{"id":1821990,"date":"2026-03-12T10:05:00","date_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1821990"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:05:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:05:00","slug":"shimano-deore-di2-brings-wireless-electronic-shifting-to-older-bikes-on-a-budget-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1821990","title":{"rendered":"Shimano Deore Di2 brings wireless electronic shifting to older bikes on a budget [Review]"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"entry-content\">\n<div id=\"wp_content_article\" class=\"st_article_class\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1600\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%202400%201600'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up image of a black electronic device mounted on a bicycle handlebar, featuring buttons and a textured surface. The background includes blurred greenery, suggesting an outdoor setting.\" class=\"wp-image-714826 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter.jpg 2400w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-deore-di2-shifter-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p>Last summer Shimano <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-announces-wireless-xt-and-deore-di2-electronic-drivetrains\/\">announced<\/a> their most affordable wireless electronic mountain bike drivetrain yet, Deore Di2. Dropping at the same time as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-deore-xt-m8200-di2-wireless-drivetrain-review\/\">mid-range workhorse XT group<\/a>, Deore was overlooked by many riders, myself included. Since the beginning of the year, however, I\u2019ve been testing Shimano Deore Di2 on my eight-year-old hardtail, and it\u2019s proven to be a worthy upgrade.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-shimano-deore-di2-drivetrain-key-specs\">Shimano Deore Di2 drivetrain key specs<\/h3>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weight: 601g (derailleur and shifter)<\/li>\n<li>Price: $650<\/li>\n<li>Buy from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/wp-json\/click\/track\/fQsuN6\/\">Performance Bike<\/a> (on sale for $534.87 at time of publication)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-smooth-upgrade-path-to-wireless-electronic-shifting\">A smooth upgrade path to wireless electronic shifting<\/h2>\n<p>I decided to test the Shimano Deore Di2 drivetrain on my <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/the-ultimate-hardcore-hardtail-build-2019\/\">2018 Orange P7 hardtail<\/a>, a bike that has several thousand miles on it and that had been running <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-slx-group-review\/\">a mechanical Deore drivetrain<\/a> for many years. I chose the P7 because a Di2 upgrade promised to be simple: just replace the derailleur and shifter, and keep the cassette, chain, and crankset. Plus, since the bike doesn\u2019t have UDH dropouts, SRAM\u2019s Transmission electronic drivetrain wasn\u2019t an option.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike the higher-priced Di2 XTR and XT derailleurs, the Di2 Deore derailleur is only offered with a long cage. This means it\u2019s designed to work with wide-range, 12-speed 10-51T cassettes only. (There <em>is<\/em> a wired e-bike version of the Deore Di2 derailleur that\u2019s designed for 11-speed cassettes.) With XTR and XT derailleurs, buyers can select a medium cage that works with tighter 9-45T cassettes. Most riders will prefer the 10-51T cassette since it offers a slightly wider gear range.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-0269600fabad26ed66acb3d83c9aa7ec singl-content\" id=\"singl-0269600fabad26ed66acb3d83c9aa7ec\"><\/div>\n<p>Fortunately, my mechanical Deore setup was already running a 10-51T cassette, so all I needed was a Di2 derailleur and shifter to go wireless. Since it had been a while since I replaced my chain, I decided to put a new one on at the same time, though this isn\u2019t necessary for compatibility.<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\"><strong>Reviewer profile<\/strong>\u00a0<em>height<\/em>: 190cm (6\u20193\u2033)\u00a0<em>weight<\/em>: 75kg (165lb)\u00a0<em>testing zone<\/em>: Southeast, USA<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps the most time-consuming part of the Deore Di2 installation was removing the mechanical system. I threw a fresh derailleur hanger onto my frame to ensure everything was to spec, and attached the new derailleur. Then I mounted the shifter using the I-SPEC EV hardware and installed the chain.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of a bicycle's rear derailleur and chain, showing the intricate details of the gears and components. The image captures the mechanics in a natural setting, with soft bokeh in the background, highlighting the texture and condition of the parts.\" class=\"wp-image-714819 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-4-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p>Right away, the derailleur shifted surprisingly smoothly, though I needed to make a couple of micro-adjustments using the trim function built into the derailleur. Shimano says the outer plate of the derailleur cage should align \u201cwith the tip of the tallest tooth on the largest sprocket\u201d of the cassette. After adjusting the B-screw to its limit, my derailleur was still a couple of millimeters short of proper alignment. Ultimately, this didn\u2019t affect my shifting over months of testing, though first gear does feel a little crunchy. (More on this later.)<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-4f12cee5f806437b05611e0b1520df9e singl-content\" id=\"singl-4f12cee5f806437b05611e0b1520df9e\"><\/div>\n<p>I also needed to adjust the high and low limit screws. Shimano says to set the screws so they just touch the limit stoppers. That\u2019s simple enough with little ambiguity; however, getting myself into a position where I could actually see the limit stoppers required lying flat on the ground beneath my work stand with a flashlight in hand.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-1170x780.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-714822 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-3-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p>I\u2019m stoked that the latest Shimano wireless electronic drivetrain goes onto an eight-year-old bike that was produced before UDH was even a thing so easily. For a while there, I was worried my hardtail was on its way to obsolescence, but this drivetrain upgrade has given it new life.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" data-id=\"714820\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a bicycle derailleur positioned near a cassette, with dirt and debris visible on the components, set against a blurred background of foliage and leaves.\" class=\"wp-image-714820 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-5-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"1170\" data-id=\"714818\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%201170'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-780x1170.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of a bicycle's rear derailleur and chain, showcasing a dirty, mechanical component against a blurred background of leaves and greenery. The bike features a blue frame and a contrasting red pedal.\" class=\"wp-image-714818 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-780x1170.jpg 780w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-500x750.jpg 500w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-768x1151.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-1025x1536.jpg 1025w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-1366x2048.jpg 1366w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6-600x899.jpg 600w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-6.jpg 1601w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-shimano-deore-di2-performance-on-the-trail\">Shimano Deore Di2 performance on the trail<\/h2>\n<p>On the trail, the Shimano Deore Di2 derailleur has proven to be as smooth and reliable as the mechanical Deore derailleur it replaced. Shifts are fast and crisp, just with an audible \u201cwheek\u201d instead of a silent cable pull.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-fb1381735aa9b9a74522b614c32d577b singl-content\" id=\"singl-fb1381735aa9b9a74522b614c32d577b\"><\/div>\n<p>The Deore Di2 shifter (technically the \u201cshifting switch,\u201d per Shimano) doesn\u2019t offer adjustable lever positions like the more expensive XTR and XT versions. Of course, you can adjust the position of the unit inboard and outboard, and also the angle of the shifter, but the individual trigger positions are fixed. This isn\u2019t unlike previous mechanical systems, so most riders probably won\u2019t miss this feature. Coming from XTR Di2, I found the fixed positions a little awkward at first, but adapted to them over time. My takeaway is that the adjustable levers are a nice-to-have feature, but they\u2019re not make-or-break.<\/p>\n<p>Deore shifters are missing rubber pads on the lever paddles and are made of plastic. A grooved pattern provides some grip, though when riding gloveless, there\u2019s some slippage compared to the XTR shifter paddles.<\/p>\n<p>One advantage of the simplified shifting switch for the weight weenies out there is that Deore Di2 shifters weigh less than both XT and XTR shifters. Of course, the extra weight of the Deore derailleur more than takes away from any gains, but for the truly weight-obsessed, pairing an XTR derailleur with a Deore shifter will be tempting.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-641bb9e934f8045d00461e3ffda652be singl-content\" id=\"singl-641bb9e934f8045d00461e3ffda652be\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up image of a person's hand holding a black bicycle derailleur, showcasing its mechanical components. The background has a soft focus of bright pink flowers, contrasting with the dark metal of the derailleur.\" class=\"wp-image-714816 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-9-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p>Like the other Di2 derailleurs, Deore doesn\u2019t feature a clutch. Instead, the derailleur uses a dual-spring chain stabilizer. The stabilizer feels tighter on the Deore than my XTR derailleur, and a quick-and-dirty test with a fish scale shows it resists with about 10% more force. Of course, it\u2019s quite possible that the springs inside the XTR derailleur \u2014 which I\u2019ve been running for more than a year \u2014 have become stretched over time and have lost some of their spring tension.<\/p>\n<p>As far as I can tell, the automatic impact recovery function works every bit as well on the Deore derailleur as it does on the XTR. Since the Deore is on my hardtail, which I choose to ride on the jankiest trails, it\u2019s chewed through a lot of sticks and grass, fortunately with zero complaints.<\/p>\n<p>In first gear (biggest cassette cog), the drivetrain feels a little crunchy and makes a low grinding sound. I suspect this could be related to the B-screw fit issue I mentioned above, but on further observation, I noticed the same thing with my XTR derailleur on a different bike that doesn\u2019t have a fit issue. In both cases, the derailleur shifts just fine, and the chain drives the cassette without skipping. None of the other gears on either bike has this issue.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-793a3b0baa15761c205dfe0dfbf4dec3 singl-content\" id=\"singl-793a3b0baa15761c205dfe0dfbf4dec3\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 15px;background: #f1f1f1;max-width: 800px;margin: 0 auto 25px auto\">\n<h3 style=\"margin: 0;padding: 0 0 5px 0\">Share your Shimano Deore Di2 drivetrain review<\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-size: 12px;margin-bottom: 15px\">Tried it? Tell us what you think about it.<\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\t&lt;!&#8211;  &#8211;&gt;<\/p>\n<div class=\"rar_rating\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_5\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_4\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_3\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_2\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_1\"><\/label><\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(function() {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).on( &#8216;submit&#8217;, function( event ) {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tevent.preventDefault();<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery.ajax({ \/\/ create an AJAX call&#8230;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata: jQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).serialize(), \/\/ get the form data<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\ttype: &#8216;post&#8217;,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\turl: ajaxurl + &#8220;?action=rar_save_input&amp;st_nonce=&#8221;+stUserObject.nonce,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tsuccess: function (response) { \/\/ on success..<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\/\/ display the review below<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tif ( response.id == 0 ){<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).html( response.message );<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t} else if ( response.id == 9 ){<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).html( response.message );<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t} else {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).empty().html(&#8216;<\/p>\n<div>Thank you for sharing!<\/div>\n<p>&#8216;);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t}<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t},<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdataType: &#8216;json&#8217;,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t});<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t});<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tconst ratingInputs = document.querySelectorAll(&#8216;.rar_rating input&#8217;);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tconst resultElement = document.getElementById(&#8216;result&#8217;);<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tratingInputs.forEach(input =&gt; {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  input.addEventListener(&#8216;change&#8217;, () =&gt; {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tconst selectedRating = input.value;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tconst ratingName = input.name;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_rating&#8217;).val(selectedRating);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  });<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tfunction rar_login_check(formid){<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#&#8217;+formid+&#8217;form&#8217;).hide();<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#&#8217;+formid+&#8217;login&#8217;).show();<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t}<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tunicode-bidi: bidi-override;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdirection: rtl;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\ttext-align: left;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; label {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdisplay: inline-block;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\twidth: 30px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\ttext-align: center;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcursor: pointer;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tfont-size: 24px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; input {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdisplay: none;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; label:before {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcontent: &#8216;&#9733;&#8217;;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tpadding: 5px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #ccc;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; input:checked ~ label:before {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #066;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<div><textarea name=\"rar_gear_comment\" style=\"height: 100px;width: 100%\"><\/textarea><\/div>\n<div id=\"rar_gear_login\">\n<div>Please <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/login\/?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.singletracks.com%2Fmtb-gear%2Fshimano-deore-di2-brings-wireless-electronic-shifting-to-older-bikes-on-a-budget-review%2F\">login<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/create\/?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.singletracks.com%2Fmtb-gear%2Fshimano-deore-di2-brings-wireless-electronic-shifting-to-older-bikes-on-a-budget-review%2F\">create an account<\/a> to continue.<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The Deore\u2019s multi-shift function works great, and shift speeds are excellent with the Hyperglide+ system. Battery life for the Deore Di2 derailleur is on par with XTR in my experience, and as far as I can tell, the batteries are identical. <\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-does-it-compare-to-shimano-xt-and-xtr-and-other-wireless-electronic-drivetrains\">How does it compare to Shimano XT and XTR and other wireless electronic drivetrains?<\/h2>\n<p>Long-time riders will notice that Shimano does not offer an SLX version of their Di2 wireless electronic components. Traditionally, SLX sits between XT and Deore, with a 7000-series designation. Officially, Deore Di2\u2019s product designation is M6250.<\/p>\n<p>Looking at the specs and prices for Di2 components, there\u2019s certainly room for an SLX group in terms of pricing, though, as far as weights are concerned, the range is already tight as it is.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-e78cc80df9a66ae3e09543221d0a30ab singl-content\" id=\"singl-e78cc80df9a66ae3e09543221d0a30ab\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" data-id=\"714813\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-1170x780.jpg\" alt='Two bicycle derailleurs are displayed on a wooden surface. The upper derailleur features the \"XTR\" branding, while the lower device has \"GRX\" marked on it. Nearby, a pink hex key and a yellow pencil are visible, suggesting a maintenance or repair task.' class=\"wp-image-714813 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-12-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" data-id=\"714812\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201170%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Two black camera mounts are positioned side by side on a wooden surface. The mounts have a sleek design, with distinct receiving points for attachments, and feature small adjustable levers. A pink object is slightly visible in the background. The image is well-lit, emphasizing the details of the mounts.\" class=\"wp-image-714812 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/shimano-di2-deore-drivetrain-11-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Photo right: XTR derailleur top, Deore bottom. Photo left: Deore shifter left, XTR right.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><\/th>\n<th>Deore Di2<\/th>\n<th>XT Di2<\/th>\n<th>XTR Di2<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Derailleur weight<\/td>\n<td>516g<\/td>\n<td>375g*<\/td>\n<td>415g<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Shifter weight<\/td>\n<td>85g<\/td>\n<td>97g*<\/td>\n<td>98g<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Total weight<\/td>\n<td>601g<\/td>\n<td>472g*<\/td>\n<td>513g<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Upgrade price<\/td>\n<td>$650<\/td>\n<td>$860<\/td>\n<td>$985<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Shifter<\/td>\n<td>Non-adjustable levers<\/td>\n<td>3-way adjustable levers<\/td>\n<td>4-way adjustable levers<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">* Claimed weight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>\u201cUpgrading\u201d from mechanical Deore to Deore Di2 results in a pretty significant weight penalty. The mechanical Deore system I replaced weighs 535g, which includes the derailleur, shifter, cable, and housing. Only by going with a pricier XT or XTR Di2 setup can riders beat the weight of the inexpensive Deore mechanical system.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to SRAM Eagle AXS Transmission wireless electronic components, the Deore derailleur and shifter are considerably heavier than even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/sram-s1000-lowers-eagle-transmission-price-performs-just-as-well-as-gx-review\/\">the least expensive S1000 components<\/a>. Based on our tests, SRAM\u2019s S1000 derailleur weighs 471.6g while the shifter remote is a feather-light 45g. However, Shimano\u2019s XT and XTR derailleurs weigh less than the SRAM X0 derailleur.<\/p>\n<p>Where Shimano has SRAM beat is on price, especially for buyers who are already invested in Shimano\u2019s drivetrain ecosystem. Though the $605 GX Eagle Transmission upgrade kit is priced a few bucks lower than the Deore Di2 upgrade kit, most riders will need to purchase a T-type compatible cassette, chain, and crankset. If you\u2019ve already got a 10-51T Shimano cassette, a Shimano chain, and a Shimano crankset, the upgrade kit is all you need.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-9f247979748ec1e56455805913a04c2d singl-content\" id=\"singl-9f247979748ec1e56455805913a04c2d\"><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-and-cons-of-shimano-deore-di2-drivetrain\">Pros and cons of Shimano Deore Di2 drivetrain<\/h2>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros\">Pros<\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Simple upgrade from Shimano mechanical drivetrain<\/li>\n<li>Smooth and reliable performance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons\">Cons<\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Heavy derailleur \u2014 well over a pound! It\u2019s enough to make me seriously consider a single-speed drivetrain.<\/li>\n<li>Might not be able to achieve the proper spec with some bikes. As a result, the first gear is slightly crunchy due to a B-screw limitation with our test bike.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bottom-line\">Bottom line<\/h2>\n<p>For those seeking the advantages of wireless electronic shifting \u2014 simple installation, robust impact protection, and a clean cockpit \u2014 Shimano Deore Di2 offers an easy and inexpensive upgrade path.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t&lt;!&#8211;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4>Related articles<\/h4>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t&#8211;&gt;<\/p>\n<div style=\"height: 30px\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\tjQuery(function() {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tpostpayloads._de5b4b1be393cf433fdb4c55c1a87c60 = {&#8220;ids&#8221;:&#8221;705656,705367,501018,695959&#8243;,&#8221;posts_per_page&#8221;:null,&#8221;offset&#8221;:0,&#8221;style&#8221;:&#8221;4up&#8221;};<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tpostcounter._de5b4b1be393cf433fdb4c55c1a87c60 = {start: 0, step: 0, end: 0};<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<div class=\"row\" style=\"background: #fff\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-xtr-di2-long-term-review-one-year-of-wireless-mtb-drivetrain-testing\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201%201'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shimano-xtr-di2-5-2-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a bicycle's rear derailleur, featuring a silver and black Shimano XTR component, with a background of a metallic bike cassette and gravel surface.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/gear\/components\/brakes\/\">Brakes<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-xtr-di2-long-term-review-one-year-of-wireless-mtb-drivetrain-testing\/\">Shimano XTR Di2 long-term review: One year of wireless MTB drivetrain testing<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-deore-xt-m8200-di2-wireless-drivetrain-review\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201%201'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/MTB06525-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a bicycle's rear drivetrain, featuring a cluster of gears and a derailleur. The derailleur is marked with &quot;Deore XT&quot; and is mounted on a light-colored bicycle frame. The background includes greenery, suggesting an outdoor setting.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/gear\/components\/drivetrain\/\">Drivetrain<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-deore-xt-m8200-di2-wireless-drivetrain-review\/\">Shimano DEORE XT M8200 Di2 wireless drivetrain review<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"clearfix visible-xs\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-slx-group-review\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201%201'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/shimano_deore_12speed-6-750x500.jpeg\" alt=\"Close-up of a bicycle cassette and chain, featuring gleaming metallic gears and a turquoise frame component, with a focus on the intricate details of the chain links and sprocket design.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/gear\/components\/drivetrain\/\">Drivetrain<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-slx-group-review\/\">The 12-speed Shimano Deore Drivetrain Delivers Incredible Value [Review]<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-announces-wireless-xt-and-deore-di2-electronic-drivetrains\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201%201'%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/SLorencePhoto_DeoreXT_021-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up image of a foot wearing a black sneaker on a mountain bike pedal, with a focus on the bike's drivetrain, including the crankset and chain. The bike has a turquoise frame and features a black Deore XT chainring. The background is a blurred natural setting, suggesting an outdoor biking environment.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/gear\/components\/drivetrain\/\">Drivetrain<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-announces-wireless-xt-and-deore-di2-electronic-drivetrains\/\">Shimano announces wireless XT and Deore Di2 electronic drivetrains<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"clearfix visible-xs\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last summer Shimano announced their most affordable wireless electronic mountain bike drivetrain yet, Deore Di2. Dropping at the same time as the mid-range workhorse XT group, Deore was overlooked by many riders, myself included. Since the beginning of the year, however, I\u2019ve been testing Shimano Deore Di2 on my eight-year-old hardtail, and it\u2019s proven to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[226,274],"class_list":["post-1821990","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-crawlmanager","tag-singletracks-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1821990","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1821990"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1821990\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1821990"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1821990"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1821990"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}