Shimano's new SLX comes with three cranks and therefore three gear options. For purists, there is the single crank (with 30, 32 or 34 teeth) and therefore 11 gears. For riders who appreciate versatility and range, there is a double crank and therefore 22 gears available (in 34-24, 36-26 and 38-28 gradations).

Those who value a maximum number of gears can also rely on a triple crank (with 40-30-22 gradation) and therefore 30 gears. Shimano offers the triple crank with a strikingly aggressive large chainring design. The 11-40 and 11-42 gradations are available for the cassettes, and the familiar 11-32, 11-34 and 11-36 cassettes are also available for the triple pilots.

When changing gears, three gears can now be shifted through with one gear shift. The new rear derailleurs have a capacity of 41 teeth in the 11-speed medium-length version, while the 10-speed rear derailleur for the tri-cranks has a capacity of 43 teeth. Those riding with a front derailleur can choose between the Side Swing, Top Swing and Down Swing linkages - Shimano wants to create more space for short chainstays and wide rims and tires, especially with the Side Swing version.

Shimano has done some fine work on the hubs and improved the seals and treads. The new SLX hubs are also available in the Boost standard. In terms of brakes, the SLX stoppers are visually and technically closer to their XT counterparts.

According to Shimano, the new parts should be available for the first time in June and July.

www.shimano.com