Shimano announced a host of new mountain bike goodies, including updated entry-level components, new replacement-level 12-speed wheels and hubs, a value 4-piston hydraulic braking system, and a new hydraulic Alfine braking system for urban riders. The technology trickle-down continues – in a big way.
Shimano Acera, Altus, and Tourney value MTB components
While we don’t cover a lot of the entry-level market, Shimano has been busy trickling down some great technology to lower price points. They did a major overhaul just last year, and now they’re at it again with more refinements.
The latest Altus and Shimano-branded Rapidfire Plus shifters are now available for 2/3×9 and 2/3×7/8 speed, respectively. Both of the new shifters are said to have light shifting action and streamlined optical gear display under the bar. In addition, a new entry EZ Fire Plus shifter is available with 2×7 gearing and even hydraulic disc brakes.
There are also two new top-swing front derailleurs for Altus and Acera level, engineered for large tire clearance. They’re also said to deliver more consistent shifting thanks to a speacial Hyperdrive design with one spec for 48.8mm and 51.8mm chainlines. Acera also gets the Hyperglide FD-T300-2-TS3 front derailleur with 16t capacity, while Tourney gets a new 2×8/7-speed front derailleur, dubbed FD-TY710-2-TS3.
In the crankset department, there are two new entry-priced Hyperdrive double chainring cranks with 36-22t ring sizes. For fitness and urban riders, there are two new price point cranks with 46-30t chainrings.
Shimano value 12-speed MTB replacement wheels and hubs
Options for price-point Microspline-compatible wheels have been very slim since the introduction of 12-speed XTR, but that changes now. Available in 27.5″ and 29″ sizes, the new wheels feature Boost spacing and compatibility with 10t small cogs.
WH-MT500-CL
• 24H J-bend spokes
• O.L.D.: 148 mm
• MSRP $174.99
WH-MT620-TL
• 24H J-bend spokes
• O.L.D.: 110/15mm; 12x148mm
• 30mm inner rim width
• MSRP $245.99
In addition, there are 12-speed FH-MT510 Microspline hubs with 12mm E-thru Boost axles, in 32 & 36 spoke count options. Or, if your bike has quick release skewers, FH-MT500 hubs can be had in 32 & 36 spoke counts.
4-piston value MTB + Alfine hydraulic disc brakes
If you need to stop quickly on a budget, Shimany just expanded its 4-piston hydraulic design to entry level, with the new BR-MT420. With a claimed 20% increase in braking power and 150% better pad wear resistance compared to the older BR-MT400, it’s a big step up in performance. It’s intended to be paired with the new BL-MT400-3A hydraulic lever with 3-finger specific design.
Urban riders can enjoy the new Alfine BL-S7000 and BR-S7000 hydraulic brakes with a 3-finger design and reduced price point – in silver or black.
Most of the new component introductions will realistically only be sold as replacement parts or as OEM bike spec, but we’re glad to see legitimate technology travel far down the price range. To learn more, check out Shimano at the link below.
