Pondering going 1 x 10 on my ML8 as the cassette is worn and that sounds like a good excuse to buy new bits!
Currently have M970 XTR throughout, so quite fancy M980 XTR (apart from the cassette which is too much money for a consumable part IMO). Do they make a short or medium cage rear mech that will work with an 11-36 XT cassette or should I be looking at the new trail mech with the clutch mechanism in lieu of a chain device? 2012 XT might be a more sensible option I guess but being a ponce I am erring towards XTR again!
Also currently have M970 cranks in a double and bash setup - is there any advantage in going for one of the new double setups (and can you actually run a bashring with these?).
Thanks
Chris
Anyone?
If you've money burning a hole get the new xtr mech, it sounds like it discounts the need for a bottom guide and chain stay protector most of the the time. However, it's a LOT of money extra for a bit of bling and a little less weight.
I change from 1 x 9 XTR 970 cranks and xtr972 mid cage mech xtr 970 shifter xtr 11-32 cassette and chain, to 1 x xt mech mid cage, shifter xt , 11-36 xt cassette and chain with my XTR 970 cranks with a new e-13 ring 32, I like the extra ratio, but the shifting is soo much better on the xtr 9 speed so maybe stick with the xtr to maintain the same slickness xtr gives.
The M980 double won't take a normal single ring. It has a different BCD to the triple M980 crank which will accept normal chainrings. If you buy an M980 double, you'll need to get a ring made for it.
GB
Correct me if I'm wrong, but is this not the bike you've recently beefed up somewhat? If so, wouldn't bother with XTR personally, weight savings you'll not notice/appreciate, and XT performance is pretty much as good as XTR these days.
If I were you, to go 1x10 on your ML8 I'd use the current M970 cranks but just with a single unramped ring, buy an MRP 1X or Superstar XCR guide, an 11-36 XT cassette, XT medium cage mech (no need for long cage with only single ring), and an XT right hand shifter.
I like the extra ratio, but the shifting is soo much better on the xtr 9 speed so maybe stick with the xtr to maintain the same slickness xtr gives.
Got to say I couldn't disagree more here. I went from a 1x9 XTR setup to a 1x10 XT, and was stunned just how good the quality of XT is now. Shift quality on 10spd is a significant improvement over 9spd systems IMO. So not just an extra ratio!
Fair point MBoy - I guess I like XTR for the bling as much as any small weight saving! I have M970 on both my bikes but the ML8 which is generally ridden more and cared for less, has a very graunchy drivetrain at present whereas the other bike shifts like it's new still, so whatever I go for will be a big improvement I'm sure.
According to CRC the new 2012 XT mechs aren't due in until end of October - anyone know any different?