New SHIMANO XTR developed for XC and AM category

NUNSPEET, The Netherlands - In the development phase of the new XTR group, Shimano engineers and designers focused on a rider-tuned concept which means that the components have been engineered to match the needs and riding styles of individual mountain bikers.

This broadens the scope of XTR and makes not only usefull for both Cross Country (XC) racers and All Mountain (AM) riders.

“The new SHIMANO XTR offers a wide range of products in an attractive design that will raise the bar in mountain bike components and appeal to a wide variety of riders,” said Shimano’s PR officer Harald Troost. “The XTR components for XC will set a new benchmark in terms of a super lightweight design while offering a further improved smooth and effortless handling.”

According to Troost the dedicated All Mountain components have been developed with a hard core usage in mind, focusing on rigidity and extra brake power.

Highlight of the new group is the 10-speed Dyna-Sys drivetrain system with triple and double crankset options. Finally an 3 X 10 drivetrain will be available. Dyna-Sys, introduced earlier this year at DEORE XT and SLX level, offers a more stable drivetrain for any type of rider.

Further more Shimano is introducing a new cooling technology for disc brakes. Ice-Tec brake pads and rotors reduce heat build-up in the disc brake system. This in turn reduces fading, which assures a better braking performance even on long downhill stretches.

Troost: “It also results in longer pad life and substantially quieter braking. Ice-Tec brake pads have been provided with an aluminum radiator fin with a stainless steel two layer back plate structure. The rotors have an aluminum core sandwiched in stainless steel for improved heat dissipation.”

The new XTR also offers an integrated mount system for the brake lever and shift lever, named I-Spec. With this, only one clamp band is needed which saves space on the handlebar besides saving around 10g. Horizontal micro-adjustment is possible for a customized set-up.

Following the Rider Tuned concept, XTR will include two types of SPD pedals. One model has been developed for Cross Country usage focusing on a lightweight design. The other model is targeted to All Mountain riders, with a wider platform for an improved grip.

Also many wheel choices will be available for any kind of riding style from XC Racing to All Mountain.