In short, it definitely doesn't work 🙂
I've got all the bits for a 10 speed setup so I thought I'd give it a go since with some other combinations, it can be made to work (eg [url= http://www.ctc.org.uk/desktopdefault.aspx?tabid=3946 ]Campag shifters with Shimano drivetrain[/url]) by adjusting where the cable fixes to the rear mech to adjust for the different cable pull.
In this case, 10 speed mtb shifters pull more cable than 9 speed ones so I tried extending the cable pickup point with a couple of Look cleat washers. With it set as far as possible out (to allow for the longer 10 speed cable pull) it still wasn't quite far enough (every third or fourth shift would shift 2 gears instead of one) and unfortunately the clamp hits the cable stop if you go any further out (or it bends the cable too much).
So, essentially, we're stuck having to use Shimano's kit how they want us to (unless you get 10 speed road flat bar shifters)
[img] 
[/img]
I can hear Shimano San chuckling away to himself....'told you so'
use a problem solvers type solution with a ratio changing on a pivot somewhere on the frame. Shifter cable on one end, cable to derailleur on the other and an offset pivot point inbetween. If you make it with an adjustable pivot point or adjustable cable mount you can fine tune it.
I know there are ways of doing it but ijust really wanted to check that there wasn't a simple fix. Plus I like bodging 🙂
http://problemsolversbike.com/products/travel_agents/
Your solution above is a bit bulky and lacks finesse. You should be able to do it with a better made bracket but first find out the exact ratio change.
You're not really reading my responses 🙂
I'm not actually trying to do this as a solution, just out of interest to see if it'd work in a simple way that didn't require travel agents and the like. It works perfectly on my CX bike (Campag shifters, Shimano everything else) so I fancied seeing if it was possible. As I said, I already have all the 10 speed bits already (which are now fitted and working perfectly!)
As an aside, is that an XTR M960 rear mech with and M970 cage? Why?
No, it's a standard 970