Single-chainring drivetrains are the measure of all things for many mountain bikers, the triple crankset even more so and the double crankset is currently anything but trendy. There are manufacturers who are even completely embracing the single chainring trend; Santa Cruz, for example, has been producing a bike that only works with one chainring for some time with the Nomad and the Californian manufacturer recently confirmed the 1x trend with the Hightower bike.

New XT cassette: 11-speed and 11-46 gradation
Shimano is now offering supplies for this single-chainring trend. To counteract the narrow range of the drivetrain with just one chainring, the Japanese company is launching a cassette with an 11-46 tooth gradation for the 2017 model year. Previously, Shimano had reached the peak of smoothness for 11-speed drivetrains with an 11-40 cassette. Since the introduction of the single-chainring concept, competitor Sram has been offering a cassette with a 10-42 tooth gradation. Sram will probably not be long in coming - and will enter the ring with Shimano to see who can achieve the widest range in the cassette.

A new DEORE XT cassette for 1x11-speed drivetrains now opens up a wider range with its gradation of 11-46 teeth and, according to Shimano, provides optimal gear ratio options for enduro riders. The target weight of the CS-M8000 cassette, which is suitable for use in XTR and XT systems, is 450 grams. Shimano has not yet provided any images of the new cassette.

1x11-speed chainrings
The new 1x11-speed chainrings for XTR and Deore XT have been further developed on the basis of intensive tests with world-class cross-country and trail riders. The tests covered every conceivable situation, from the dusty conditions of America and southern Europe to the heavy mud and slush of the Nordic winter.
Even more efficient chain guidance was the declared aim for the development of the new chainrings for the XTR (SM-CRM91) and the DEORE XT (SM-CRM81). This goal is achieved through the so-called Dynamic Chain Engagement. The revised tooth profiles of the CRM91 and CRM81 chainrings are shaped in such a way that they provide optimum retention and guidance of the chain on the chainring, while at the same time reducing drive noise and minimizing wear. According to Shimano, coated steel teeth on the DEORE XT guarantee maximum durability, while the reinforced aluminum teeth on the XTR side keep the weight pleasantly low.

Shimano has more news in store for the 2017 model year. The details will follow shortly on ride.ch