It’s finally here! Through the benefits of trickle-down technology, Shimano is introducing an entire 1 x 12 Deore group for roughly the price of an XTR XC brakeset. The group will offer the same Hyperglide+ drivetrain performance, but does so with wallet friendly pricing – and likely impressive durability.
Unless you’re new to mountain biking, you are probably somewhat familiar with the Shimano 1×12 mountain bike groups. While they were a bit late to the party, it was worth the wait. XTR arrived first, followed by the impressive XT group. Now it’s Deore’s turn. All groups offer a 10-51t cassette option, just like you’ll find here with a dedicated 12 speed chain and front chainring.
More importantly, all of these 12 speed groups are completely interchangeable. Want to build a budget drivetrain but splurge on a few XTR or XT parts? Go for it. You could even run an XTR ring on a Deore crank if you wish.
That means when it’s time to replace wear items like the cassette, having less expensive options like the CS-M6100-12 will be quite welcomed. The Deore cassette uses the same Hyperglide+ shifting tech which provides lighting quick shifting under torque both up and down the cassette. However, the Deore cassette uses all steel cogs which will make it a bit heavier, but also should make it more durable. The cassette also uses Shimano’s Micro Spline freehub interface to mount to the same hubs as XT and XTR. The 10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28-33-39-45-51T cog progression provides the same 510% gear range as other massive Shimano cassettes.
The other end of the gearing equation is the FC-M6100 12 speed cranksets. These use the same direct mount standard as the other Shimano 12 speed cranksets, and include options for 30 or 32t Deore chainrings. Larger chainrings are available in either XT or XTR trim. The cranks also include multiple models for different chainline and rear axle spacing, and 170 + 175mm arm lengths. The two piece construction still uses the same BB-MT800 (and other variant) bottom bracket as Shimano XT.
And about those graphics – in a departure from the silver and black Shimano is known for, the Deore graphics feature color-shifting logos that change hue based on how you’re viewing them. Will this be the perfect match for all those new oil-slick components?
Just like the cassette, the CN-M6100 chain will likely be a popular replacement part in addition to a main component of the Deore group. The chain uses the same Hyperglide+ shift tech and includes a quick link for tool-free assembly.
Only right shifters are available given that this is a dedicated 1x group, and it offers Rapidfire Plus shifting with 2-way release. There’s also an optical gear display version, and models for I-SPEC EV mounting and band clamp mounting.
Out back, the RD-M6100-SGS rear derailleur moves the chain up and down the cassette. Fitted with 13t pulleys, the derailleur has an obvious 51t maximum cog size and is for 1x drivetrains only.
When it comes to slowing down, Deore includes one set of BL-M6100 brake levers for both the 2 piston and 4 piston brake calipers. The BR-M6100 is a two piston caliper while the BR-M6120 is a more powerful four piston caliper, both of which are compatible with Ice Tech brake pads.
There’s even a value priced hubset complete with Micro Spline freehub and Centerlock disc brake mounts. Notably, the MT410 hubs are the first for Shimano to use a radial cartridge bearing, and come in 142 and 148mm options.
Pricing
Now for the moment you’ve all been waiting for – pricing. As you would expect from Shimano Deore, the price point is very approachable with the entire drivetrain priced under $300. Add in a set of brakes, and you’re just under $600. Deore M6100 series components are also available immediately, which is also very good news from Shimano.
Stay tuned for more including Shimano’s new 10 & 11 speed Deore groups, actual weights of the 12 speed groups, and more!
