Shimano produces mountain bike, or MTB, gear sets in the Dura-Ace and Deore XT lines that provide up to 27 gear ratios. Many consider Deore XT gear sets to be the more superior in terms of durability and performance. Critical components of Shimano MTB gear sets include the chainwheel, rear wheel hub and the rear cassette sprocket.
Compatibility
Shimano publishes compatibility charts that list the recommended combination of MTB gear set components and accessories. This type of reference provides efficient coordination of derailleurs and shift levers with particular gear sets. A typical example of interchangeability would be the use of a FD-M770 front derailleur with the FC-M770 Deore XT front chainwheel. With few exceptions, Shimano mountain bike components incorporate the letter "M" within the product number.
Chainwheels
Shimano chainwheel sets include three sprocket rings, crank arms and the numerous spacers, bolts and washers needed to assemble and install the unit. Compatibility charts include references that provide accurate selection of chainwheels for a particular bottom bracket dimension. This allows Shimano chainrings to be adapted to any number of production mountain bikes.
Free Hubs
A diverse selection of quick-release skewers and free hubs are available for adaptation with Shimano gear sets. Shimano produces free hubs in the Dura-Ace and Deore XT line, and each line differs in materials and finish. Typical of the product lines, the FH-M770 free hub components include the hub, hub axle, steel bearings and the necessary cups and caps that protect the unit in mountain bike conditions.
Cassette Sprockets
Shimano produces 9-speed rear cassette sprockets in the Dura-Ace and Deore XT line. The units are engineered to adapt with Shimano free hubs and are available in silver and black finishes, as denoted within the part number. The Deore CS-M770 is an example of cassette sprockets offered in the aQ-group and as-group gear ratios. Components include the individual sprockets, spacers, lock-ring and the lock-ring tool needed to install the unit.
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