Processing & details

Shimano offers the new XTR in three setups. In addition to Cross Country and Marathon, there is also an Enduro version. It goes without saying that the workmanship of the top Japanese groupset is of the highest standard. It has been considered state of the art for years.

Details on the variants can be found here:

• Cross Country
• Marathon
• Enduro

In action

Assembly
For experienced hobby mechanics, assembly and adjustment is not a problem, neither for the derailleur group nor for the brakes. The only thing to note with the cassette is that the smallest sprocket must be aligned with the existing marking. If the sprocket is not mounted according to the marking, it is impossible to adjust the gears perfectly. If the brake line has been shortened, it does not need to be bled.

It should be noted that the cassette can only be fitted with a micro-spline body. There are now some hub and wheel suppliers who have the license for this. However, not all hubs are suitable for this.

Thanks to Shimano's I-Spec mounting system, the cockpit is tidy and can be easily adjusted to the desired ergonomics. The Japanese even offer a remote lever for dropper posts, which is mounted directly on the brake clamp and is compatible with the posts of the most popular suppliers.

Shifter group
Ride already tested the groupset at a press camp in summer 2018. The impression gained back then has not changed, even after eight months of use in the snow, mud and summer heat: it still works perfectly and has never had to be readjusted.

The first impression can be read under the following link: LINK
In this report, we focus on the long-term experience and the test of the brake.

The setup we rode with a 32 t chainring and a 10/51 cassette was sufficient for even the steepest alpine climbs. Compared to Sram Eagle cassettes, the jump from the second largest to the largest sprocket is only six teeth instead of eight, making it more ergonomic to pedal on steep climbs. If there is anything to criticize about the groupset, it is only the somewhat plumb "on" position of the rear derailleur stabilizer: the lever does not engage noticeably. This somehow doesn't fit in with the otherwise absolutely high-quality and precise workmanship and function. However, the derailleur is never affected by this.

The tested crank is from the pre-series, which went into production late. Shimano has delivered a "replacement crank" in the meantime. More about this here: LINK
In the meantime, the model in question is available from stock from Swiss distributor Fuchs-Movesa.

4-piston brake
If you had to describe the new XTR brakes in one word, it would be "reliability". Even downhill orgies don't bring them to their knees. A slight fading does occur after around 1500 Elevation loss without a long break, but this has no real influence on the braking performance and it does not harden. It can always be operated without much effort and grips firmly when required without feeling brute. The new brake is much easier to modulate than its predecessor.

Only the brake pads are somewhat susceptible in damp conditions. If the bike is left unused in a slightly damp cellar for more than two weeks, they oxidize. It then takes a few descents before they stop squealing and develop their full braking power. The problem only occurred between December and March. When it got warmer after that, it no longer happened. During the warmer months, however, the bike only stood still once for four weeks due to an accident.

During the entire test period, the brakes did not need to be readjusted or bled. Not even when the groupset was mounted on a new frame.

The wear on the pads and rotors is rather low. The latter have warped slightly at the front after an "overheated" ride, but so little that they do not rub against the pads.

Remote control for telescopic support
Installation is effortless. The function in combination with a Kindshock LEV Carbon is flawless. The post can be operated sensitively with the Shimano lever and never had to be readjusted.

Conclusion

In all honesty, you expect nothing more from Shimano's XTR groupset than reliable function, smooth shifting and steadfast braking. These expectations were met in full. The few points of criticism are whining at a high level. The new Shimano 12-speed drivetrain can keep up with Sram's proven top Eagle groupset. In the end, the individual preference for the respective provider decides.

Recommendation

The high quality has its price, so the high-end group is certainly not affordable for everyone. However, anyone who is looking for lightweight construction or for whom only the best is good enough will enjoy this groupset for a long time. For slightly smaller budgets, we are currently testing the new 12-speed Deore XT groupset - our report will follow in spring 2020.

Price: from CHF 2354.00

Manufacturer/distributor

www.bike.shimano.com / www.fuchs-movesa.ch