Shimano has come out swinging with an entirely new lineup of Deore components for those who value durable and reliable components at an accessible price. With the launch, we see an introduction of multiple new derailleurs, cassettes, shifters, cranks and brakes.
Deore M7200/M6200 Mechanical Drivetrain
This new Deore drivetrain matches the sleek, black and grey look of the Deore Di2 version, but in a tried-and-true, robust, and mechanical package. Similar to the Di2 design, the new derailleurs feature a low profile, wedge shape stabilizer design to avoid catching rocks and helping it bounce back into position quickly to be ready for the next shift. To ensure durability, the body has a wide and well-braced linkage with solid pulleys. Shimano has incorporated its their new Shadow ES chain stabilizing technology which uses dual springs to maximize chain retention and wrap. They have also created offerings for those who want fast shifting under load with Hyperglide+, and those who want maximum durability and smoothness with Linkglide.
Hyperglide+ is available in two 12-speed long-cage versions, while Linkglide is only offered in an 11-speed one. The primary HG+ (RD-M7200) and LG (RD-M7230) derailleurs feature the previously mentioned tech, while the second HG+ derailleur (RD-M6200) is a lower cost option and utilizes Shimano’s Shadow+ RD technology. This one doesn’t have the same solid pulley design or slim profile as the higher priced offerings but could still be a great choice for those who want fast shifting and a proven clutch stabilizer for keeping tension on the chain.
Two different 12-speed, 10-51t cassettes are available within the new Deore lineup. Both use Micro Spline mounting for the freehub, deliver robust and fast shifting abilities, and use steel cogs. The largest cog on the higher-priced CS-M7200-12 is constructed of alloy to save weight, while the CS-M6200-12’s largest cog is steel. With this option, what you lose in weight saving, you gain back with durability.
Shimano has improved the ergonomics of their new Deore shifter with a shorter stroke, crisp activation, and a straight path that compliments the natural path of the human hand for naturally engaging shifts. Multiple shifters are available to suit different bikes and drivetrains. For those using Hyperglide+ systems, two available options both include Shimano’s Rapidfire Plus and 2-Way Release, but the SL-M6200, the standard option for analog bikes, allows for shifting up to 3 times with the main lever while the SL-M6210 is designed with high-torque eMTBs in mind and allows for single shifts only to protect the cassette. Both options are compatible with older 12-speed Shimano drivetrains as well. The third shifter option is the SL-M6230 which is designed for use with 11-speed Linkglide setups. It works with older 11-speed drivetrains as well and is capable of up to two shifts at a time with the main lever.
Shimano has also launched a new FC-M6200 Deore crankset. This two-piece crankset has a 24mm steel axle, direct-mount chainring, and a standard 176mm Q-factor. Its chainring uses Dynamic Chain Engagement technology to improve durability, efficiency, and chain retention. Crankarms are available in 165mm, 170mm, and 175mm lengths, and steel chainrings are available in 30t and 32t options.
Price: $100 (crankset), $65-$100 (rear derailleur), $140-$180 (cassette), $30 (shifter)
Deore Brakes
Shimano has used technology developed at the XTR and Deore XT levels to update the Deore brakes with a new and improved master cylinder and two caliper options. On the BL-M6200 master, the lever has been updated to feature Shimano’s Servo Wave track for faster pad engagement and controlled power ramp-up. This lever is compatible with both of the new Deore caliper options. The first option is the BR-M6220 which is a four-piston caliper designed for trail and enduro use, while the BR-M6200 is a lighter-weight two-piston XC caliper. This system has improved internal seals and uses Shimano’s low-viscosity mineral oil for consistent and reliable braking throughout a wide range of temperatures.
Price: $120-$160 (Lever and Caliper)
For more information on the new Deore component lineup: www.ride.shimano.com