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Submitted by
Philipp Haerta
a Downhiller
from Berlin, Germany
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | 1998 | | Strengths: | Super Design! It Works OK. It's old. | | Weaknesses: | Looks immortal but i damaged it! | | Similar Products Used: | SRAM ESP 9.0 | | Bike Setup: | Chaka Al600 Frame, Votec GS4 Fork, Magura HS44 Gustav M & HS33 Race Line Brakes, ESP 9.0, Race Face... | | Bottom Line: | Its 7 Years ago since my first posting. :-) | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robertani
a Cross Country Rider
from Canberra
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Light Good Hubs, Smooth Shifting | | Weaknesses: | Brakes develop slop, cranks wear out | | Similar Products Used: | STX, XT, Race face | | Bike Setup: | play Bike: ATX 990 Full suspension 96 XTR Z1. race bike ATX 890 hayes, SX-R | | Bottom Line: | O.K Im reviewing the original 96 groupo here- a bit of a waste of time I guess but you can still buy some of the components. An interesting obsevation: the original components had the designation M-950. Now every component except the hubs has been remodeled- i.e the new brakes are M-951. Guess what- on my bike the hubs are the only component which have lasted. Shimano basically released a crap component group in 96 but has changed it over the years and I guess the group as it stands in 2000 might be O.K. I bought the hype in 96. My biggest beef was with the bottom bracket/crank interface- the pawls on the M-950 bottom bracket were tiny and only went half way into the spline of the crank- the spline eventually wore out and now Im riding with race face. The front derailler sheared off, the brakes are way sloppy (new ones have beefier linkage), the front shifter broke- it has plastic inside and plastic pawls on the indents, and the rear deralleier developed side play- the new one has a different bushing at the dropout mount.
Bottom Line: If you have lotsa money XTR is O.K as you can buy a new set when it wears out, and initially it does function like a dream- I guess the 2000 line up might also be more durable than the 96. But as this catergory is for the 96 group then my rating is- | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G-man
a Weekend Warrior
from Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: July 6, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Lost Lake, Vail CO | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Light
Durable
Low maintenence
| | Weaknesses: | Price | | Similar Products Used: | XTR 8Spd, XT & LX 9Spd, Bontrager Race Lite, Icon Sterling | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR Groupo, Steel frame, Sid, Ceramic Rims | | Bottom Line: | You get what you pay for. The best shifting, hands down, shifts with the front der climbing! Best V-Brakes, levers are smooth, brakes have bearings not bushings... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: January 14, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | nice brakes and levers | | Weaknesses: | 9-speed drivetrain -- weak chain, more positions that rub, clogs more easily. | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano XT 7-speed, Shimano XT 8-speed, Suntour 7-speed | | Bike Setup: | Moots YBBeat | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is that 9-speed sucks. I'm snapping chains left and right, I have more gear combinations where the chain is rubbing the front derailleur, and the drivetrain clogs up more often in muddy conditions. How is this supposed to be "better" for us riders? Sure, shifting is smooth, but what good is that if other parts of the drive train are rubbing and snapping?
On the positive side, I really like the brakes and levers. That and the fact that I was able to get a good group price swayed me to buy the XTR grouppo. In hindsight, I really wish I had listened to the other negative reviews and gone with a non-Shimano for my drivetrain.
And in case you think that we'll see the end of this stupid behavior on Shimano's part, think again. According to the Dec99 issue of "Dirt Rag", Shimano has been awared two patents for a 14-speed (!!) drive train. The patent numbers are 5954604 and 5921881, and you can read them at http://164.195.100.11/netahtml/srchnum.htm (the US Patent Office search engine).
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TJW
a Racer
from Mpls MN
Date Reviewed: November 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Many | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Stiffness of cranks, rings
Shifting performance
Light
Durability
Wide range of gears | | Weaknesses: |
Interchange of non group parts is difficult and effects performance
Chain wears quickly in 9 sp setup
Expensive upgrade as a system | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano - Many
Race Face cranks, rings
Specialized cranks
Grip shift - Many | | Bike Setup: |
Spec. FSR XC Comp
XTR shift group
Avid brake/Lever | | Bottom Line: | I have raced with many groups and set ups over the last 2 decades. The XTR groupset is the best shifting performance available. I have used the 9 sp system for the last 6 months and I am pleased with every aspect of performance. The drive system demands to be cleaned and lubed often - after every muddy or dusty condition ride/race. I disagree with the idea that the XTR is an expensive casual group. The XTR is an expensive race bred system. It's broad based popularity is a reflection of the willingness of off road fanatics of any skill level to pay for high performance stuff - go for it. If you are looking for the best shifting race group and price is not an issue, the XTR fits the bill. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee Lau
a Racer
from North Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: October 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Various | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
- Mega Range allows you to not shift off the middle ring for inordinate amount of time
- light weight
- good resale value | | Weaknesses: |
- Subsceptibility of chain to breakage when torquing under load
- Mis-shifts in muddy conditions
- Quick chain wear
- Tendency for chain to slip from middle to granny when bike is jarred or portaged. | | Similar Products Used: |
1998 XT
1998 Grip Shift SRAM ESP 9.0, 1997 XT, 1997 LX | | Bike Setup: |
Norco Team Issue - OEM with XTR Mega Range 9 speed drivetrain except for Race Face chainrings | | Bottom Line: | Review is for 1999 XTR Mega Range drivetrain. Chain rings are Race Face 9 speed.Experiences are for racing Snr Expert in BC Cup and local BC races in Pacific NW. Shared experiences with some training partners racing Mens and Womens Expert and Pro.Part of my frustration is the countless - oh but 9 speed is great without stating under what conditions 9 speed is used. I'm reluctant to say Expert rider, ride harder, faster and longer than the rest of you and in mud blah, blah but, generally, for myself and many of my racing mates - that is the truth relative to the majority of posters.Most tests are conducted in relatively friendly climatic conditions and I suspect that these conditions lend themselves to good gear performance. Moreover, most tests are designed for the mean/average rider. Performance is acceptable and would merit 3 stars. However, given the price of the group, downgrade to 2 stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Knute Aberhanson
a Cross-Country Rider
from Folsom, CA
Date Reviewed: October 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
I'm not telling! | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Light weight, the new MEGA 9 works pretty well, I like the gray metal color... cool | | Weaknesses: |
Doesn't shift quite as well as last years XTR due to the WIDE range (and only one availible) 12-34 rear cogset.I like compact gearing, I wish they had that option...Make sure youo get the SGS (long cage) rear deraileur if you want to be able to cross chain the gears or you will accedentally rip your der. off! | | Similar Products Used: |
'98 XTR, XT, race face (good stuff too) | | Bike Setup: |
Ventana Fuego, full new XTR MEGA 9, '99 SID | | Bottom Line: | This new XTR MEGA 9 spd works OK but not as well as the standard set up like last years XTR. Why does Shimano think you need this wide range of gear ratios? I would put this gearing on an XT (more recreational) equipt bike. I NEVER use the 24 chainring with the 34 rear cog. (Not even in Moab on the slick rock trail) I just ordered a 5 arm spyder conversion and race face chainrings (32T and 44T) and I'm going to run, yes, only two chainrings up front. My buddy has been doing this for quite some time and the gearing is sufficiant for anything we ride... and yes we have STEEP and LONG hills around here too. Everything else is typical XTR... NICE! Great grouppo BUT stupid (no choice in the matter) gear ratios, so only 4 burnning turds... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Hewitt
a Racer
from Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Numeral Rock | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Most functional group of parts | | Weaknesses: |
Cost | | Similar Products Used: |
SRAM, LX, XT, Alivio!! (What I'm trying to say is pretty much everything.) | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 8000SL Crosslink Disc, Full XTR, SX Carbon | | Bottom Line: | If you read Shimano total information you would find their very logical explination to why Shimano XTR is not really compatible with everything else and that is that the XTR parts are made to work with nothing else but themselves. Basically those of you who want to complain about it feel free to but if maintained even a bit this group is the best one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff H.(bikeshop emp.)
a Weekend Warrior
from Sioux Falls,So.Dak.
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Southmountain,Pheonix-Vail,Co.area! | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
Simply the BEST components ever! | | Weaknesses: |
Price!Price!OUCH!Nothing else. | | Similar Products Used: |
XT components on all my bikes.I didn't think it got any better.WRONG! | | Bike Setup: |
GT STS CARBON full suspension -GT BACKWOODS-MONGOOSE IBOC COMP-SCHWINN FACTORY HOMEGROWN-GT OUTPOST-BIANCI roady !ROCKSHOX! | | Bottom Line: | I just ordered all XTR components today! To go with my new year2000 GT ZASKAR LE TEAM frame,I just ordered also today!My god I got a massive boner just thinking about it!I'll let you know how it ends. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aggie John
a Racer
from College Station, TX
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Light, strong, exceptional shifting, looks great. | | Weaknesses: |
The XTR crankset decal. | | Similar Products Used: |
XT w/ Raceface crankset. | | Bike Setup: |
Klein Attitude Pro. | | Bottom Line: | No matter what a couple of these losers say, Shimano makes the best components on the market. Foremost of these is the XTR gruppo. Simply the best shifting, braking, stiffest and lightest for any price. Has never failed me in a race. Have you ever noticed that when the losers start ragging on Shimano, they NEVER have anything intelligent to say and have to mention that the trendy product of the moment that they just bought is so much better than Shimano. Too bad their brains are filled with crap instead of brains. I guess they are still in high school mode and think that you have to be different to be cool. Have a good ride!GIG 'EM Aggies! 1999 Big XII Champs in Football and Baseball! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Eager
a Racer
from Salisbury, NC
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Umbstead park | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Absolutely none | | Weaknesses: |
Heavy, ugly, never shifts correctly
I am always loosing races because of these inferior components
Shimano please fix this component group | | Similar Products Used: |
Everything out there baby! | | Bike Setup: |
Pee-Wee Herman special | | Bottom Line: | I would not recommend this product to anyone intending to use it in races
Buy the much superior Shimano Tourney components - they rock!
What the hell is the point of reviewing the xtr component line?! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Fitterer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ithaca, NY
Date Reviewed: April 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Shindagin | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Light, beautiful, good gear ratios | | Weaknesses: |
rear cogs easy to bend. Doesn't work well when it gets dirty. | | Similar Products Used: |
XT | | Bike Setup: |
Sola Seven | | Bottom Line: | Great looking and I love having 9 speeds to chose. When I get it dirty or muddy performance really drops. Bent the 3rd cog in the rear cluster during a ride. Must have been a stick because I never felt like I really torqued up. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross-Country Rider
from Brooklyn, NY
Date Reviewed: April 16, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Great components.
It's simple, they work! Silently, smoothly, quickly. AND they're LIGHT! | | Weaknesses: |
None | | Similar Products Used: |
XT Group | | Bike Setup: |
Rhygin Juke SS Frame, Full XTR, '97 Judy SL, King Headset, Cane Creek WAMs, Moxey Suspension Post, Time ATAC Pedals, KORE Elite Stem, Titec 118 bars, WTB SST Seat… | | Bottom Line: | I have a a '97 goup with a'98 Rapid-Rise Rear Derailleur. I upgraded from an XT group and was astounded by the improvement. I ride through mud, sand, dirt and city streets (NYC streets are a bit like riding off-road) and have had nothing but flawless performance. The Rapid-Rise Derailleur is a treat to use! The cranks are stiff. Both derailleuers WORK! The brakes are excellent. Shifting is Quick and Precise.Keep it all clean and lubricated and you'll have perfect performance.Definately worth the price! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shawn
a Cross-Country Rider
from spartanburg sc
Date Reviewed: April 16, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
light weight, smooooooth like butta | | Bike Setup: |
schwinn homegrown factory team | | Bottom Line: | if you rate this stuff less than four chilis, you probably don't own it. Flawless performance in all conditions, even the 9-speed that I have. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Win
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Any | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Shiftters, derailleurs, brakes, hubs, cassette | | Weaknesses: |
BB, brake levers, cranks | | Similar Products Used: |
'89 Shimano Deore II, '92 Shimano Deore XT, '99 Shimano Deore LX | | Bike Setup: |
'98 Merlin XLM w/ '98 Rockshox Judy SL | | Bottom Line: | The absolute best shifting. No other group comes close. It's worth it to get XT or XTR instead of LX for the shifters alone, which have quicker action and much shorter travel. The quality of the other components is also superb. The V-brakes are great. The hubs and cassette are light and strong.The only gripes I have are minor: (1.) The cost is still brutal. (2.) I love the brake levers (I think only Avid makes better brake levers than Shimano) but they're too damned short. It's hard to get 2 fingers on them. I know they're supposed to be 1-finger levers, but it pisses me off that Shimano is not giving people a choice. I still think better than 90% of bikers like to use 2 fingers. I have relatively skinny fingers. Someone with big hands could really get to hate these levers. (3.) The BB is great, but you're forced to use Shimano's cranks. Come to think of it, the splined spindle and 4-arm cranks are really good ideas and are already starting to become standards. I have to admit that many of Shimano's innovations become standards, not because of the company's dominance in the component market, but because they do work better. (4.) In an earlier review, someone else mentioned how the finish on the cranks can wear away relatively easily. (5.) I wish the shifters had more adjustability. I like my brake levers angled down somewhat and this causes the shifters to be positioned too close to my thumbs.Like I said, all my gripes are minor. I consider 5 flames to mean perfection, so I score the XTR group a 4, but that doesn't mean I don't consider it to be the best group out there by far. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a cross-country rider
from Pleasanton, CA USA
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased the 98 XTR 9-speed Rapid Rise rear der. and shifter pod. I havent had a single problem with them. I enjoy the fact that both my shifters work in the same direction. The large throw from just a single push of my thump is worth the extra cost alone.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Schneider
a racer
from Trinidad Ca
Date Reviewed: January 27, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought an xtr front derailer, becoase it was the only derailer that would let me run a 52 tooth chainring that alone is anuff to be worth the price the awsome smooth shifting it only a bonus a very nice bonus, I now kick ass down hill and I can still climb up its awsome five stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daryl
a racer
from usa
Date Reviewed: January 22, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I hate the XTR grouppo. It is overly expensive and I would much rather mess up an LX component than XTR. And if any body tries to say that they don't f*** up their XTR then they don't ride. If i could i would give it minus stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mario
a weekend warrior
from Boston Ma
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just bought a bunch of xtr stuff cheap from Jenson USA . They set me up with all xtr, excluding crankset, but including mavic 517 wheels for $680. Dropped 7 lbs off my Giant DS2 Warp. Works so much better then the stx standard stuff that came on my bike.
Can pull the front wheel to get over logs so much better . Probably because each wheel is a whole pound lighter! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: October 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is definitely the best grouppo available out there. Just bought a Voodoo with full XTR and the bike rocks. The shifting is smooth and precise, the hubs spins silky smooth. It is tons better than the LX/XT I was using on my old GT. Buy it if you can afford it. Worth all the investment. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Conley
a weekend warrior
from Manchester NH USA
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
When I bought my 98 Stumpjumper Comp, the dealer said you know this shifts backwards, it has the reverse spring. Well I nodded acknowlegement but since this is my first bike with shifting (I'm 55; we bought one for my wife also) I didn't know what he meant. Well, I like the Rapid Rise concept so well, I installed the XTR-951 on our Burley Rhumba Tandem for the downshifting ease. To me it just seems natural and hopefully we'll have a choice. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a racer
from Springfield, MO
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I can not wait until I get this grouppo. It is by far the best component grouppo I have ever seen in my life. (And also the most expesive I have ever seen!) But who cares, it's still the best. I am still trying to save up for it. I am almost there though. If you would like to e-mail me to talk about it please do. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a racer
from Springfield, MO
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the best componnent group I have ever seen in my entier life. (It's also the most expensive I've ever seen too!) But who cares, it's still the best. I am trying to save up for it. If anybody wants to email me to talk about it please do. Because I have noyhing better to do with my time. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ivan Arles Marin Lopez
a cross-country rider
from Guayaquil, Ecuador
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Este grupo es un excelente producto, super liviano y eficiente, pero demasiado delicado para mi gusto y mi bolsillo. Si a las partes roscadas se les aplica un torque un poco mas de la cuenta, estas terminan rompiendose. Esto me ocurrio con las tuercas de los Platos, y la tuerca de los frenos. Total toca que reemplazarlos. Pienso que las roscas deberian llevar cierto tratamiento termico, para mejorar su dureza y evitar torpes como Yo. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Norman
a racer
from Vnacouver, BC
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got the Full gruppo with my new bike, an Ibis Alibi, which just rocks. Overall, the gruppo works really well,its lightweight, shifts smoothly, almost no friction from any of the parts and great braking. However, I do have some minor complaints, first of all, the grey paint on the cranks wore off after one ride, really annoying considiring this is suppose to be top of the line. Also, the brakes tend to fade on long descents, I think that it the pads and I'm gonna try the WTB dual compounds. Overall this gruppo is great.. 4 chilis cause it ain't perfect... yet. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Ligus
a cross-country rider
from Cornwall ON Canada
Date Reviewed: July 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought an XTR wheelset with Mavic X517 rims. The axle's are titanium, and the weight is nothing. I would recomened these to any one who is thinking of up-grading. I plan to outfit my bike with full XTR, I have XT shifters and brake levers, I like it better because I can see what gear I'm in.
There's no dought that XTR is the best componets out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Walker
a racer
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I don't know how anyone can complain about this set of parts. I think if you complain about this groupo you don't know how to maintain your bike. I have 2 bikes that are xtr one bike is a 95 and one that is a 98. The 95 parts are still working great thanks to very good upkeep. Everything works flawlessly in my opinion, is all you have to do is maintain the parts. If you follow that rule I promise that this set of parts will be your favourite by far over any other set of parts you can buy! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hakim
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: March 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a ´97 Zaskar LE, equipped with the new XTR. The link between bottom bracket an cranks squeals, but the advantage is, that no bell is needed. It had been replaced two times since i bought the bike and now it´s lock-titend, but is still squealing. The front derailleur is far to complex and flexy and doesn´t shift any better than his XT-pendant. Excellent parts are hubs, brakes and levers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tristan King
a downhiller
from Timaru,New Zealand
Date Reviewed: March 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The XTR is the best conpontery that is about on my trek Y-33 that I upgraded to.
This is the best investmint after mt bike and the Z-1 bommers. There is no
comparason betwen XT and XTR it ROCKS!!!!!! I am a bit of a rough rider and have
gone through 1 whole XT groupset but now with XTR I have not rooted any of it.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Warren Sy
a racer
from Phillippines
Date Reviewed: March 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this second-hand HUFFY at a garage sale and couldnt believe just how fun mountain biking could be. Two weeks later, I upgraded to full XTR components on mt bike. The difference was unbelievable. I lost almost two pounds and now have a sub-35 pound bike.My HUFFY just took off! Highly recommended. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ioan Bonneville
a downhiller
from Montreal,Quebec
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a GT STS-1 and I love the drivetrain. It shift wonderfully and it is troublefree.
The only problem I see is the cost of the components when you break it.
The V-brakes do an excellent jobe for downhill. I never try XTR hubs because I bought Spin wheelsets
when I bought my bike but I'm certain it does an excellent joke as well!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chuck
a cross-country rider
from CA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
As a group nothing can beat it. Sure there might be those who prefer
the characteristics of other brand's items w/in the group, but as the whole enchilada, XTR is it. Quality, weight, dependability, looks, PERFORMANCE!!!
No need for extra chi-chi parts (which are gonna break anyway;-)
with this beautious group of mouth watering components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Lyksett
a racer
from Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Date Reviewed: February 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I race Sport catagory Cross Country and have been using XT components for the last two years....I just upgraded to XTR and also got the remote ! IF YOU RACE THEN YOU NEED THE REMOTE! this is a dream piece of equipment ! This should be compared to the paper clip ie; ...how did we live without it in the past... It shifts soooo smooth and WITHOUT any drag or pull-NONE ! Even if you have older XTR check and see if your shifters can up grade with the adapter package ! DO IT NOW !! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a cross-country rider
from Italy
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the best thing going in my opinion, it is currently going for around 1200.00 and if you cant afford all of that try peicing it together, XTR is extremely light and well worth the money IF you are in the market for a high end set of components! it might not make you a better rider but it will definitly lighten your bike which can mean the difference between first and fourth place at a race. and the components are practically bomb proof. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sverre Petlund
a
from Oslo, Norway
Date Reviewed: December 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
finally pedalling an XTR group, after upgrading from LS through XT components on different bikes. Got the impression that all drivetrains work well. You pay for the weight reduction, and shifts are also quick and smoother on XTR, still can the 500 g off really compensate for the price level of these cool moulds (a cost of $3,2 pr.g saved)?
Awesome look, yes, but the finish does not stand wearing and tearing in the bush like the silver chromed XT/LS did.
Shimano's first name is precision and therefore, except no substitute. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a cross-country rider
from Boulder
Date Reviewed: December 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I lost the little crank extractor bolts for my XTR crank just riding around. I bought new ones ($16) and lock tighted them in. When ever I pedal hard, my P.O.S. XTR bottom bracket squeals. I've had it rebuilt twice, and no one has any idea what is causing the horrendous squeal. XTR is light though. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony
a racer
from Boston
Date Reviewed: November 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
What can be said? Shimano is the best, regardless of what anyone says. Only the best form the best, for a price that will burn a hole in your pocket. I race downhill and x-country, and have XTR on both. I guess you can call me lucky, but I would call me poor. They are light and work flawlessly. If you are in doubt, get XTR. You can't lose. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jens & Sven
a racer
from Germany
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
One of the best component groups on the market. When you have the money then buy a XTR, the best fun when you riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BRAD
a cross-country rider
from ERIE, MI.
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I BOUGHT A GIANT CADEX IN JAN. 1993 WITH THE FULL XTR COMPONENT GROUP. THE STORE SALESMAN SAID IT WAS THE BEST AND HE WAS RIGHT. THEN AND NOW.
I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE GROUP THAT I DIDN'T CAUSE WITH A CRASH, AND ONLY THEN THE FRONT DER. HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO BENDING.
IT'S GOOD TO KNOW THE PRODUCT REVIEWS BY RIDERS ARE STILL FAVORABLE. I JUST HAD TEFLON CABLES INSTALLED, BUT ONLY FOR PREVENTATIVE MAINT. AND THE XTR SHIFTS SO SMOOTH IT'S ALMOST INSANE. AS OTHERS HAVE SAID, YOU NEVER MISS A SHIFT AND THE COMPONENTS WORK PERFECT EVERY TIME.
AS FAR AS THE NEW GROUPS HAVING V-BRAKES, I DON'T FEEL THAT IS NESC. DUE TO GREAT STOPPING PERFORMANCE WITH OLD STYLE. IF YOU HAVE TO STOP ANY FASTER YOU ALREADY HIT THE TREE.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Albert
a cross-country rider
from Lennoxville, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Have the whole XTR group except for the hubs (TNT HDS) and the brakes (Avid Tri-align 2) and I think that if you can afford it why not get the best. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ferry van der Veen
a weekend warrior
from Warmond, the Netherlands
Date Reviewed: September 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been using XTR in combination with ESP 9.0 shifters and rear deraileur and Magura raceline D brakes. I've got no regreds buying Magura instead of XTR brakes because the XTR brakes need lots of maintenance and the Magura need nothing at all. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Albert Tuertscher
a cross-country rider
from Austria
Date Reviewed: September 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I am riding XTR for one year now, and it works, works, works. I never missed a single shift - which was the case frequently with my ancient XT set. The stuff is incredible light - I got the chance to have everything in my hands before it was mounted to the bike! You have to feel it to believe it! And it looks awesome cool. Sure the best stuff you will get on this planet! If you can afford it, go for it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M.R.
a cross-country rider
from Portland, Oregon USA
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I Have The 97' XTR Group On My Litespeed Obed. (Sans The Shifters, Which Are
Grip-Shift SRT 800's-I Figured I Would Give It A Shot.) Anyways XTR Is The Best
Anyway You Look At It. It's Built The Best And Is Almost As Light As A Paul
Derailleur Setup And Functions About 100% Smoother! I Just Wouldnt Trade It For Anything. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a racer
from Detroit, MI
Date Reviewed: May 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
XTR Rules. The stuff just works. It's an aftermarket weenies nightmare! It's stronger, cheaper cooler looking and as light as cheezy annodized aftermarket crap! It does look sorta dirty unless you keep your bike spotless and I don't. See ya in my dust! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a racer
from Milwaukee, WI
Date Reviewed: May 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Works like a dream.
Lighter than anything out there (except for stupid-light parts).
Spare parts are readily available.
Looks cool.
More and better features than anything else.
Well worth the money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Walters
a racer
from Raleigh NC, USA
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
In my opinion XTR has the best drivetrain made. out of the grouppo the only things that I don't have are hubs I have White Industry. The only thing that schimano needs to correct on the line of XTR is 1. the hubs are not as good as they should be, don't get me wrong the XTR hubs are great hubs to have they just don't have the greatest rolling ratio that some of the other top of the line hubs have. That is why I bought white industry. 2. On the cranks the letters XTR rub off after about a week to two weeks, they sould have laser cut the XTR letters into the crank. I love XTR and would never use much else. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ping Chou
a cross-country rider
from Davis, CA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Amazing. Shifting is almost telepathic. The cranks are great. Stiff, light, cool looking, and the rings shift like its going out of style. Shimano makes the best chainrings on the planet bar none. XTR is expensive, but it is worth it. I have the XTR rear derailleur, rear cassette, and crankset. I couldn't afford the rest of the grouppo unfortunately. If you can afford it, get XTR. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TR Mayfield
a cross-country rider
from Seattle, WA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These parts work as well as one might expect, given the company and
the dollars involved.The shifting is very nice, though not noticeably
better really than previous efforts.The hubs are excellent, and well sealed.
The brakes work great, though durability is a major issue. I reccomend
going with a more straightforward design perhaps the original marinovative.
I must say that the crank especially, but overall the grey color is ugly
as sin, and when it easily scratches it looks like hell. The Dura Ace crank
is similar and is gorgeous it looks like Campy but the XTR is hideous
and wierd. It works though the funky chainring setup is of dubious value.
The bottom bracket concept is Magic Motorcycle excellent. Dump the ugly crank
though unless you are PURE functionality I am obviously not.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alastair White
a cross-country rider
from Brooklyn, NY USA
Date Reviewed: March 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the entire group except the hubs. There is nothing better than any of
it anywhere. Period. The cranks are great - The BB is what makes them awesome.
The derailleurs, especially front, shift better than anything.(Well the rear
shifts as well as my 95 XTR) The VBrakes are incredible. The SL/BL combo is great.
Myh only complaints are the Anodized cranks will be scuffed inevitably, The
brake pads wear quickly(but have been replaced with Kool Stop - GREAT!)
Everything works incredibly under all conditions, and take all the punishment you can dish out. And itall looks really great.The complaints about the chainrings.. nyah, 24/34/46 is what I want so OK!
You can get roughly the same performance from XT, But XTR is lighter, prettier,
and works more smoothly than XT.(or anything else.)
What are better cranx? NONE - maybe as good but not better!
Derailleurs? NOTHING!
Brakes? NOTHING! (keep your Maguras... the next step is Discs)
Hubs? There's nothing to complain about, but they're not amazing either!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a cross-country rider
from Ma
Date Reviewed: March 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I built a bike over the winter with all my favorite parts. Frames Due end of March. I'm looking for the Best price on the XTR crank an bottom bracket. An can you replace a chain ring after a season of riding or due gear changes? Any feedback or opinions would be great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David MacDonald
a cross-country rider
from Scotland
Date Reviewed: March 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Shimano XTR V-brake. I have had real problems running then with Avid V-chip levers. No matter what I do I still have a brake that is spongier than my dads crappy 200 GS setup from 6 years ago. I have always hated setting up brakes and these are a major pain in the arse, 1mm of distance between the pad and the rim even seems to cause massive movement in the lever. It might not be the brake itself but incompatibility with the lever, does anyone know? They look sexy as flock but I seem to be the only person who regrets hanging them on my bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Walters
a racer
from Raleigh N.C. Uninted States
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have absolutely enjoyed my XTR components. I have the V-brakes, rapid fire plus handles and shifters, and aerrailler. I wouldn't go any other way. I am trying to get the whole grouppo, because even though XTR aren't the lightest out there I think that shimano tests there components and makes them the elite. I think that XTR has the best drivechain period. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick Gessler
a cross-country rider
from mankato, MN
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a set of XTR shifter/lever set. I feel that they offer great performance, and a lot of flexibility in set up. They are very smooth and accurate, simple to use, and durable. I would recommend these to anyone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris snyder
a racer
from Pike Road, AL
Date Reviewed: February 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride 95 XTR and my wife has the whole 96 XTR gruppo. When conditions are good the new stuff works great. However when it gets wet and sloppy the 96 stuff really shows cracks in its armor literally. After a wet race this past fall the V-brakes had to be completely rebuilt. Very time consuming, They should of used sealed bearings. But even more irritating was the need for the shifter pods to completely taken apart and cleaned. After calling shimano who sayed it couldn't be done it was. I feel the 95's quality is better as far as durability goes. The 96 is signifigantly lighter and the brakes are better. This is only an opinion but I think the big S is going to come out with some super light discs in the very near future and the
v-brakes are just a stop gap until then. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan Krasno
a cross-country rider
from Orlando, FL
Date Reviewed: February 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
XTR is great. The front derailleur is by far the best in the world. As a former road toad, I never thought I'd say this, but, it is better than Campagnolo. The rest of the group is great also. The splined crankset eliminates that annoying creaking. I am 6'3, 210 lbs and I can ride these cranks forever, and never hear a creak.The brakes are great, but may not give a big improvement over XT for the cost difference. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a weekend warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: February 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Considering an upgrade ? Look no further, and no I don't have stock in Shimano ! I started with a stock Cannondale M800 mountain bike with LX, Alivio and Acera component mix. One upgrade after another and my bike is COMPLETELY outfitted with '96 XTR, except headset. It did cost a bit of cash, but it was worth it even for a weekend warrior. Very low maintenance, light, reliable and SWEEEEEET !!! If you take pride in your machine and enjoy the sport, go after it, dude. ** TIPS: 1) Don't forget to hide the credit card receipts from the old lady, and 2) when the cards are maxed out, there's always the kid's college money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Wackerman
a cross-country rider
from Mountain View California
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I found the shifting to be very accurate and the componants to be very light. I usually use White hubs but found the XTR hubs to be close in comparison.However, the area I found to be the weakest is the brake shoes.
They didn't last as long as average brake shoes. Overall a rather niffty package.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Lowe
a racer
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: October 17, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Cranks are nice but get the 5 bolt style so you can use whatever size chainrings you want (The 4 bolt is most common but you're stuck with what Shimano sends - no choices). Rear derailleur is a good as you'll ever need but the front is overly complex. Hubs are nice, lighter than most aftermarket hubs and cheaper as well. Save the $80 Ti/steel cassette for racing only. Chip just one tooth on just one cog and you have to replace the whole set. Very dumb design in terms of durability and really defeats the original purpose of a cassette hub. Otherwise the cassette is great for racing, very light indeed. Skip the headset, King headsets are almost the same price and are much better. Haven't used the brakes, shifters, or brake levers. The gears do shift very nicely with Shimano's 8 speed bar-end shifters, however (I've ridden drop bars ever since I injured my wrist - flat bars hurt after a while). My biggest gripe is the color. It looks great - for now but as is the case with most anodized parts after a few crashes and over time that gray will get scratched and worn (my shoe rubs the right crank and has already started rubbing off the gray) and look like crap. I wish they offered plain silver. Otherwise a good group, just as light as most of the aftermarket stuff but better engineered and researched.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trond Hindenes
a cross-country rider
from Bergen, Norway
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I`ve just spent i few hours with XTR rear der. and it shifts sweeter than my 96 XT does, its true. I tried it with a 96 XT rapid. This thing is PERFECT, period. The only negative thing is the price, of course
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Spellman
a cross-country rider
from Palm Springs, Caif.
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my XTR shifters and XT V-Brakes. I upgraded from the 94 XTR shifters and there's is a vast improvement..Stay with XT on everything else..
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Philippe Frenette
a racer
from Moncton, NB, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the shifters, v-brakes and derailleurs and I have had no problems with them; the shifting is sweet and the brakes are very powerfull. I raced all year with them and I had no problems. I had a little problem getting the gore-tex cables to go trew that little brake arch doo-dad for the v-brakes but with a few modifications now they work superb.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Goran Johnson
a cross-country rider
from Sweden
Date Reviewed: October 13, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought it for the looks, chopped a couple of teeth off the big wheel on the a rock on my second ride and had to replace the whole crank assembly. I did, but not with Shimano, but with Bullseye and White. At the same time I ripped the rest of the XTR gruppo off and replaced it with Proshift rear, Paul's front, and Magura D's. I am sick and tired of Shimano's there-is-a-sucker-born-every-minute-attitude. Sayonara!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan Pierce
a cross-country rider
from Marysville, PA
Date Reviewed: October 13, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Oh Yeah XTR!
I think the new style derrailuers are super fast and respond great.
The Crank desugn kinda makes me nervous the hollow and glued look.
I think the $$ is way to high but I give the big-S kudos for a great line
of rich racer componentry!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Hansen
a cross-country rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 9, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
It costs way too much, but it does work excellently. If you are looking for a much better value, stick with XT or even LX. They both perform very well.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a cross-country rider
from Seattle,WA
Date Reviewed: October 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
SACHS QUARZ:Shifters-possibly the best out there period.Derailleurs-even up with the best that XTR has to offer;very smooth,durable and with a nice polished finish.The cogs are great-shifting in the mud relative to other systems. The crank is just so-so, it doesn't measure up to the quality of the rest of the group. No brakes, headset, bottom bracket to the groupo. All in all killer stuff, I'm surprised there isn't a lot more being spec'd as OEM.
cellent,durable,smooth-at least as good as XTR and much prettier. The
hubs are completely tough although not super-light. The power-glide cogs are
great,especially in mud. The cranks are just ok, they don't measure up to the
to the rest of the group.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Hollenbach
a cross-country rider
from Shelburne, VT, USA
Date Reviewed: October 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have only seen the new '96 XTR stuff once on a bike in Vermont but it sure looks sweat. I have not riden on it yet but I have a '95 XTR/XT mix on my bike so I know how the old stuff works. It works super, I have never had any problem with my drive train. Shimano is great stuff: I love it.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Sautter
a cross-country rider
from Eugene, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the separate shifters and levers, and the v-brakes.
They replaced '93 XTR components. They work great! The shifter levers are positioned
different than the old RF+ levers, which I don't like, but they are much more precise.
The brakes are awesome! They are easy to set up, and the arms have no slop. They are easy to modulate and very powerful.
I like the adjustable leverage knobs on the levers, I can adjust the leverage depending on whether the ride is wet or dry.
XTR is the way to go.. Easy to set up, works the best, lasts forever.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a weekend warrior
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
A. XTR derailleur. Best shifting I have ever had in 5 years of riding.B. XTR derailleur. Too much money.C. B divided by A equals the reason we like free market economies and consumer choice.Up the hill, over the log, through the trees, nothing but net.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tigger
a cross-country rider
from Houston Texas
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I went all out after chasing my tail with GripShift this and that , (ex. 800's , bassworm , ESP 900's , ESP 9.0, Thing a ma jig, whatever, bigger spring) Finally solved all my ESP's problems (ESP =Erroding Sram's Profit, I hear these days), with the 3 other letters, XTR ..Bottom Line : Buy It , Go home , Stop Crying , Ride ,Ride , Ride !
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bobby Ryan
a weekend warrior
from Nevada City, California
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
It is awsome I have only used the V-Brakes and the rear derauiluer.I love them both!!!the V-Brakes grip great and stop you easily. However watch your power on the front brake on everything!!!The Rear derailuer needs little to no maintanence and shifts *VERY* smooth.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Endo 63
a cross-country rider
from Honolulu, Hawaii
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Have been using the derailleurs and brakes for 3 months now.Deraillers work great, even with Grip Shift. Installation was easyand only need a little tuning once in a while. Same goes for the V-Brakes.I am using the early Avid levers, and even though the braking is a littleabrupt for some, I have true one finger braking. My only complaint isthat both brakes and derailleurs foul easy on mud rides, the brakes come back quick, but the shifting really suffers.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mikko Kontiokorpi
a cross-country rider
from Kotka, Finland
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
XTR could be the better choice for a X-country-biker for it's morefunctional gear derailleurs, which doesn't give a upshifting shockeven when mistuned.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Duval
a cross-country rider
from Venice
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I am using the new XTR V brakes and they are awsome once they are set up properly. If not they squeel like hell. I question wether we need a new brake boss to realy solve that problem once and for all. The new front derailer is a little better for all its complexity, but if you want standard size chainrings as I do, you have no choice but to spend the money.A friend of mine has a Bianci with the full group, and wow is it a feather!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan Shapiro
a cross-country rider
from Ocean, New Jersey
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been using XTR brakes and drivetrain on my '96 Klein, and I absolutely love it. No problemswhatsoever, easy to tune and easy to clean. The brakes, unlike the XTversions, don't have any slop and are awesome. I recommend this gruppo to anyone who has the extra $$$.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Slip_Kid
a downhiller
from Mt. Tam, CA
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The XTR still sets the standard!. Great product for the price. The V-breakneeds to pull a ton of cable to work the break. You can't just change the break, you have to change the levers as well. Still, if you arebuying new, the XTR it is great line to use on your bike. Price shop! Retailers are terrible about pricing.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ean Darbo
a weekend warrior
from Chico, CA
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have not used them but judging from the specs and the looks I sure wouldLike to try them. However the price is insane. I have all STX componentson my Hookooekoo and will not upgrade until they break.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Murray Morris
a cross-country rider
from Woodinville, WA
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I only got the 96 XTR rear derailleur. I have to admit it shifts a bit better than my XT did, is better looking, and is lighter. However, for the extra money you pay for XTR, it might be worth going XT. I really wanted the 96 XTR front but it won't
fit on my full suspension Proflex so I had to stay with the XT. Really my only complaint about the rear is the cost. It shifts perfectly even in mud (although I am using GoreTex cables which helps).
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Philipp Haerta
a cross-country rider
from Berlin, Germany
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
XTR 96? I love it. I haven't a XTR, but I know that it is one
of the Best system. The parts are so beautiful! And the shifting
is good but I think the Magura HS22 Race Line 95 is better than the
V-Brakes.
I'm an only 16 years old amateur and I havn't got the Money to buy it.
But when the THUNDERBIRDS (my Team) are up on the List of the best,
I would take the XTR system with Raceline D brakes.
In my area you could drive very good cross-country. I've got a
Yukon Cracher with Alivio '96. The Alivio is bad. I want to buy the
XT'96 system this year but it is hard to get money.
If you want to write back: philw@berlin.snafu.de
Bye.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Hadwen
a cross-country rider
from Westboro, Ma
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just started using the whole setup, but even before I started
riding on it, I've already learned to hate the 4-bolt spyder.
First, you can't get a rock ring to fit it. Second, you are very
limited on the different chain rings you can use once you destroy
it from hitting too many rocks with out a rock ring.
I had to special order the 5 bolt.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron Kaufman
a cross-country rider
from Dix Hills, NY USA
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I've used the XTR grouppo for about two months now. With the exclusion of the Hubs, i currently use a pair of Spinergy Wheels which come with their own hubs. As far as the XTR hardware, I would have to say that it lives up to the hype. Not only did I
shave off more than a pound off my old grouppo, but the look and feel of the group have been phenomenol. Shifting is much smoother, the front and rear deraillur ensure smooth shifting with little or no slippage.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe West
a racer
from Sunnyvale, CA
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
My Y-33 has just been upgraded to the full XTR gruppo. It ha a smattering of XT and XTR parts, and this baby is now a swweet shiftin, quick stopping, no flexin, bad boy. It's good to know that my $1700 was really well spent,BUT, everyone should know
that XTR will NOT last as long as XT or even some LX components. Other wise, get sponsored, get XTR
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vernon Lee
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the XTR V's and on my first ride at them, I grabbed a handful of brake lever...
needless to say what would have happened if I had clipped in my pedals!!
These are really powerful brakes. nowdays, I use one finger to brake!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron S.
a downhiller
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
i recently bought the component set out of a local bike dealer. needless to say i rocked those bad boys so hard that i could have swore they were gonna budge on me. they held in there alot stronger than my original XT component set that i had on the
Dream Machine...
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pascal Pensa
a downhiller
from Basel, Switzerland
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I think it's quite tricky! But what the heck would you do when you want
some other custom made cranks or other brakes like Magura or so. The shit
about XTR '96 is, it's incompatible! But the rest looks cool and works
prefectly!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Santiago Rodriguez
a cross-country rider
from Boise, Idaho
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I had seen and test ride it ... What a fantastic gruppo. If you think
breaking with XT is sweet, wait until you try the XTR V-brakes. I can't
wait until next spring when I'm planning to upgrade my GT RTS with Shimano
XTR components.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Cease
a weekend warrior
from Tacoma, Wa
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
At a little over 300 Pounds I need equipment that can stand up to my Mass .... I had a hard time stopping untill I put the New V brakes on my Caloi Now I have stopping Power!!! It is nice to have a system that shifts NOW not shift? when? now? well
ok... Nice...
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tomodachi
a cross-country rider
from japan
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
expensive, expensive, expensive.......heard the shifting is awesome, but not much better than the ole standby xt.....Wouldn't mind having the derailluers, though......not a fan of having a groupo cost more than the frame/wheels, but to each his own...
..
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill K.
a cross-country rider
from North Augusta, South Carolina
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Excellent stuff. I have an XTR drivetrain & brakes, except for the front derailleur (Trek says it won't fit my Y bike). It took more weight off my bike, which had LX with an STX-RC crank set, than I expected and functions flawlessly. I have White In
d. hubs rather than XTR. After all the great reviews of the V-brakes I was a little surprised. They work great and are much better than my previous setup, but I think the change to Mavic 217 ceramic rims (which I did first) actually made a greater i
mprovement in overall brake performance. If you are having trouble getting the brakes, try the ceramic rims.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gLiTCh
a weekend warrior
from Chicago ILL
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The V-brakes are eXcellenT. You do need to get used to the power in the front (my teeth now know).
As for the rest of the set it wasn't really worth it for me to upgrade from XT, I saw no overwhelming improvment over XT to make me spend the eXTRa cash.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Timmerman
a racer
from Storrs CT
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Right now I am using the following:
Front Derailleur (regular clamp mount)
Shift/Brake levers
Crank/Bottom bracket
Cassette
It all works great, no complaints at all.
I especially like the leverage adjusters on the brake levers, they work
much better than the blocks on the XT levers.
This group is expensive, but overall it gives is an excellent value.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a racer
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
These Shimano v-brakes are the best brakes i've ever bought. Damn! they are the mother of all stoppers!! They have a really nice cool colour too, really matches my carbon frame. One thing for sure is that these brakes will last, like most shimano prod
ucts they are excellent!! period!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a cross-country rider
from Mesa AZ
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The RFSL I love, and a must w/the V. When you consider this combo; I'd save a few bucks for the after ride cold one and go XT. These hubs are the whip, but I tend to go for the flashy stuff w/ a press fit type bearing. The cranks are all hype, and
for lack better terms; ave. when it comes down it. No need for that front shift contraption. On the other hand I have yet to ride anything that can compare to the back one. Also, this cog set; well, it rules. The only thing I'm not sure on is this
BB, my guess is that you could do as good if not better for the $.
Nair a marsupial
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a downhiller
from California
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
All I have from the new XTR group is the front derailleur. It's light and shifts well. However, when I'm in the small chainring, the chain rubs against the lower part of the derailleur cage. I have fiddled with it alot, but the problem still exist
s. I was using 48-36-24 gearing and thought going to a 46t chainring would remedy this problem - it didn't.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kieron Quigley
a downhiller
from Edmonton, AB, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I am the parts manager at the largest GT Bikes dealer in Canada,
United Cycle and I had the fortune to install some Shimano XTR
shifting components ( fr der, rr der, sti ). The system works without
a hitch and the new front derailleur works like a charm I must say!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bobby Easy Chan & Sonny Chan
a weekend warrior
from St Laurent, Quebec, CANADA
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Sonny bought the whole 1996 XTR grouppo when we went to Hong Kong this summer. The group is a dream. Now he is waiting to install it on his Zaskar Frame. The Casette is super light, the crank is a dream, but the new XTR crank needs the special XTR BB
and a special tool. The mecanic that sold the groupo was nice enough to include the special tool. Both shifter cables are teflon coated, so the shifting is super smooth. The shifting mecanism is also a totally sealed system and you will need to remove
2 little screws to change shifter cables. The Front and Back derailleur is machined, but as for performance, I can't comment yet.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh Deetz
a weekend warrior
from Italy, today
Date Reviewed: July 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The products are great overall. The V-Brakes are very sensitive to
pad wear. I have seen and so have others athat they need adjustment
a number of times during a single ride. The roller clutch rear hub
is well sealed but when they get anything in the raceways they fail.
The front derail is really cool, quick & crisp only with XTR. Rear
derail, ....... Well the Sram is better.
Later
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Submitted by
Keith Yan
a downhiller
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: July 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I am currenly using XTR front and back derailleur with Grip Shif X-ray! Yes with Grip Shif and I don't find much difference with the rear compared to a 95 XT, but the front, oohhh!! Smooooth! Never had a miss shif for the past 3 months I've been using
it, dish out your money for it U can't go wrong!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James Huang
a cross-country rider
from Ann Arbor, MI
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The rear hub is awesome!! Super tough and dependable, rebuildable, and
light to boot. I couldn't ask for more. After seeing Hugi's, Hopes,
Nuke Proofs, and virtually every other aftermarket CNC foofoo hub out
there blow up, I would never consider using anything else.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matthew
a racer
from australia
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
'96 XTR is the best the greatest the most wonderfull mtb groupo you can buy why buy an aftermarket set up than won't work properly and has a high chance of breaking when you can get XTR an d flauless peformance
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clancy Derrick
a cross-country rider
from Anchorage, AK
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The XTR cassette is incredably smooth, strong and light. Bonus,
it is also easy to clean.
| | Overall Rating: |
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