[Closed] 2012 Deore 10 speed so far

I have only positive things to say about the groupset! Sorry snobs, but it's really gone up a notch.

The chainset is a lot like the SLX of 2011 (middle ring is half composite, drilling in chainrings) and shifts very smoothly. The brakes are smooth and solid with shorter levers so you can keep your windows on the shifters. I don't think it would work to move them inboard as they are noticeably shorter than the previous 2 finger lever. Again these feel similar to the SLX 2011 brakes (maybe a smidge less modulation due to the servo-wave). The hose routing is not quite as slick as the previous master cylinder shape but isn't a problem either.

The mechs don't look too fancy but do their job well, styling again borrowed from Deore's bigger brother last year. I can't spot a difference between the 2012 SLX and Deore shifters, it's probably a weight issue. The cassette has the excess material associated with entry level components, but is definitely more 'gappy' than it used to be. The ratios feel good and work well as a double setup.

In short, if you aren't a weenie then it may well be worth a look if you're building a project. Merlin are doing the whole shebang for £260 with an additional 10% atm. [url= http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/Bike+Shop/MTB++Parts/Transmission++Gears/Groupsets+-+MTB/Deore+10+Speed+Disc+Brake+Groupset_DEORE-GROUP-10.htm ]HERE'S THE LINK[/url]

I don't work for Merlin, but I do think this is a Billy-bargain. £224 for shifters, mechs, cables, chain, cassette, brakes, rotors, BB & chainset is quite a deal. Actionsports.de may well have a better deal, I've not looked.

Seeing as I can pick up 1-2kg of mud on a sloppy ride the weight of the groupset is not a huge issue to me, I just want it to work well. This does!

Here it is dangling from my bike:

[img] [/img]

I know the front mech's high, I set it up as if it was triple as that is how it came before I slapped a bash on. Works like an effective charm.