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Unlike Sram, Shimano still offers an option with two chainrings on the crank. The arguments in favour of a 2x12 drivetrain are clear: there is no current MTB drivetrain with a wider range (total gear ratio) and such a fine gradation of gears. Despite the same number of sprockets, Shimano only releases the 2x12 drivetrain for the more finely graded cassette with 10-45 teeth. The variant with the large 51-tooth sprocket is still reserved for single drivetrains (1x12). If you combine a 1x12 Shimano drivetrain with a 30 t chainring, you will therefore have a similar climbing gear to the 2x12 drivetrain with its small 26 t chainring. There is also a specific rear derailleur for double drivetrains with a different geometry to the single version.
Shimano front derailleurs: designations and variants
The days of countless front derailleur standards such as Top Swing or Down Pull are over with the current 12-speed drivetrains from Shimano - fortunately. Shimano now only offers Side-swing ejector in three standards. The shift cable must always come from the front for side-swing derailleurs.
- Older or inexpensive aluminium frames usually have a Classic clamp mounting. The front derailleur is clamped to the circular seat tube.
- Fullys in particular usually have a E-Type mounting option. The front derailleur is attached to the frame with two bolts.
- If the front derailleur is attached with a bolt above the chainring, this is the Direct mount standard.
Shimano 2x12 drivetrain: Adjusting the derailleur as a video guide
The most important adjustment screws of a Shimano XT front derailleur
The Outer stop screw is equipped with a H for "high gear" and limits the outward swivelling range of the front derailleur. It prevents the chain from being thrown over the large chainring.
The Inner stop screw is equipped with a L for "low gear" and limits the swivelling range of the front derailleur inwards. It prevents the chain from falling onto the bottom bracket.
Clamping screw (C): This screw clamps the cable to the derailleur. The cable tension is adjusted on the shift lever.
The Fastening screw (D) connects the front derailleur to the frame. This allows the Height distance of the front derailleur to the chainrings. Our bike has an E-type front derailleur standard. With other mounting options, this screw is in a different position.
