Shimano Launches New 11-Speed SLX Groupset and XT Goes Di2
Hot on the heels of others similarly choosing spring as the perfect opportunity to present their latest wares, Shimano has some exciting news. Not only do they have a revamped SLX groupset, arguably one of the most popular out there, and offering it in an 11-speed configuration, but they have also released information about the highly anticipated trickle down of their electric Di2 technology into the XT groupset. This stunning new SLX groupset will be available around June/ July and the new XT Di2 will be out around September.
SLX M7000 Groupset
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
Delivering a sleek makeover and high performance from the best pound-for-pound competitive-level mountain biking cranksets, derailleurs, cassettes, shifters, levers, rotors and hubs on the market.
The launch of Shimano’s new mid-range off-road SLX groupset brings many of the performance features of DEORE XT with affordability, durability, and compatibility to make it suitable for almost every type of mountain biker.
![2016 SLX prices USD]()
Provision for a wide range of MTB riding styles was the focus of the new SLX M7000 design. Three types of riders are catered for within the drivetrain options; those who favour a single chainring 1x11 set up for simplicity, those looking for an optimal 2x11 double chainring set up, or those riders needing the enhanced gear options and convenience coming with a 3x10 speed set up.
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
The lightweight and durable 11 speed-compatible FC-M7000-11 chainring (1x11 and 2x11) teeth feature Shimano’s new Dynamic Chain Engagement technology and are designed for the different power outputs delivered in each ring, offering enhanced chain retention, driving rigidity and highly efficient, precise shifting. In the 2x11 set up, close gear ratio combinations ensure a minimum shifting gap between gears and allow the rider to maintain an efficient rhythm throughout the complete range of gears. Set up options are kept to a chainring capacity of 10-teeth with three options (34-24T, 36-26T and 38-28T). 1x11 riders have the option of 30T, 32T or 34T chainrings to combine with two cassette options (11-40T and 11-42T). B-spec options are also available in double and single ring set ups to ensure chain lines can accommodate 148mm rear hubs.
The system solution behind these rider optimized gear combinations is known as DYNA-SYS11, which blends Shimano shifting technologies and designs to allow riders to deliver consistent, efficient power while maintaining traction and momentum. Meanwhile, the 3x10 crankset (FC-M7000-10) with its 40-30-22T tooth profile and DYNA-SYS shifting technology has been designed to give a consistent shifting performance with the most efficient drivetrain and practical gearing for recreational riders anywhere.
The new design of the 1x11, 2x11 and 3x10 cranksets is more than just a stunning aesthetics and outstanding mechanical design. Better bottom bracket sealings reduce water and dirt ingress and increase the long-term efficiency of crank rotation.
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
At the rear, lightweight and minimally designed 467g 11-40T cassette sprockets are in line with DYNA-SYS philosophies, allowing the rider to make smooth and precise gear changes and keep riding in the most efficient front driving gear for longer. 1x11-speed riders also have the option of choosing a wider 11-42T cassette for an expanded low end range. Meanwhile 3x10 riders can choose from11-32, 11-34 or 11-36T set ups with the existing CS-HG81-10 cassette.
Shifting on the SL-M7000-11/10 levers is taken care of by ergonomically designed Rapidfire Plus shift levers, allowing riders to downshift three gears in one stroke and release shifts by the index finger or the thumb. This simple but incredibly useful feature also provides light and consistently stable shifting across front and rear gears. I-spec II (SL-M7000-I / SL-M7000-10-I) and I-spec B-type (SL-M7000-B-I / SL-M7000-B-I) mount options allow for adaptable and versatile, rider-tuned cockpit options.
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
Where shift levers command, derailleurs respond. Now featuring at SLX lever, Shimano’s SHADOW RD+ technology provides sharp and silky shifts along with chain stability and a reduction in chain slap thanks to a lockable rear derailleur position. The medium cage 11-speed rear derailleurs (RD-M7000-11-GS) offer a drivetrain capacity of 41-teeth, whilst the long cage 10-speed rear derailleur (RD-M7000-10-SGS) offers a larger drivetrain capacity of 43-teeth to accommodate its triple chainring.
The shifting power of the 11-speed (FD-M7020-11) and 10-speed (FD-M7000-10) front derailleurs has been increased allowing for rapid shifts with efficient cable routing and a light shift operation. Mounting options include Side Swing, Top Swing and Down Swing front derailleurs to offer compatibility with shorter chain stays and large wheels and tyres.
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
The Rider Tuned position of the SLX BL-M7000 lever allows for smooth, consistent and predictable operation of the hydraulic disc brake system (BR-M7000) and, combined with heat-radiating, mud-shedding SM-RT70 160, 180 or 203mm rotors, you get high performance stopping power in all manner of riding conditions.
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
![Shimano M700 SLX groupset]()
DEORE XT Di2 M8050
Shimano's new DEORE XT Di2 M8050 groupset features wireless customization capabilities with upwards compatibility to the existing XTR components. Adding the increasing accuracy, speed, and precision of electronic shifting Shimano's 'Syncronized Shift' technology, which adjusts your front derailleur and your chain line automatically, the advantages to this new technology become abundantly clear. Much like the Shimano DEORE XT M8000 mechanical derailleur, the DEORE XT Di2 M8050 rear derailleur also features Shadow RD+ technology, which is designed to eliminate chain bounce and keep chains on sprockets over multiple types of terrain, leading to a more stable shifting platform.
![Shimano XT Di2]()
![2016 XT Di2 prices USD]()
Additionally, Shimano’s wireless D-FLY Data Management system will allow riders to see battery and gear information on their compatible third party display devices (eg bike computers). This technology will be rolled out with DEORE XT Di2 components and will be available as an upgrade for those currently riding Shimano XTR Di2, either with SC-MT800 or SCM9051 system information displays and a new internal or external battery.
![Shimano XT Di2]()
Firebolt shifters are designed to provide easy operation and accurate shifting with an ergonomic rotary action, short single-click action and effortless multi-shift possibilities. The Firebolt shift button placement is customizable and can be positioned exactly where the rider’s thumbs naturally rest. This allows you to shift faster and match your efforts like never before.
The Syncronized Shift technology inherent in the shifters means riders can rely solely on one shifter to take care of their rear and front gear changes. A customizable shift map means riders can program the exact gear ratio at which Di2 automatically shifts into the big ring when going up through the gears, or into the small ring when going down through the gears. Whichever gear ratio you choose, Shimano’s Rhythm Step philosophy ensures that riders make the minimum amount of incremental steps when changing up or down gears, allowing the rider to maintain an even cadence and fluid riding style. No large gear steps, no overworking joints, and muscles, just effortless pedaling throughout the gear range. No compromises, just a focus on simplicity and enjoyment.
![Shimano XT Di2]()
The shifters are designed to work in harmony with the SC-MT800 system information display, the RD-M8050 rear derailleur, and the FD-M8070 front derailleur. Not only does the SC-MT800 system information display give a visual display of the rider’s gear and battery level, but it is also the control point for operating the trim adjustment and reboot function and wirelessly adjusting the multi-shift speed and Syncronized Shift operation via computer, tablet or smart phone.
![Shimano XT Di2]()
The FD-M8070 front derailleur and RD-M8050 rear derailleur retain the accurate and stable shifting developed for XTR Di2 components. Computer-controlled auto-trim on the front derailleur keeps the drivetrain running smoothly. Meanwhile, at the rear, changes are seamless, even under high loads, on steep inclines or when cassettes are more mud than teeth. The derailleur motors are twice as powerful as those on Dura-Ace and Ultegra Di2 to give precise shifting in difficult conditions.
![Shimano XT Di2]()
Battery performance is identical to that of its big brother, XTR Di2, giving a minimum of several hundred kilometres of power under heavy usage (eg lots of shifting over three chainrings plus control of ancillary devices). The visual LED display indicates battery charge and the LED screen shuts off after a few seconds of inactivity to save battery life. If you do find yourself running low, charging the battery takes around 90 minutes and internal batteries work on a simple plug and play operation so can be easily swapped
Durability is also in line with XTR Di2 components. A sealed, waterproof system means DEORE XT Di2’s electronic signals will stand up to mud, water and dirt from the worst of winter. Plus, with no worrying about cross-chaining, cable stretch, or cable adjustments, your gear changes will be incredibly consistent.
Visit the high-res gallery for more images.
MENTIONS: @shimano
Delivering a sleek makeover and high performance from the best pound-for-pound competitive-level mountain biking cranksets, derailleurs, cassettes, shifters, levers, rotors and hubs on the market.
The launch of Shimano’s new mid-range off-road SLX groupset brings many of the performance features of DEORE XT with affordability, durability, and compatibility to make it suitable for almost every type of mountain biker.
FC-M7000-11 crankset featuring Shimano's 'Dynamic Chain Engagement' technology.
The lightweight and durable 11 speed-compatible FC-M7000-11 chainring (1x11 and 2x11) teeth feature Shimano’s new Dynamic Chain Engagement technology and are designed for the different power outputs delivered in each ring, offering enhanced chain retention, driving rigidity and highly efficient, precise shifting. In the 2x11 set up, close gear ratio combinations ensure a minimum shifting gap between gears and allow the rider to maintain an efficient rhythm throughout the complete range of gears. Set up options are kept to a chainring capacity of 10-teeth with three options (34-24T, 36-26T and 38-28T). 1x11 riders have the option of 30T, 32T or 34T chainrings to combine with two cassette options (11-40T and 11-42T). B-spec options are also available in double and single ring set ups to ensure chain lines can accommodate 148mm rear hubs.
The system solution behind these rider optimized gear combinations is known as DYNA-SYS11, which blends Shimano shifting technologies and designs to allow riders to deliver consistent, efficient power while maintaining traction and momentum. Meanwhile, the 3x10 crankset (FC-M7000-10) with its 40-30-22T tooth profile and DYNA-SYS shifting technology has been designed to give a consistent shifting performance with the most efficient drivetrain and practical gearing for recreational riders anywhere.
The new design of the 1x11, 2x11 and 3x10 cranksets is more than just a stunning aesthetics and outstanding mechanical design. Better bottom bracket sealings reduce water and dirt ingress and increase the long-term efficiency of crank rotation.
CS-HG81-10 cassette.
At the rear, lightweight and minimally designed 467g 11-40T cassette sprockets are in line with DYNA-SYS philosophies, allowing the rider to make smooth and precise gear changes and keep riding in the most efficient front driving gear for longer. 1x11-speed riders also have the option of choosing a wider 11-42T cassette for an expanded low end range. Meanwhile 3x10 riders can choose from11-32, 11-34 or 11-36T set ups with the existing CS-HG81-10 cassette.
Shifting on the SL-M7000-11/10 levers is taken care of by ergonomically designed Rapidfire Plus shift levers, allowing riders to downshift three gears in one stroke and release shifts by the index finger or the thumb. This simple but incredibly useful feature also provides light and consistently stable shifting across front and rear gears. I-spec II (SL-M7000-I / SL-M7000-10-I) and I-spec B-type (SL-M7000-B-I / SL-M7000-B-I) mount options allow for adaptable and versatile, rider-tuned cockpit options.
B-type shifter mount.
I-spec II shifter mount.
Where shift levers command, derailleurs respond. Now featuring at SLX lever, Shimano’s SHADOW RD+ technology provides sharp and silky shifts along with chain stability and a reduction in chain slap thanks to a lockable rear derailleur position. The medium cage 11-speed rear derailleurs (RD-M7000-11-GS) offer a drivetrain capacity of 41-teeth, whilst the long cage 10-speed rear derailleur (RD-M7000-10-SGS) offers a larger drivetrain capacity of 43-teeth to accommodate its triple chainring.
The shifting power of the 11-speed (FD-M7020-11) and 10-speed (FD-M7000-10) front derailleurs has been increased allowing for rapid shifts with efficient cable routing and a light shift operation. Mounting options include Side Swing, Top Swing and Down Swing front derailleurs to offer compatibility with shorter chain stays and large wheels and tyres.
RD-M7000-11-GS rear derailleur.
The Rider Tuned position of the SLX BL-M7000 lever allows for smooth, consistent and predictable operation of the hydraulic disc brake system (BR-M7000) and, combined with heat-radiating, mud-shedding SM-RT70 160, 180 or 203mm rotors, you get high performance stopping power in all manner of riding conditions.
SLX BL-M7000 brake lever, caliper and SM-RT70 rotor.
Shimano's new DEORE XT Di2 M8050 groupset features wireless customization capabilities with upwards compatibility to the existing XTR components. Adding the increasing accuracy, speed, and precision of electronic shifting Shimano's 'Syncronized Shift' technology, which adjusts your front derailleur and your chain line automatically, the advantages to this new technology become abundantly clear. Much like the Shimano DEORE XT M8000 mechanical derailleur, the DEORE XT Di2 M8050 rear derailleur also features Shadow RD+ technology, which is designed to eliminate chain bounce and keep chains on sprockets over multiple types of terrain, leading to a more stable shifting platform.
Di2 technology lands at DEORE XT level.
The most groundbreaking technology featuring on DEORE XT Di2 M8050 is a new wireless Bluetooth connection to Shimano’s E-TUBE program, which is the system Shimano uses to set up and control the Di2 shifting behaviour. Through Bluetooth technology, a rider or mechanic, can wirelessly communicate with their computer, tablet or a smart phone via the SC-MT800 system information display and a new battery. As well as allowing wireless workshop customizability, it allows riders to customize their shifting preferences on the trail via an app on their smartphones.
Additionally, Shimano’s wireless D-FLY Data Management system will allow riders to see battery and gear information on their compatible third party display devices (eg bike computers). This technology will be rolled out with DEORE XT Di2 components and will be available as an upgrade for those currently riding Shimano XTR Di2, either with SC-MT800 or SCM9051 system information displays and a new internal or external battery.
Firebolt shifter.
Firebolt shifters are designed to provide easy operation and accurate shifting with an ergonomic rotary action, short single-click action and effortless multi-shift possibilities. The Firebolt shift button placement is customizable and can be positioned exactly where the rider’s thumbs naturally rest. This allows you to shift faster and match your efforts like never before.
The Syncronized Shift technology inherent in the shifters means riders can rely solely on one shifter to take care of their rear and front gear changes. A customizable shift map means riders can program the exact gear ratio at which Di2 automatically shifts into the big ring when going up through the gears, or into the small ring when going down through the gears. Whichever gear ratio you choose, Shimano’s Rhythm Step philosophy ensures that riders make the minimum amount of incremental steps when changing up or down gears, allowing the rider to maintain an even cadence and fluid riding style. No large gear steps, no overworking joints, and muscles, just effortless pedaling throughout the gear range. No compromises, just a focus on simplicity and enjoyment.
SC-MT800 information display.
The shifters are designed to work in harmony with the SC-MT800 system information display, the RD-M8050 rear derailleur, and the FD-M8070 front derailleur. Not only does the SC-MT800 system information display give a visual display of the rider’s gear and battery level, but it is also the control point for operating the trim adjustment and reboot function and wirelessly adjusting the multi-shift speed and Syncronized Shift operation via computer, tablet or smart phone.
FD-M8070 front derailleur.
The FD-M8070 front derailleur and RD-M8050 rear derailleur retain the accurate and stable shifting developed for XTR Di2 components. Computer-controlled auto-trim on the front derailleur keeps the drivetrain running smoothly. Meanwhile, at the rear, changes are seamless, even under high loads, on steep inclines or when cassettes are more mud than teeth. The derailleur motors are twice as powerful as those on Dura-Ace and Ultegra Di2 to give precise shifting in difficult conditions.
RD-M8050 rear derailleur.
Battery performance is identical to that of its big brother, XTR Di2, giving a minimum of several hundred kilometres of power under heavy usage (eg lots of shifting over three chainrings plus control of ancillary devices). The visual LED display indicates battery charge and the LED screen shuts off after a few seconds of inactivity to save battery life. If you do find yourself running low, charging the battery takes around 90 minutes and internal batteries work on a simple plug and play operation so can be easily swapped
Durability is also in line with XTR Di2 components. A sealed, waterproof system means DEORE XT Di2’s electronic signals will stand up to mud, water and dirt from the worst of winter. Plus, with no worrying about cross-chaining, cable stretch, or cable adjustments, your gear changes will be incredibly consistent.
MENTIONS: @shimano
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Never even have to change cable and housing. Less fiddling with derailleurs too. Hopefully, really light shift action for those of us with finger joint issues.
The foolish fanboy comment of the day is getting really old on this site.
Di2 (Syncro shift!) for offroad at a third of the price of XTR....
But...but....I came here to complain. You're killing me PB!
Funny thing about bike prices - a bunch of stuff that's generally considered super competitive in Europe looks less so for the US consumer; YT, for example, is not all that much below their competition in pricing, despite being consumer direct. So by the time you get a good customer discount at your LBS, or figure in what goodies your LBS might throw into the mix for service, you end up pretty much right where you'd expect for US based brands like Kona or Santa Cruz when comparing similarly spec'd bikes. Whereas in Europe, US brands tend to be über-pricey. Go figure.
it was impossible to pass up
glad they righted it somewhat, but i have no doubt lots of LBS's died before this change was made
They wont sell you the pair they do have because they are already sold. Selling brakes sounds like something they do in fact do. So much so, that they had more buyers than product.
Derailleur pullies
Sources: www.bikerumor.com/2015/05/02/shimano-xt-m8000-pricing-announced-available-in-august, www.pinkbike.com/news/sram-eagle-12-speed-drivetrain-first-ride-2016.html, and this article
X01 Eagle cassette, shifter, derailleur, chain MSRP is $792.
XT Di2 cassette, shifter, derailleur, chain, electronics MSRP is $807
So OK, it's not "cheaper". It's $15 more for an ELECTRONIC DRIVETRAIN. If that doesn't say enough, I don't know what does.
I predict that when Di2 is fully mainstream, pulling the display off the bars is going to be the thing people do right after they buy a bike. DI2 display is the new dork disc.
2 decimals in some numbers.... dollar sign ($) only in half the numbers....yellow colored cells...border lines with different widths....capital letters mixed with non capital letters.
ugh!!!
XTR rear shifter
SLX cranks
SLX rear derailer
XT cassette
XTR chain
For a little more than SRAM entry level?
Electronic shifting is not much different than how suspension used to be elite class in the beginning and same for hydraulic brakes, where now the BR M445 is even cheaper than Deore and it is still a hydraulic disc brake that Shimano offers.
Deore is the top tier Malaysian.
And 105 Di2 is in the works AFAIK.
Di2 on an xx1 cassette could be nice
But that's the only one I could come up with too.
Edit: similar as in range, obviously not same quality wise for that price difference.
You seem to listen to the consumer so...
/kobe
You're Welcome
But I insist : I'd like Shimano to make one.
@ThomDawson: never seen one yet, but written reviews go from "works perfect" to "clearly not Shimano shifting and durability". So that's why a Shimano one would have huge success I think.
Anyway they're not so expensive (40€ MS3 450g and 60€ MX3 390g) so I'll take the risk.
but why should I buy a crank with a proprietary spider you can't change and no possibility for a dircet mount ring?
like many many times before with your news, that's just antiquated.
and please spec your slx brakes with some proper bolts you can still use after tightening them one...
Can't believe it takes this long, direct mount has been the standard on BMX for at least 8 years now.
The rest of the MTB scene already caught up in the meanwhile, except for Shimano. Too bad because I like Shimano cranks except for the lack of direct mount possibility. Not the first time Shimano has been releasing outdated products..
When I smash off my XT in the Alps this year it'll be replaced with SLX now.
Common and bring out the 11spd Zee and Saint.
Why should Saint and Zee stay 10spd? That makes no sense
Would make sense to bring out a small block DH version, but denying them to the lucrative "enduro" market would be stupid.
Always spec an XTR shifter.
I smashed 4 Zees last year but wasn't fussed because they only cost £30 (at the time).
Since when were Saint and Zee DH only anyway?
People are already super confused on this I-spec stuff, no need to add to it.
DH bike I can understand single shift
It's a crap shoot because it depends on the combination of frame, chainring, cassette, and chain.
I can get about 1500km and about 3 months to a charge. And I always charge when it hits 25%.
BTW - SLX looks absolutely stunning! Crankset and rear mech look incredible, better than XTR. Bravo bravo Shimano! Great pricing too.
XTR Di2 2x at launch was 3500 msrp
XT Di2 2x at launch is 1101 msrp
How is this not more affordable?
Also, who said mechanical units are going anywhere?! Pretty sure nobody has ever said that with any seriousness.
Some people went to extents claiming that electronic shifting will become cheaper than mechanical hence they will go out of production. Probably same sort of people who say carbon frames are cheaper to make than aluminium ones and eventually, in not so distant future, we will all ride carbon bikes.
Less than a third of the price is considerably 'more affordable'.
Also, to now say slx di2 would 'never be affordable by any means' is just utter bollocks. Who are you to decide what is more affordable to everyone? Then somehow using your baffling logic, you say Eagle is killing shimano? But how, given it's utterly obscene price also? How can it kill anything if nobody can afford it using your own version of reality here.
Face it, you were proved wrong. Just own up and move on.
So, that being established, less than half price is definitely "more affordable" whether you feel it is affordable or not.
Either way, who are you to decide what is or is not affordable for anyone?
Also, you would use it if it was given to you for free. You know you would. It's a no risk deal, it breaks you go back to mechanical. Stop making up ridiculous things like that as ifif it proves your point somehow.
You know di2 won't sell for the msrp, just like mechanical never has either really. But fudging the figures slightly lower to try and prove yourself right is just sad.
Did I say it was cheap? Did I say it was affordable for all? No.
But it is more affordable now than it was before.You just seem upset that your comment (forget what you later said you 'really' meant) isn't correct.
What have s-works bikes got the do with a drivetrain? Or Enve wheels (which there are a hell of a lot of on here it must be said if you look around, so seems to be quite 'affordable' for many really).
This boils down to you saying "I'd rather spend 500 on . . . . blah blah blah". YOU would rather. YOU. Not the general population of mountain bikers, just you and your opinion. You are passing this off as a fact that covers everybody and their own feelings/bank balances. Surely you can see how that is not right at all.
Nevermind the fact that prices will continue to drop as the mechanical parts are phased out of the upper-level product. Another generation or two and XTR will be Di2 ONLY. Yes, SLX will eventually get Di2 options. So there is absolutely NO question that electronic drivetrains will continue to get more and more affordable for more and more riders
Hilarious.
or b) you'd need at least a 36in wheeled mtb (not many out there) to make it a viable gear. Being fat or unfit has nothing to do with it just simple math!