Shimano 11-46 cassette, new chainrings, affordable brakes
After months of speculation in our forums and elsewhere, the rumors have been confirmed (click to enlarge).
While rumors had been circulating for months that Shimano was developing a wider range version of their 11-40 and 11-42 11-speed cassettes, the brand officially confirmed today that a new 11-46 cassette would be available mid summer. Compared to the existing 11-42 XT Cassette, this newly announced model will offer 9.5% more range. According to the press release, the CS-M800 cassette will be compatible with both XTR M9000 and Deore XT M8000 drivetrains and has a target weight of 450g.
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| The DCE tooth profile is designed to provide “superior chain retention, lower driving noise and increased durability.” (click to enlarge) |
Shimano also announced new XTR (SM-CRM91) and Deore XT (SM-CRM81) level chainrings which will utilize their Dynamic Chain Engagement (DCE) tooth profile. The XT version will use steel plated teeth for greater durability, while the XTR model has strengthened aluminum teeth for reduced weight.
To bring everything together, the Japanese company has also announced a tool-free quick link (SM-CN900-11), which is compatible with all of their 11-speed chains. If you prefer to not dirty your hands, Shimano recommends using their TL-CT10 cable cutter, although my assumption is the Park Tools Master Link Pliers (MLP 1.2) will also work for quick installation and removal.
For those still clinging to front derailleur technology, Shimano has released new lower geared combinations for 2×11 and 3×10 cranksets. The DYNA-SIS 11 FC-MT700 will now ship with a 34-24T, while the 3×10 MT500 receives a 40-30-22T.
The 2×11 crankset features Hollowtech II crank arms (click to enlarge).
And finally, there are two new hydraulic disc brake models that will be slotting in just below the entry level Acera groupset. The M365 and M315 will share technology from their higher end models, but the M365 ships with a lighter aluminum lever. To accompany these new models will be a new center lock disc brake rotor (Sm-RT10) which will be available in either 160mm or 180mm diameters and will require the Shimano TL-FC36 or TL-LR11 tool for installation.
The new additions to Shimano’s brake and rotor product line (left) will help bring their well regarded hydraulic technology to even lower price points. The new Shimano quick link (right) will be compatible will all of their existing 11-speed chains (click to enlarge).
These components will be available for aftermarket purchase this summer. Pricing information has yet to be released.
For more information visit bike.shimano.com.
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