Although the cyclo-cross season has kicked off, the reason my body hasn't quite switched into "cyclo-cross mode" might be because of this.
いまいち身体がシクロモードに切り替わらないのは、コイツのせいかもしれません。
A little while ago, Shimano's Deore XT mountain bike components underwent a full model change to the M8000 series.
I had managed to get my hands on them early, but it was so hot at the time that, although I did assemble them, I couldn't bring myself to go out and test them, so they sat neglected for a while. Now that this season has arrived, however, the mountains are calling me to come out and play.
And in the mountains, this gear performed brilliantly.
I'm typing this up in the hopes of sharing its merits with you all.
The major features of this model change include moving to 11-speed like the XTR, with the option for a massive 42T sprocket; the option for a single-chainring setup in the front; and the notable change that the silver color lineup has been discontinued, with only black now available.
This is the configuration I chose as well.
I went with a 1x11 bike and installed the 42T maximum sprocket.
In terms of design, it has become cleaner compared to the previous XT, and personally, I find it very appealing.
I've taken it out for a trail ride of about 20km, and while the rear 42T was almost too light to handle on rough, steep climbs, it was incredibly useful on straight ascents. While it might be difficult to utilize on my 26-inch MTB, bikes with larger tire sizes like 26-plus, 650B, or 29er should be able to maximize the benefits of improved traversal power thanks to those wheel sizes.
Visually, the 42T sprocket, which is almost the same size as a 180mm rotor, is quite impressive.
As for concerns about the chain falling off when running a front single setup, I experienced zero issues during my ride, thanks to the rear derailleur with its stabilizer and the redesigned tooth profile of the chainring.
The brakes don't have any major changes, but they certainly feel like a new model, with improved serviceability and consistent, reliable stopping power.
Within Shimano's MTB component lineup, where the top-grade XTR exists, the XT should be the model that truly embodies both where Shimano is now and where it is heading.
The M8000 series XT displays that role perfectly, and I wouldn't be surprised if it becomes known as a legendary piece of gear.
I might be praising it a bit too much (lol), but it really is a user-friendly and highly reliable model.
If you are looking for mountain bike components from here on out, choosing this without hesitation would be the best decision you could make.
You can choose it with confidence.
Well then, I'm heading out to the mountains again for my days off this week.