Key Points at a Glance

As has been the case in recent decades, the innovations introduced with the XTR groupset are carried over almost identically to the more affordable Deore XT. In most cases, the components differ only in terms of some variations in manufacturing and the materials used. Until now, both groupsets have offered nearly the same level of performance, with only the weight of individual parts varying. This is also the case with the new Di2 groupsets. The weight difference between the shifting groups is about 220 grams; for the brakes, it’s just 25.

More on the new group here.

First impressions

When comparing the XT components with those of the top-tier groupset, they appear nearly equivalent. Only a few screws or plastic parts are slightly higher quality on the XTR.

Installing the drivetrain yourself is recommended only for experienced mechanics. Although the packaging includes a pile of slips of paper, there are no instructions included. You have to search for them online, and they’re well hidden on a page with product manuals for specialty retailers. The manual isn’t always self-explanatory. If you’re looking for information on the upper limit screw or the B-screws, you won’t find it. Fine-tuning the gears via the Shimano app isn’t that easy either, since adjusting the rear derailleur position always affects all gears and not just a single one. The competition does this better.

In contrast, the brake can be installed as usual and without any trouble. Bleeding the brakes after shortening the line wasn’t necessary. If it is, be careful! The new product generation uses a different mineral brake fluid. The previous fluid isn’t compatible with the seals on the new brakes.

In Use

A detailed test report on the groupset isn’t worth the effort here, as it would be nearly identical to the one for the recently tested XTR.

In a blind test, you’d hardly notice a difference and wouldn’t be able to tell which groupset is mounted on the bike. The XT’s shifting is slightly slower and not quite as smooth under load. However, that’s just nitpicking, as you’d only notice it in a direct comparison test. The only thing we don’t like about the XT is the loud clunking of the rear derailleur. The same issue was already noted during testing of the new XTR. Interestingly, the noise level varies depending on the bike. Over the past few months, Ride has tested several bikes equipped with the new Di2 groupsets, and the clattering noise varied in intensity from bike to bike. Here, too, no difference was noticeable between the XT and the XTR.

Even after several months of use, the new generation of Shimano brakes leaves nothing to criticize. The braking power is significantly higher than in previous systems, and modulation is better than before. There is no spongy feel or fading, even on long, braking-intensive descents.

Conclusion

As with earlier generations of Shimano groupsets, purchasing an XTR makes sense if money is no object, but weight savings are a priority. In terms of function, the Deore XT is in no way inferior to the top-tier groupset. There’s nothing to complain about when it comes to shifting quality. If you don’t want to completely re-equip your bike but simply want to switch to wireless technology, go for the upgrade kit. This kit includes the rear derailleur and shifter, as well as a charger, and is fully compatible with the drivetrain components of the previous groupset.

Switching to the new generation of brakes is recommended if you want just a bit more stopping power.Otherwise, the Shimano brakes are as reliable as ever.

As with previous generations, the current Deore XT groupset delivers the latest technology at a lower price.
    
Upgrade kit price: CHF 730.00 / EUR 784.95
Brake price without rotors: CHF 445.00 / EUR 459.90

Manufacturer

www.bike.shimano.com