Updated: December 01, 2021
If a few days ago we were talking about Shimano groups for road cycling, today we have to do the same with Shimano MTB Groupset. A perfect guide to finishing convincing all those cyclists who are undecided before making a decision.
Shimano Altus, Acera, XT, Deore, XTR… what strange names, right? Well, we are going to try to be practical and to decipher all that technical hieroglyph.
Shimano MTB Groupsets
1- Shimano Altus M2000
We start with the lowest range of Shimano and in this case, the first group for MTB that we must analyze is the Shimano Altus. A very very basic group designed to equip the simplest bicycles on the market. Those bikes could be considered MTB but they are rather for a ride given their limited performance. The Shimano Altus is obviously very heavy but it is much better than other unknown brand groups that some brands use on their simpler bikes.
2- Shimano Acera M3000
Turn now for the Shimano Acera. A group that is also low-end but that already presents more reliability and finesse in all its gear. The Shimano Acera is made up of a fast and intuitive drivetrain.
A perfect combination for those looking for something more performance than the simplest model without having to excessively increase their budget. Many low-end bikes, including those sold in hypermarkets, come equipped with this group.
3- Shimano Alivio M4000
We close the low-end section with the Shimano Alivio. A group that on a personal level and analyzing its technical performance, I would practically dare to consider it mid-range. The only downside is the 9-speed gearbox.
An important purchase obstacle for cyclists looking for something more versatile and adapted to new market trends. The Shimano Alivio has a basic but functional operation and its low price makes it a good option to equip MTB bikes for a budget of less than 1000-1500 dollars.
4- Shimano Deore M6000
I would tell you that practically everyone has enjoyed a Shimano Deore at some time in their life. A best seller when it comes to mid-range bikes and a groupset for MTB that allows you to pedal relentlessly thanks to its excellent reliability.
In addition, the latest versions of the Shimano Deore have also significantly improved the aesthetic aspect so that for a very reasonable price you can have a functional product and that, unlike the other models of a similar range, it does not distort the image of the bicycle.
Shimano markets the Deore in different development options but they all have a common denominator. A value for money is very difficult to match.
5- Shimano SLX M7000
The Shimano SLX groupset is a super functional all-rounder that defines itself as an ideal MTB groupset for doing routes of all kinds. The Shimano SLX is not excessively light but it does stand out for its remarkable reliability.
A perfect option to enjoy a mid-range bike at a reasonable price. The perfect alternative for those looking for a good bike without losing all the savings.
6- Shimano XT M8100
We enter the section considered high-end with the Shimano XT. A group that has been in the market for many years and that thanks to its excellent quality enjoy enormous prestige among all fans of this sport. The Shimano XT is the equivalent of the Shimano Ultegra road.
A trusted group for all those cyclists who practice mountain biking regularly and seek lightness and safety. It is a product with more than proven durability and that is marketed in different 12-speed developments. The Shimano XT is life insurance that comes at a relatively affordable price.
7- Shimano XTR M9100
If in the road section Shimano has the Dura-Ace as the highest-end group in MTB, this privilege corresponds to the Shimano XTR.
A group that maximizes performance and that more than satisfies the expectations and requests of all those “professionalized” cyclists who seek mechanical excellence.
Obviously, to get a Shimano XTR requires a high budget but if you are one of those who have enough money, do not waste the opportunity.
As you will see later, Shimano offers the mechanical and electronic versions of the XTR. A product that has been improving version after version in the last twenty years and that in this latest model (M9100) has come to manufacture the best group for MTB in history.
Shimano MTB Electronic Groupsets
1- Shimano XT Di2
The electronic changes also arrived long ago and MTB Shimano XT Di2 is the most “economic” version for those you Riders seeking electronic MTB group. The product maintains intact the high performance of the mechanical Shimano XT so it can be considered as an improved version.
The use of electronic groups has generated considerable discrepancy in recent years. But the truth is that over time Shimano has been polishing the small details especially in the sections of reliability and durability.
2- Shimano XTR Di2
We might consider the group Shimano XTR Di2 as the best group for MTB of the moment and probably in history.
A product with all the advantages and benefits of the classic mechanical XTR that will delight all those cyclists who have the luck to ride it. A technological marvel that yes, is within the reach of very few.
