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Just like London buses, Shimano launches come in twos, and this time the headline grabber is the junior partner in the launch brace.
Deore, the starting point for serious Shimano MTB components, is now available as a Di2 option.
The arrival for M6200 brings electric shifting to the most affordable of the Japanese brands mountain bike groupsets*, and this (IMHO) overshadows the next generation of XT Di2, M8200, which launches at the same time.
Deore M6200 includes two Di2 rear derailleur options – for regular and E-MTB use – and an intuitive Di2 shift switch for Shimano’s fastest shifting speeds and most intuitive riding experience yet.
RD-M6250 – Wireless Rear Derailleur
RD-M6260 – Wired E-MTB Rear Derailleur
- Shadow ES Technology
- Wired rear derailleur for E-MTB
- Constant power supply from e-bike battery
- Auto Shift technology
- Free Shift technology
- Long cage SGS for use with 10-51T cassette
- 12-Speed RD-M626012 for Hyperglide+
- 11-Speed RD-M626011L for Linkglide
The shifter switch with Rapid Fire ES providing “tactile feedback for improved control”, a characteristic perfected over generations of mechanical shifting development and proven with Deore XT M8200 and XTR M9200.
The new switches can be placed in more locations on the bar, while the button functions can be optimized for different riding preferences, allowing riders to dial in their setup just the way they like it.
- SHIMANO RAPID FIRE ES technology
- Precise and fast wireless shifting
- Tactile feel with each shift
- Multiple shift modes including single click and hold down multi-shift
- Programmable third button on shifter for added customization like controlling your bike computer or controlling FREE SHIFT and AUTO SHIFT functions through the E-TUBE app
- I-SPEC EV and clamp band options
What about Deore XT M8200?
- Fully Wireless Di2 Platform – Redesigned Di2 system with fast, precise shifting in a wireless design.
- Robust Drivetrain Construction – Built to survive trail impacts for rider confidence.
- Intuitive Ergonomics – Controls with a natural fit and feel, plus added adjustability so you can focus on the trail ahead.
- Predictable Braking Control – Refined power application with consistent performance and modulation in a wider temperature range.
- Freedom of Choice – More component options and Di2 features that can be optimized for riders’ terrain, style, and performance needs.
XT M8200: A complete groupset, including wheelset and hubs
Making the most of the tech which comes as part of the new XTR M9250 rear derailleur, XT M8250 features the new Shadow ES technology with a low-profile wedge design.
Just as with XTR, the stabilizer unit is fully integrated into the body of the derailleur. The significant visual difference for XT, that it doesn’t feature the carbon fibre cage found on the new XTR derailleur options.
The RD-M8250 wireless rear derailleur comes in GS – for use with 9-45T cassette – and SGS – for use with 10-51T Cassette.
For e-bike riders, RD-M8260 comes as Long Cage SGS, which supports both 12-Speed RD-M826012 for Hyperglide+, and 11-Speed RD-M826011L for Linkglide
Cassette options range from 9-45T and 10-51T in CS-M8200 12 speed.
The new XT M8200 crankset takes its design cues from the new XTR M9200 series, “providing a balance between strength and weight”. Shimano has decided to offer one configuration to suit trail, enduro, and cross-country (XC) riding, which might make a few weight weenies and trail shredders question who it can be both light and strong.
The crank features a 176mm q-factor, 55mm chain line, direct-mount chainring design, and a standard 24mm steel axle.
Stopping power makes a difference
XT M8200 is offered in several brake setup options for different riding styles and/or needs.
These utilize a single brake lever BL-M8200, where riders can then choose between the 4-piston BR-M8220 caliper and the lighter weight BR-M8200 (post mount) and BR-MT805 (flat mount) two-piston caliper designs.
XT brakes utilize the reformulated low-viscosity mineral oil introduced with XTR, which has, Shimano says, been selected for its capability to work across a wider temperature range.
The groupset includes new WH-M8200 alloy wheels that are “lightweight and durable enough for Enduro and XC riding” – which doesn’t exactly suggest they’re keeping either rider group truly happy, but will likely offer a solid and dependable option when specced as OEM.
WH-M8200 are available in both 29-inch and 27.5-inch options, and feature an “improved hub design for easy service while offering superior sealing.”
