Shimano acknowledge that since they last made a significant upgrade to their top of the range XTR component range in 2010 mountain biking has changed a great deal. With the birth of the Enduro format and SRAM’s 1×11 technology shifting the boundaries of what riders expect from their drivetrains. The XTR M9000 groupset is a versatile and potentially game changing concept. The foundation of the M9000 is the 11 speed (11-40T) cassette. Working with the added gear inches offered by the 11 speed cluster, riders will be able to choose from one, two or three chainrings. Shimano’s XTR 1×11 is designed for competitive racers, the 2×11 is designed to be a flexible no compromise choice, while the massive range of the 3×11 is ideal for less fit riders looking to conquer everything the mountain throws at them.
The new 3D hollow bonded XTR crank arm, for racers, is one and two chainring compatible with the cold forged option, for normal riders, is compatible with one, two and three chainring options. And the XTR 1x chainring features retention technology, with a unique tooth profile that eliminates the need for chain retention devices.
The new XTR range also features a 11 speed chain (obviously), premium carbon wheels for cross country or all mountain in both 29er and 27.5 inch sizes, trail and race XTR M9000 brakes, a refined Shadow RD+ clutch rear derailleur, a new front derailleur, improved ergonomically designed shifters and polymer-coated cables for 20% smoother shifting.
