Shimano has just quietly announced a new rendition of their low end Deore drivetrain, the new Deore M6000. With this new tech Deore is more capable than ever before. While no single ring drivetrain option is currently offered at the Deore level (it’s still 2×10 and 3×10), with a new 10-speed 11-42T cassette a 1x Deore option could serve you well if you suplied your own cranks. Here are some choice bits from Shimano’s press release:
Deore M6000 remains as a 10-speed groupset but with some innovative features for confident, smooth, flexible riding with limitless possibilities.
The 2×10 drivetrain (FC-M6000) adopts the family look of XTR, XT and SLX drivetrains with a sleek four-arm Hollowtech II one-piece composite design in 3 size options (38-28T, 36-26T, 34-24T) and an alternative 3mm outboard Boost version. Meanwhile the 3×10 drivetrain takes on a unique, aggressive look offering 40-30-22T for a wide range of riding styles. Both drivetrains combine with a new wider range 11-42T 10-speed Dyna-Sys cassette (CS-HG500) as well as three other 11-36/34/32T cassette options.
2×10 and 3×10-speed gear changes are handled by a Shadow RD+ derailleur in the rear (RD-M6000-GS) offering improved chain stability and retention. Up front, three derailleur swing options (top, down and side) can be combined with five types of mount options (high, low, direct mount, e-type and a new mid-type) to offer cable routing and/or satisfy new manufacturing requirements such as rear suspension or tyre clearance.
Some other Shimano parts have seen upgrades, such as bringing the XT styling to Deore brakes, and–about time!–an 11-46T 11-speed cassette to SLX. Several of Shimano’s wheels and hub options have been beefed up for extra stiffness and Boost compatibility across the board.
The new parts will be available May 2017. No word on pricing yet.
