake clamp position inboard, creating an extra point of contact between the bar and the lever. This added bracing drastically increases efficiency and control over the bike while offering quick brake engagement. The new design minimizes impact on cockpit real estate, creating space between the clamp and support point for mounting other handlebar accessories.

Pedals

The new M9100 XC pedals improve rider stability with wider edge-to-edge contact areas while improving mud shedding through rounded contact points and off-set bindings. Shimano’s Rider-Tuned design offers two axle length options including a new 3mm shorter axle to minimize the Q-factor for XC riders who are running Boost drivetrains. This new shorter axle also matches the Q-factor of Shimano’s SPD-SL road pedals, providing a smooth transition for road riders diving into gravel.

Tags: aluminum, bicycle, Bicycle gears, bicycles, chainring, Cogset, cycling, Derailleur gears, Enduro, Freehub, mountain, mountain bike, performance, power, Shimano, Sports equipment, SRAM, SRAM Corporation, technology
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