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Everyone knows that the Shimano XT and XTR groupsets are among the best on the MTB market. However, there is often confusion about the lower groupsets in the Shimano line-up. So let's get it straight: Altus, Acera, Alivio, Deore, SLX, XT and XTR - that's the order from bottom to top. And it is precisely the three lowest MTB groupsets that are now getting a major update from Shimano so that they can better keep up with their bigger siblings.
Cranks and hubs
First on the list of innovations were the cranks and hubs. The new Altus, Acera and Alivio cranks have been brought up to date in terms of design, and chainrings should now also be much easier to change if the gear ratio doesn't fit at all. And the hubs are now finally also available in Boost format with a width of 148 millimetres on the rear wheel and 110 millimetres on the front wheel. This enables stiffer wheels and also increases compatibility with other new components.
Brakes, derailleurs and cassettes
Cassettes and rear derailleurs have also been revised. This is said to have made gear changes faster and more precise - although Shadow technology is still reserved for the higher-end Shimano groupsets. However, the new front derailleur of the double Alivio could prove to be a real functional advantage. It should not only shift better, but also offer significantly better tyre clearance than before, so that chainstays can be designed shorter and wider tyres can be fitted than before. This is a great advantage, especially for beginners.
Last but not least, the brake levers have also been revised. Now you can finally enjoy the much-praised ergonomics of XT and XTR levers, which can be operated with one finger and sit very comfortably in the hand, even in Shimano's affordable groupsets. This development is particularly favourable for riders with small hands. The grip width of the levers can be adjusted by a full 2.5 centimetres, which means that even children and teenagers should no longer get arm cramps when braking.
The new Shimano Alivio, Acera and Altus parts will be available in stores from June 2018. Further information can be found on the website of Shimano.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
