Contrary to Shimano directives, you can use a top normal rear derailleur with this setup - I have used XT and XT Shadow top normal derailleur's and they work fine. Shimano does not recommend it, why? The only caveat is you must have the derailleur cable retaining bolt very tight or you can pull cable because of the high shift leverage these units have. Low normal derailleur sucks - you rely on a spring to shift to lower gears. Where I ride, one wants low gears (you can downshift 3 gears at a time) QUICKLY on technical trails when a surprise switchback has a steep uphill hidden around the corner. A spring cannot do the job quickly enough. What will happen - I will let the "experts" tell you - very expensive and it hurts! Thanks to undeserved bad mouthing of the design by certain journalist, these units are very cheap on line - picked up my last complete backup set new in the box for $50.00. I have been using this setup for over 4 years with no problems in mud, rain, dust, you name it.

None

Great bang for the buck, durable and a pleasure to use.

Similar Products Used:

NA