The New Shimano XT
The debut of Dynasys in 2010 on XT was the first step towards the full group make-over for the 2012 model. Having firmly established a host of new features for XTR, those features now work their way into XT, once again boosting the value and relevance of the group. While the core of XT is still biased toward trail use, several options allow for even more customized application to specific terrain, bike types, and cosmetics. Two of the major options will be the addition of a double crank along with the popular triple and the choice of black or silver for the components.
SL-M780 Rapidfire Shifter
Advanced Light Action shifting with VIVID index requires the same amount of force to shift between the two largest cogs as it takes to shift between the two smallest. The VIVID index establishes intuitive shifting feedback without adding unnecessary shifting force to the system. Instant, multi-, and 2-way release are all integrated into the newest generation shifter as well as a mode converter that allows the left hand unit to be tuned specifically to the crank set being used.
Ispec (integrated brake lever mount) version available
BL-M785 / BR-M785 Hydraulic Disc Brake System
The Servo-Wave XT hydraulic disc brakes continue to borrow from the features developed for XTR that provide huge leaps in braking and control. The new compact caliper with oversized 22mm ceramic pistons is combined with a lightweight lever for a brake that lighter yet packs 25% greater braking power when the ICE Technologies brake pads and rotor. The rotors have been proven to reduce temperatures of the rotor as much as 100% over a standard all steel rotor, and will be available in a 6-bolt pattern as well as the Shimano innovated Center Lock. Mechanics will appreciate the integration of the same one-way bleed that debuted on XTR last year.
BL-M785 is compatible with Ispec shifter mount
Servo-Wave provides better modulation along with greater maximum power
Ice Tech Centerlock rotors consisting of a stainless steel clad aluminum core
FC-M780 (top) / FC-M785 Crankset
The central component to the Dyna-Sys drive-train comes in two varieties: a double or triple. The rider can choose the option that best suits their style, fitness, or terrain. The ever popular and more versatile triple comes with a 42-32-24T ring set with the proven composite enhanced middle ring for maximum shift smoothness. Most notably, the 24T inner ring offers a significant improvement in efficiency compared with a 22T and still provides a very low gear for climbing when paired with a 36T rear cog. A trail oriented 2×10 crank debuts with a 38-26T ring set as well as a more cross-country oriented 40-28T combo. Both double cranks feature a unique crank with a 48.8mm chainline for better frame clearance and best compatibility on a wide range of bikes.
Triple or double gearing: 42-32-24T, 40-28T, or 38-26T
Carbon composite reinforced middle ring on triple
RD-M780 Shadow Rear Derailleur
The Shadow rear derailleur design continues to be improved and combined with the newest shifter design optimizes the overall system stability. The new longer arm geometry of the cable fixing anchor takes stability a step further as well as provides a more tolerant system adjustment.
Enhanced system stability with Shadow technology
PD-M780 (left) / PD-M785 Pedals
The PD-M780 pedals increase pedal surface contact area by 5 times vs. the PD-M770 for incredible pedaling stability. An offset binding allows mud to flow through the pedal better than prior designs for the best possible performance in muddy conditions.
Completely new pedal for 2012, the PD-M785 is an XT quality pedal aimed at trail use. An integrated pedal cage offers greater stability even when not clipped in with an increase in surface area of 8.5 times over the PD-M770.
WH-M785 / WH-M788 Wheels
Two new wheel options will feature different rim widths and axle options. The WH-M785 will have a 19×559 profile rim with 15mm front hub and QR rear wheel. The WH-M788 will feature a wider 21×559 rim offering a different platform for wider tires and will come with a 15mm front axle and the option for a 12X142mm rear or QR rear.
CN-HG94 / CS-M771 Drivetrain
The drivetrain is completed with the Dyna-Sys 10-speed CN-HG94 and CS-M771 cogset introduced in 2010. The HG-X asymmetric design chain has inner and outer plates that take specific advantage of the contours of the Hyperglide cogset. Cogset options are 11-36T, 11-34T and 11-32T.
