XTR – THE NEXT GENERATION
It’s getting on for 10 months since we took our first look at the new 9100 series XTR (ASO 2018). The process of bringing these new parts to the market hasn't been straightforward, and Shimano suffered a number of setbacks along the way. Some parts, such as the unique Scylence rear hub and optional 11-speed cassette, have been delayed indefinitely. Most issues have revolved around the move from prototype stage to full-scale production, but new cranks were delayed by a fire that struck their surface treatment factory. It’s certainly been a rocky road. With all these issues now consigned to the past, we’ve been able to spend some proper trail-time on a full production-ready M9100 drivetrain.
XTR Recap
As it’s been a while since it was announced, let’s take a quick look back at what this new gear is all about. While they’ll still offer a 2X option with a unique single paddle mechanism, the M9100 is the first Shimano group that’s been designed from the ground up as a wide-range 1X system. Sure, Shimano offered 1X chainrings that could be paired with an 11-42 cassette when M9000 XTR was released in 2015, but their focus at the
