Shimano XT Di2 opens up the electronic-shifting frontier

Shimano’s XTR Di2 group really, really impressed our testers with its performance, but the price is incredibly high. If you’re tempted by the possibilities of an electronically-controlled mountain bike drivetrain but weary of the steep cost of admission, the recently unveiled XT Di2 kit might be the group you’ve been waiting for.

In addition to lowering the price point, Shimano focused on refining ergonomics, improving durability, making the group “smarter” and adding some wireless functionality. If XT Di2 lives up to Shimano’s claims, there will be a lot to like about this group when it becomes available in September.

• Buyer’s guide to mountain bike groupsets

Deore XT SW-M8050 Firebolt shifters

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The XT-level Di2 shifters have been tweaked from the top-tier XTR version. The size of the rotary shift paddles has been increased slightly, the stroke is slightly shorter, with a single click, and they offer adjustable positioning to suit rider preference.

Shimano’s mountain bike product manager, Matt Robertson, was quick to tout the benefits of electronic shifters over the mechanical versions.

“We can choose exactly the spring rate and lever feel we want. We don’t have to worry about clutch force or cable pull,” Robertson said.

Deore XT Di2 FD-M8070 front derailleur

Deore XT RD-M8050-GS Di2 Shimano Shadow RD+ rear derailleur 


SC-MT800 system information display

XT Di2 weight comparisons

You can read more at BikeRadar.com