Man I love your channel, I’ve been building a XC bike over the course of the year and you are my go to guru. Keep up the good work my friend, your a legend.
Nobody else goes to the same level of detail that you do and I always come away from you videos with zero questions. Really appreciate your efforts 🤜💥🤛...... you're pretty much the reason my bike works so good.
Thanks for detailed Informationen about XTR washer! Never saw this somewhere else! Now my Bronson turned into a silent bike, because this washer was missing! 👍👍👍
Just switched to a 2021 29 xc bike from a very old 2007 26 one a week ago, from 3x9 to 1x12, a HUGE difference, now I have have a complete XT 8100 groupset, I'm so happy with it, wish I had some XTR parts though, o also have DT Swiss wheels
Thanks for posting this. I've been sandbagging on my tech and am finally moving from 2x9 X0 to 1x12 XT. All the parts are on the way and this is helpful to know what I'm getting into before un-boxing.
One thing i'm happy about is that the SLX cassette costs about as much as an NX Eagle cassette, while it has more range and in terms of weight it's between NX and GX (which is almost twice the price). I think it's ridiculous where cassette prices are going. I remember in the old days when people said that 1x is cheaper because you have 1 less chainring, 1 less shifter, and no FD. Yeah, I guess that didn't exactly work out.
@@LoveMTB Yeah, the microspline situation is a bit strange, but i'm sure things are gonna change. After all, i'm a random guy on the internet, I know everything. 😁 Other than hurting sales, I don't understand what this "exclusivity" will achieve.
I was using a Shimano XT shifter with XT cassette and XTR rear mech just changed the shifter to XTR the difference was very noticeable. Since I have just bought a new mech and shifter I will wait a bit to upgrade but will definitely change at some point. Good video enjoyed the comparison, look forward to a field test.
Such a helpful guide, particularly the detail on low spacer/loose cogs alignment on SLX. Watched lots of how-to guides but yours is by far the best in this respect. Exactly the details I needed to get installation perfect first time. Thank-you and greetings from Scotland👍
It's one of those "Once you have tried it you never go back" things. Unless there's some sort of major durability issue I can't see myself ever considering something else.
You align the 12t using the splines, where the larger splines ones are aligned on 14t and 12t. Then you align 10t using the dot on 12t. Everything is done in the right way by Shimano
I do find it better under power:) It also engages super quick. I was able to stop in the middle of a steep section, and get started without any trouble while jumping 4 rings:) I could not have done that on my old 2x11 xt.
I was using Shimano gear since 1993. Last year I tried sunrace cassette and this year SRAM crankset. Last week I bought Shimano cassette. Now it's time to try SRAM eagle cassette
The cassette body shown in the video is a DT Swiss body. The gouging issue has existed for decades with off-brand cassette bodies made of aluminum to save a few grams, and Shimano cassettes. Solution: use a genuine Shimano Freehub.
Great video with lots of useful info as always, thank you! 👍👍👍 I hope we will see SLX on the new bikes instead of NX and SX Eagle. I found SRAM’s budget 12 speed offerings cheaply made low quality and replaced them with 11 speed XT.
@@LoveMTB Say I bought a bike with full SX Eagle groupset and was looking for improved shifting... Can I keep my current cassette, chain, and chainring and just swap out the SX Eagle Lever and Derailleur for a 12-speed SLX? Would you recommend picking up the XT Shifter as opposed to the SLX even if I went with an SLX rear mech? Or am I better off picking up a GX Eagle rear mech and shifter instead? Unfortunately no XD Driver, so I couldn't upgrade the cassette unless I wanted to mess with the hubs...
Does not like to shift under power, but it isn’t a handicap because shifting is instant, without pedaling. Ease off for a fraction of a second, click, and you are climbing again. You can also jump 2 or 3 gears without waiting for engagement, which is great before an unexpected climb.
LoveMTB, you may have helped shed some light on a problem I've had for the last month Salsa Spearfish carbon SLX - creaking. It almost sounds like a creaking saddle but you get the same sound, in our out of the saddle. All my pivots are tight and the sound - I've confirmed multiple times - is coming from the rear end. Same creak, on both sides of the power stroke. The only thing left is the chain and cassette. I ride Alafia and Balm Boyette MTB trails, which means sand and a lot of phosphate. After nearly every ride I wash the bike, dry it off and use LOTS of Squirt. I ride most Friday mornings for about 1.5 hours and a couple of days a week with the grandkids around the neighborhood. You wouldn't think I'd be having these issues in about a years time. Then you mentioned that ring between the cassette and free hub. That "seems like" possibly the culprit. I wouldn't imagine it would wear out, it doesn't seem like a "wear item". What do you think?
Thanks for your quick response - No, it's in any gear. If you're coasting everything sounds "normal" (the noise from the pawls has always been inconsistent since day one, sometimes click, sometimes it's silent). The only time it creaks - in any gear - is when it's under load while you're pedaling, on both the right and left side.
Excellent content as always; thanks! My plan is to stay with 11spd SRAM (X01 cassette, GX mech, WT chainring, and X1 shifter), and go with the 12spd E13 upgrade once the cassette craps out. We shall see.....
I replaced my 2x11 shimano xt on my Procaliber Trek, with the new 1x12 Xt. I love it. It was a bit expensive since I had to change the hub, but I wanted to go 1x12, and I don't like the sram shifters (I know that's picky). My LBS also added the additional prawls for faster engagement in the hub. You really can shift under power. Because of another cyclist, I had to stop going up a really steep section that before I would have not been able to start in the middle of, but it was easy to shift 4 and engage instantly. Is it worth upgrading? Answer: depends on your cash flow. For me, yes. It cleaned up my handlebars, gave me a lower gear than the 2x11 (with a 30 front chain ring), and makes all of my shifting cleaner, easier, and more effective. In some ways it compares to sram Gx in other ways it is better. Depends on how important the shimano shifters are to the rider.
Thanks for sharing the information and video. I have been checking out micro spline freehub this few days and want to upgrade my 10 speed to 12 speed. I am ordering micro spline freehub and XT group set to install my own. I hope the micro spline freehub works perfectly fine on my hub and my wheel. Thanks once again.
Compared to the X01, the XRT does shift much smother in both directions. What I don't like about the Shimano is the ISpecEV which makes it difficult to mount a XTR shifter to anything else that Shimano brakes. (there is no way currently to mount a XTR shifter to a Magura break for example)
A friend of mine has had 2 failures already with the XT cassette while riding in the smallest gear. Replaced the Microspline Hub the first time. Dropping off the bike again.
@@LoveMTB, basically he was in his tallest gear(s) and the rings slipped, this damaged the hub splines. This was on a DB Release 2 and can only guess the factory didn't align the gears correctly when the wheel was built, knowing the problem his LBS replaced the hub and reinstalled the cassette correctly. DB didn't want to warranty this wheel on a bike less than a year old.
Great video always providing the great level of info...just bought the XT groupset with microspline freehub on the XT wheelset for a new ebike project after watching your video. Thanks a bunch as always.
I’m currently running SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain with an Absolute Black Oval chainring and the new KMC X12 chain on my 2018 Trek Fuel Ex 9.9.... Would love to eventually switch to all Shimano XTR down the road, but it will be a bit pricey!
What an great Video. So much effort - priceless! Thank You. In order of your question at the end: I am mostly happy but stuck, upgrading to 12 Speed,with my (old Version) 9-46 E13 Cassette an my XTR 9000 11 Speed derailleur and shifter... What would you recommend for upgrading?
Loose cogs are useful if you ride a lot on certain gears and a lot less on the others. That way you can replace single cogs if they wear out or if you want to change the number of teeth easily
Makes me kinda wish to have HG+ cassette with XD-compatible mount. However, that would require the casette to have no loose cogs. I.e. it is either SRAM changing tooth profile or Shimano accepting SRAM's standard (which has no patent fee, I believe) and making their cassettes a whole unit.
I like the idea of using titanium cogs but aluminum is a pretty soft metal to use that as your rear cassette in your lowest range they should have an option all the Rings can be Titanium or even a lower grade option where the the two highest gears are just Steel
I’m a Shimano guy. Always have been, but I’d love to have the balls to take a gamble on SRAM. The shifting that is. Not the brakes. I still hate SRAM brakes
I'll be jumping all over that as soon as XTR di2 12speed come out... assuming it will still be compatible with the road di2 shifters. Btw, have you experienced any issues using the wolf tooth ring together with the 12speed Shimano chain?
@@LoveMTB Cheer for the info, I had a feeling I would have to wait along time for that. At least I don't need to worry about converting free hubs for a while :P Keep the videos coming!
Hi, do You always use torque wrench for tightening cassettes? I've read this (only)one thread on forum where ppl were asking about Novatec's ABG system on freehub bodies. So overall ppl were not happy with it, cassettes were still biting in a bit and the steel plate was a stick-on so it had tendency to separate. And then there was this one guy, that wrote:"I always tighten cassettes with torque wrench and never had issues with bite damage to full alloy freehub bodies" So I'm wondering what's Your experience? I saw You still get bitemarks, but are they horrible, do they make removing cassettes difficult, how long it takes before freehub body is toast?
Weren't the spiders from the ols slx or xt cassette made from steel and therefore didn't have the issue? Which setup would you recommend from a longevety point of view? I need the xt shifter in order to shift 2 gears at once, but I only need 11 gears.
Im confused. I have nonboost frame (GT Sensor Carbon Expert 2014) with 12x142 Hope Pro 2 Evo (Im waiting for microspline hub, which will be avaible soon). I want go from 3x10spd (24-32-42 + 11-34) to 1x12spd (36 + 10-51). I know that new XT cranks has 3 variants (8100,8120,8130), which has different Q-Factor and chainline. The 8100 crank variant says that it is for O.L.D. 142mm and 148mm together - but it has 52mm chainline. Isnt 52mm chainline boost? Can I go with this cranks or not? My actual triple (FC-M780) has chainline 50mm. BTW: XT 2x12 cranks has chainline 48,8mm....
Thanks for your informative video. I have build my soft tail on a SLX 12s drive train with a 10-51T Cassette. In your video, you mention there’s no chain drop when you back pedal on its largest COG. However, for my build, I experienced chain drop when back pedal at the 51T COG. Not sure if you have any advise on any rectification. I have a 148mm boost frame/hub and 457mm chainstay. Chainline at the crank is 52mm.
Can't deny the XX1 cassette is a work of art. Can I use a XX1 cassette with SLX or XT groupset? What modifications / care need to be taken to make this work out?
@@LoveMTB I bought a HOPE FORTUS 30 rear wheel w/ Microspline so I've decided to go all SHIMANO finally to take advantage of that Hyperglide. I've come to understand that the XT chain is more durable than the SLX chain. But in your opinion, does the SLX Cassette fair as well as XT? Also another imporant question: The XT RD comes in SG and SGS - would you be able to advice the drawbacks of the shorter cage? Will it negatively affect chain retention? Thanks in advance.
I think if you asked me this 12 months ago, I would have jumped on the XT 12 speed. After a year of SRAM eagle under my belt, I'm not sure I want to make that move. I'm not super impressed with 12 speed and feel the parts are wearing out too fast. Maybe the Box 9 is what i'll look to instead.
Man, when I watch your videos, I get the answers I can't fine nowhere else! For example, is 12sp SRAM compatible with 12 sp Shimano gear, etc... Thx a lot!
@@LoveMTB glad you reply. In UK XTR sales at £300 but I have a guy that wants £175 for a brand new one. XT at retail is under £99 so I better stick with XT, Thank you again for reply
The gouging issue. That’s why I like Novatec’s ABG system but it will probably add weight. You would think they could have solved this in 4 years of development.
Great videos and explanations. I building complet 12 speed Shimano drivetrain and have some new CN-HG901-11 speed chains left. Can you tell me, would this chain work with 12 speed cassette? As 12 speed is little narrower 5.25 vs 5.62 right?
I currently have the XTR 12 SPD that came new with my bike. However, I want to change the cassette for a better range since I don't use the big gears. I want to get the rotor 11-46 but I have had a hard time getting the hub for my DT Swiss XRC1200
Rotor has the old style Shimano hub splines or at least that was what rotor told me. So I haven't tried to do anything about it. When and if I wear the XTR cassette I will look into it.
Thanks for the reply. Another question. My sprocket has a little play it will move back and forth a small amount if you push it and the chain is on the small sprockets . Is that normal
nice job as usual. i had no idea the Sram cassette would work with the Sh12 set up. like everyone else here (it seems), i too am not a fan of the ridiculous micro spline and multi-piece cassette. however, if the Sh cassette is required to get that exalted shifting i read about, under full gas, it's a must have for me. i never thought i'd care, but as i've been riding and contemplating the new drivetrain i can see i would use it a lot to maintain flow and just shift my way up so many climbs if an option . so we must know, does it work the same with the otherwise lovely Sram cassette?
@@LoveMTB and one more question, if you let. That's mean, if i will accelarate with middle load, middle power (without many-many watts) and will shift up i don't feel big difference, only slightly more sound? Noisier sound don't affect to wear of cassette/chain?
@@LoveMTB I think he might be talking about having a different chainring like a sram one combined with rear Shimano mech. And as far as I know it should work fine
Question- Do you find the OVAL Chain Ring to be wearing out the clutch premature? it looks like it makes your derailleur move forward and back far more than a standard chain ring ... thanks
I m currently using slx group set on my mtn bike. If I have limited funding to upgrade. Should I go with xtr cassette or xtr derailleur,? I can only afford one of those two choices. Thanks
@@LoveMTB nothing wrong yet but the deraileur got hit a few times that I had to bend it back now it's working fine. Just thinking ahead eventually will need to replace something there might as well upgrade. So u suggest xt deraileur if I need to replace my slx one day in the near future? Wat about the chain? Should I go with xt chain or simply slx chain? They r interchangeable anyway
Hi thank you for that informative video. I have a Giant Trance 2 with a 11-46 SLX cassette, and want to upgrade to possibly an 11 speed 11-51t SLX, would I need to modify or replace my derailleur?
Alas, I'm at a point of replacing my XT 8100 Cassette with a SRAM one just to avoid the Micro Spline freehub use. I've had a terrible time with the Micro Spline Freehub. First problem, the splines were completely shaven at the tip of the hub. Replaced the Micro Spline freehub with a new one and now I'm having the same issues. I'm scared the Microspline Freehub is damaged again. I'm thinking the Cassette setup with these clogs make it easy to shave off the Micro Spline Freehub, especially since the freehub is aluminum. The issue: Whenever I peddle under pressure, without switching gears, the drivetrain makes a loud gear switching sound and it feels like I'm skipping. It feels as if the cogs on the Cassette are spinning, skipping over the splines on the freehub.
Hey man, can u do a video on how to see if a groupset is compatible with different mtb. I am thinking of upgrading my trek marlin 7 running shimano acera 2x9 to probably shimano slx 2x11 but there are so many things and dimensions to consider with the bike. Need help on that, appreciate 😊
@@LoveMTB exactly what i needed!! Just finished watching both videos..Thanks for those videos omg i was lazy to check your older videos.. my bad! Running 1x drivetrain would be a good idea since i would love to cut down on the weight of my current bike. And one more thing, do u think 1x drivetrain would be more tiring to pedal around than 2x? I am using my bike to commute around the city mostly and throughout my life, i only had experience with 3x7 and 2x9 drivetrain lol
Shimano xt cassette and chain should work with sram derailleur and shifter? I'm hoping it will shift better under load being 108kg heavy weight haha. Also running a blackspire oval up front which I'm not happy with harshness it creates. Teeth don't seem optimised for 12speed.
@@LoveMTB yes, almost like the teeth are too wide for the chain, it's getting better with the more kms on it. I've got around 250km on the front ring now and it does seem to be getting smoother. It's especially noticeable when in the 50t with the chain line at its worse. The original eagle chainring was smooth as butter
So right now I have an 8 speed and want to go to 1x12 drivetrain. So your basically saying I have to get this microspline hub thing. Also another question if I get this is it longer than any generic cassette "holder"?
Thank you for your detailed videos! I would like to know if shimano 12 speed cassettes can be mounted on a Mavic hub with 12x142 axle with any freehub micro spline, because you don't have one listed but ebay seems have seller that tells so! Have any suggestion? Thanks dave
I’ve just bought mine and can’t wait to install it. I only need to buy the chainring for my Shimano Steps and I can’t decide which size should I go for 34 or 36. The chain I bought has 126 links and, although temped to go for a 36t chainring, I am not sure if the chain is long enough. Anyone able to spare some advice?
Hello, i have. A question about the Slx M7100 1x12 groupset. I ride a 2019 27.5" GT Agressor Comp which has Formula QR Hubs. I am building a new back wheel for the drivetrain and was wondering if there was an adapter to use Trueaxle or if you could recommend a QR hub?
How works this Woolf tooth (as understand, this chainring is not HG+ specific) chainring with Shimano 12 speed Hyperglide + chain, because WT says, that for this type of chain you need specific tooth profile chainring? Thanks
@LoveMTB, have you ever seen a lot of slack in a cassette stack? I have a new XTR M9100 cassette that didn't come with a spacer - I borrowed the slim spacer off of an SLX cassette stack and it helps with the "play" in the cassette. I've tried the XTR cassette on my Chris King Boost hub and an i9 Hydra. Same slack issue..
I’m not sure why the XTR low spacer wasn’t included in the box. It looks like I’m about 0.8mm from a proper fit (I used the thin spacer from my SLX cassette just as an experiment). I’m going to head to my local bike shop to have them take a look. Thanks for your videos.
@@LoveMTB After a little more time spent this morning, I found that I was able to make the XTR Cassette fit great on my i9 Hydra and also on a Shimano XT hub I have. I noticed that there is a silver (metal) lip that sticks up higher than the black MS driver body. This is preventing a flush connection of the last couple cogs to the remainder of the rest of the cassette. I've looked at images of the King hub online and some have this silver lip and some don't. I've reached out to the shop that built these wheels up for me and swapped the driver from XD to MS. Strange hey?
Response from King: "Thanks for contacting us. That silver lip is the threaded end cap for our Microspline driveshell which the cassette lock ring threads into. It looks like the one you received was not installed completely. This is an easy fix with a Park Tool FR1.3, or similar style freewheel tool. That end cap needs to be threaded in so it sits flush with the end of the driveshell and torqued to 40 in/lbs"
Hi, I have complete NX eagle with shimano hub, maybe I could buy a cheap micro-spline hub and slx cassette are reuse the sram chain, chainring, shifter and derailler. Correct? I want to change from 11-50 to 10-50 Thanks
LoveMTB had a lot of grinding with the XTR chain and Rotor Qring, not when hand winding, but under load, the elongated sideplates rode the teeth, had to grinde the sides of the teeth to make it smooth.... ROTOR Said it would be solved with a kmc quicklink......😂
I swapped my Deore12 speed for an XTR 12 speed cassette today. After installation I was riding and I could feel some grinding in the middle gears it shifted perfectly. The first two times trying to put the lock ring on something wasn’t quite right. Question there was a little plastic spacer on the free hub body when I pulled off the Deore. Should that come off? I also don’t remember seeing any spacer that goes on the free body first that came with the XTr.
@@LoveMTB Thanks for the reply. I took it apart after putting the Deore back on. The plastic spacer stayed with the Deore. I looked closely and felt the XTR. There was no spacer. After installing the Xtr the lock ring went on nice and I took her in the trails for a night ride. Even though my nite rider 1200 boost light failed the XTR cassette was smooth and grind free. When I get my Elite wheels Pro 33 I will have saved a full 2 1/2 pounds including a tire swap.
@@fra93ilgrande yes. The only way to remove considerable weight from the rear of a bike. Besides wheels and tires of course. Pay 6000 for a bike that weighs 27 pounds. Get ready to spend more!
I just got a bike with SRAM Eagle X01. It has DT Swiss hubs, and I hate noisy, loud hubs, so I wanted a new wheelaet with XTR hubs. Trouble is, the SRAM cassette isn't compatible with shimani's 12S microspline hub body. Is there any way to make this work? Otherwise I have to change the whole drivetrain including the shifters?
So if I have a Shimano XT 2x 11 M8000 , set up on my 2017 Trek fuel 9.8 ... will this 1 x 12 set up increase my range or remain the same? Is there any benefit for my situation. And if I do this upgrade is it safe to assume that I can just change the hub body on my Bontrager 108 rapid drive 29 inch rims.
Man I love your channel, I’ve been building a XC bike over the course of the year and you are my go to guru. Keep up the good work my friend, your a legend.
x2
Nobody else goes to the same level of detail that you do and I always come away from you videos with zero questions. Really appreciate your efforts 🤜💥🤛...... you're pretty much the reason my bike works so good.
When I watch your videos it reminds me of how much I dont know about cycling components. Another great video.
Thanks for detailed Informationen about XTR washer! Never saw this somewhere else! Now my Bronson turned into a silent bike, because this washer was missing! 👍👍👍
Just switched to a 2021 29 xc bike from a very old 2007 26 one a week ago, from 3x9 to 1x12, a HUGE difference, now I have have a complete XT 8100 groupset, I'm so happy with it, wish I had some XTR parts though, o also have DT Swiss wheels
XT is dope, enjoy!
Thanks for posting this. I've been sandbagging on my tech and am finally moving from 2x9 X0 to 1x12 XT. All the parts are on the way and this is helpful to know what I'm getting into before un-boxing.
One thing i'm happy about is that the SLX cassette costs about as much as an NX Eagle cassette, while it has more range and in terms of weight it's between NX and GX (which is almost twice the price). I think it's ridiculous where cassette prices are going. I remember in the old days when people said that 1x is cheaper because you have 1 less chainring, 1 less shifter, and no FD. Yeah, I guess that didn't exactly work out.
@@LoveMTB Yeah, the microspline situation is a bit strange, but i'm sure things are gonna change. After all, i'm a random guy on the internet, I know everything. 😁 Other than hurting sales, I don't understand what this "exclusivity" will achieve.
I was using a Shimano XT shifter with XT cassette and XTR rear mech just changed the shifter to XTR the difference was very noticeable. Since I have just bought a new mech and shifter I will wait a bit to upgrade but will definitely change at some point. Good video enjoyed the comparison, look forward to a field test.
Not sure what a magic, but xt-xt definitely will work better than xtr-xt, looks like shifter is feeling that on other end of wire is a stranger 😂🤣
Such a helpful guide, particularly the detail on low spacer/loose cogs alignment on SLX. Watched lots of how-to guides but yours is by far the best in this respect. Exactly the details I needed to get installation perfect first time. Thank-you and greetings from Scotland👍
Thanks for the feedback and cheers from Canada!
I don't care for 12 speed or micropline+, or reduced weight. Hyperglide+ is the biggst innovation imo and cant wait to see it on the road sets too.
It's one of those "Once you have tried it you never go back" things. Unless there's some sort of major durability issue I can't see myself ever considering something else.
You align the 12t using the splines, where the larger splines ones are aligned on 14t and 12t. Then you align 10t using the dot on 12t.
Everything is done in the right way by Shimano
I'm already on Shimano 12 speed XT and so far it is great.
@@LoveMTB Thats right. But I like XT 1x12 much more than XT 1x11. Biggest 51t does the job 😁
@@jromtbWhat do you prefer about it?
Perfect video! Saved me on my slx cassette bc my 2 yr old decided to re order it lol...👍🏼
I do find it better under power:) It also engages super quick. I was able to stop in the middle of a steep section, and get started without any trouble while jumping 4 rings:) I could not have done that on my old 2x11 xt.
I was using Shimano gear since 1993. Last year I tried sunrace cassette and this year SRAM crankset. Last week I bought Shimano cassette.
Now it's time to try SRAM eagle cassette
The cassette body shown in the video is a DT Swiss body. The gouging issue has existed for decades with off-brand cassette bodies made of aluminum to save a few grams, and Shimano cassettes. Solution: use a genuine Shimano Freehub.
Great video with lots of useful info as always, thank you! 👍👍👍
I hope we will see SLX on the new bikes instead of NX and SX Eagle. I found SRAM’s budget 12 speed offerings cheaply made low quality and replaced them with 11 speed XT.
@@LoveMTB Say I bought a bike with full SX Eagle groupset and was looking for improved shifting... Can I keep my current cassette, chain, and chainring and just swap out the SX Eagle Lever and Derailleur for a 12-speed SLX? Would you recommend picking up the XT Shifter as opposed to the SLX even if I went with an SLX rear mech?
Or am I better off picking up a GX Eagle rear mech and shifter instead? Unfortunately no XD Driver, so I couldn't upgrade the cassette unless I wanted to mess with the hubs...
Just got a Zerode with a Pinion transmission. A joy to ride, no more adjustments.
Nice!!!
Does not like to shift under power, but it isn’t a handicap because shifting is instant, without pedaling. Ease off for a fraction of a second, click, and you are climbing again. You can also jump 2 or 3 gears without waiting for engagement, which is great before an unexpected climb.
LoveMTB, you may have helped shed some light on a problem I've had for the last month Salsa Spearfish carbon SLX - creaking.
It almost sounds like a creaking saddle but you get the same sound, in our out of the saddle. All my pivots are tight and the sound - I've confirmed multiple times - is coming from the rear end. Same creak, on both sides of the power stroke. The only thing left is the chain and cassette.
I ride Alafia and Balm Boyette MTB trails, which means sand and a lot of phosphate. After nearly every ride I wash the bike, dry it off and use LOTS of Squirt.
I ride most Friday mornings for about 1.5 hours and a couple of days a week with the grandkids around the neighborhood. You wouldn't think I'd be having these issues in about a years time.
Then you mentioned that ring between the cassette and free hub. That "seems like" possibly the culprit. I wouldn't imagine it would wear out, it doesn't seem like a "wear item".
What do you think?
Thanks for your quick response - No, it's in any gear. If you're coasting everything sounds "normal" (the noise from the pawls has always been inconsistent since day one, sometimes click, sometimes it's silent). The only time it creaks - in any gear - is when it's under load while you're pedaling, on both the right and left side.
@@LoveMTB yes, SLX
Excellent content as always; thanks! My plan is to stay with 11spd SRAM (X01 cassette, GX mech, WT chainring, and X1 shifter), and go with the 12spd E13 upgrade once the cassette craps out. We shall see.....
I replaced my 2x11 shimano xt on my Procaliber Trek, with the new 1x12 Xt. I love it. It was a bit expensive since I had to change the hub, but I wanted to go 1x12, and I don't like the sram shifters (I know that's picky). My LBS also added the additional prawls for faster engagement in the hub. You really can shift under power. Because of another cyclist, I had to stop going up a really steep section that before I would have not been able to start in the middle of, but it was easy to shift 4 and engage instantly. Is it worth upgrading? Answer: depends on your cash flow. For me, yes. It cleaned up my handlebars, gave me a lower gear than the 2x11 (with a 30 front chain ring), and makes all of my shifting cleaner, easier, and more effective. In some ways it compares to sram Gx in other ways it is better. Depends on how important the shimano shifters are to the rider.
Thanks for all the detail, dude. Love it.
Thanks for sharing the information and video. I have been checking out micro spline freehub this few days and want to upgrade my 10 speed to 12 speed. I am ordering micro spline freehub and XT group set to install my own. I hope the micro spline freehub works perfectly fine on my hub and my wheel. Thanks once again.
@@LoveMTB It went very well. Thanks!
All i was looking for is in your video. thank you for all the details !
Glad to help
Compared to the X01, the XRT does shift much smother in both directions. What I don't like about the Shimano is the ISpecEV which makes it difficult to mount a XTR shifter to anything else that Shimano brakes. (there is no way currently to mount a XTR shifter to a Magura break for example)
A friend of mine has had 2 failures already with the XT cassette while riding in the smallest gear. Replaced the Microspline Hub the first time. Dropping off the bike again.
What kind of failures are we talking about?
@@LoveMTB, basically he was in his tallest gear(s) and the rings slipped, this damaged the hub splines. This was on a DB Release 2 and can only guess the factory didn't align the gears correctly when the wheel was built, knowing the problem his LBS replaced the hub and reinstalled the cassette correctly. DB didn't want to warranty this wheel on a bike less than a year old.
Sounds like an installation issue if you ask me...@@ericduch5087
Great video always providing the great level of info...just bought the XT groupset with microspline freehub on the XT wheelset for a new ebike project after watching your video. Thanks a bunch as always.
As usually, excellent explained.
Thanck you.
Nicely done. I think this is the first time I've seen your face! :-) Still loving my Sunrace 11-46T 11sp. More than enough for me.
I purchased the SunRace MZ90 11-50 based on your pervious video! It's been excellent and is lighter than NX Eagle.
Freehub damage at 2:47 is not due to loose cogs, it is due to harder matals indenting on the softer aluminum metal.
I haven't been happy with the durability of my SRAM Eagle GX drivetrain. Looking forward to Shimano on next bike.
I think I will wait for the 2021 bikes and look for something with XT, I will stick with my 11 speed XT/sunrace comb till then.
Hoa is the sunrace working for you with that m8100? I am getting into mtb and I am debating about buying new or used and upgrading to 1 or 2 by 11
Muito Obrigado!
Seu vídeo contribuiu na montagem do meu grupo XT e tirou bastante dúvidas.
Huge amount of good information here. Thanks.
Great video. Learned alot about my 12speed setup
I’m currently running SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain with an Absolute Black Oval chainring and the new KMC X12 chain on my 2018 Trek Fuel Ex 9.9.... Would love to eventually switch to all Shimano XTR down the road, but it will be a bit pricey!
After doing more research, I may just go with an XTR 9100 derailleur and upgrade the cassette and chain to the XX1 rainbow!
@@aaronalagos45 Oil slick/ Rainbow same difference.
I'm actually using Sram drivetrain, but that Shimano looks so damn much smoother.
What an great Video. So much effort - priceless! Thank You.
In order of your question at the end:
I am mostly happy but stuck, upgrading to 12 Speed,with my (old Version) 9-46 E13 Cassette an my XTR 9000 11 Speed derailleur and shifter...
What would you recommend for upgrading?
If shimano would just put all the cogs on a single spider or split all 12 cogs between 2 spiders, they wouldn't have a gouging issue anywhere.
Loose cogs are useful if you ride a lot on certain gears and a lot less on the others. That way you can replace single cogs if they wear out or if you want to change the number of teeth easily
@@sebastianjost but they dont sell per pcs cog in my country, and never seeing anyone does so
Great in depth video, love geeky stuff like this..
Makes me kinda wish to have HG+ cassette with XD-compatible mount. However, that would require the casette to have no loose cogs. I.e. it is either SRAM changing tooth profile or Shimano accepting SRAM's standard (which has no patent fee, I believe) and making their cassettes a whole unit.
Just ordered my new Trance 29 with SLX M7100. I honestly don't know what I'm more excited for. The new frame or new drivetrain?
Always loved the chunk sound on Shimano :-)
So HG+ does not work than ??
Have you ever tried running the shimano cassettes with eagle cable shifter and derailleur?
@@LoveMTB well this but with a mechanical sram shifter and derailleur..? I assume it would work..
I like the idea of using titanium cogs but aluminum is a pretty soft metal to use that as your rear cassette in your lowest range they should have an option all the Rings can be Titanium or even a lower grade option where the the two highest gears are just Steel
I’m a Shimano guy. Always have been, but I’d love to have the balls to take a gamble on SRAM. The shifting that is. Not the brakes. I still hate SRAM brakes
Depends what you’re after and what is your experience with right now
I'll be jumping all over that as soon as XTR di2 12speed come out... assuming it will still be compatible with the road di2 shifters.
Btw, have you experienced any issues using the wolf tooth ring together with the 12speed Shimano chain?
@@LoveMTB Cheer for the info, I had a feeling I would have to wait along time for that.
At least I don't need to worry about converting free hubs for a while :P
Keep the videos coming!
Hi, do You always use torque wrench for tightening cassettes? I've read this (only)one thread on forum where ppl were asking about Novatec's ABG system on freehub bodies. So overall ppl were not happy with it, cassettes were still biting in a bit and the steel plate was a stick-on so it had tendency to separate. And then there was this one guy, that wrote:"I always tighten cassettes with torque wrench and never had issues with bite damage to full alloy freehub bodies" So I'm wondering what's Your experience? I saw You still get bitemarks, but are they horrible, do they make removing cassettes difficult, how long it takes before freehub body is toast?
@@LoveMTB Thanks a lot!
very nice video, seems like we'll finally have an option for a full shimano 12 speed groupset on cheaper bikes now
Hallo my Friend. Are there any differences in spacing between the cogs because of the spacers? XTR vs XT/SLX? Are they x-compatible?
Weren't the spiders from the ols slx or xt cassette made from steel and therefore didn't have the issue?
Which setup would you recommend from a longevety point of view?
I need the xt shifter in order to shift 2 gears at once, but I only need 11 gears.
Im confused. I have nonboost frame (GT Sensor Carbon Expert 2014) with 12x142 Hope Pro 2 Evo (Im waiting for microspline hub, which will be avaible soon).
I want go from 3x10spd (24-32-42 + 11-34) to 1x12spd (36 + 10-51).
I know that new XT cranks has 3 variants (8100,8120,8130), which has different Q-Factor and chainline.
The 8100 crank variant says that it is for O.L.D. 142mm and 148mm together - but it has 52mm chainline. Isnt 52mm chainline boost?
Can I go with this cranks or not? My actual triple (FC-M780) has chainline 50mm.
BTW: XT 2x12 cranks has chainline 48,8mm....
I yjink i'm addicted to this channel---and all things Shimano
Thanks for your informative video. I have build my soft tail on a SLX 12s drive train with a 10-51T Cassette. In your video, you mention there’s no chain drop when you back pedal on its largest COG. However, for my build, I experienced chain drop when back pedal at the 51T COG. Not sure if you have any advise on any rectification.
I have a 148mm boost frame/hub and 457mm chainstay. Chainline at the crank is 52mm.
Changing the entire cassettes of 12 speed still can cost you a lot of money. hope it becomes more accessible in terms of the price.
Deore has the 12s already that doesn't need the microspline. which makes it very cheap
Can't deny the XX1 cassette is a work of art. Can I use a XX1 cassette with SLX or XT groupset?
What modifications / care need to be taken to make this work out?
@@LoveMTB Thank you! You're a rockstar!
@@LoveMTB I bought a HOPE FORTUS 30 rear wheel w/ Microspline so I've decided to go all SHIMANO finally to take advantage of that Hyperglide. I've come to understand that the XT chain is more durable than the SLX chain. But in your opinion, does the SLX Cassette fair as well as XT?
Also another imporant question: The XT RD comes in SG and SGS - would you be able to advice the drawbacks of the shorter cage? Will it negatively affect chain retention? Thanks in advance.
Can you buy individual cogs for the new shimano? I generally wear out the 12t cog (or 13t) as that is the gear I use for going downhill.
Is is possible to mix a Deore cassette with a xtr chain, same series? It seems to me the best bang for buck. Emtb.
Yes definitely
I think if you asked me this 12 months ago, I would have jumped on the XT 12 speed. After a year of SRAM eagle under my belt, I'm not sure I want to make that move. I'm not super impressed with 12 speed and feel the parts are wearing out too fast. Maybe the Box 9 is what i'll look to instead.
Update - XTR CS-M9101 12s already have spacer attached in it, same with the 8100 and 7100
Man, when I watch your videos, I get the answers I can't fine nowhere else!
For example, is 12sp SRAM compatible with 12 sp Shimano gear, etc...
Thx a lot!
Hmmm may be “compatible” but not the best set up for smooth shifting, easy set up and wear
is XTR good enough for MTB and mud?? I've heard they wear out quicker. Is that true??
@@MartinTeerly it’s true many use SLX for that scenario. Or XT
@@LoveMTB glad you reply. In UK XTR sales at £300 but I have a guy that wants £175 for a brand new one. XT at retail is under £99 so I better stick with XT, Thank you again for reply
@ you’re welcome
The gouging issue. That’s why I like Novatec’s ABG system but it will probably add weight. You would think they could have solved this in 4 years of development.
Great videos and explanations.
I building complet 12 speed Shimano drivetrain and have some new CN-HG901-11 speed chains left. Can you tell me, would this chain work with 12 speed cassette? As 12 speed is little narrower 5.25 vs 5.62 right?
I currently have the XTR 12 SPD that came new with my bike. However, I want to change the cassette for a better range since I don't use the big gears. I want to get the rotor 11-46 but I have had a hard time getting the hub for my DT Swiss XRC1200
Rotor has the old style Shimano hub splines or at least that was what rotor told me. So I haven't tried to do anything about it. When and if I wear the XTR cassette I will look into it.
Thanks for the reply. Another question.
My sprocket has a little play it will move back and forth a small amount if you push it and the chain is on the small sprockets . Is that normal
What type of adapter did you use to tightened the lock-ring hub?
It's a cassette tool, that's what's called. Might have it linked in the description😉
nice job as usual. i had no idea the Sram cassette would work with the Sh12 set up. like everyone else here (it seems), i too am not a fan of the ridiculous micro spline and multi-piece cassette. however, if the Sh cassette is required to get that exalted shifting i read about, under full gas, it's a must have for me. i never thought i'd care, but as i've been riding and contemplating the new drivetrain i can see i would use it a lot to maintain flow and just shift my way up so many climbs if an option . so we must know, does it work the same with the otherwise lovely Sram cassette?
@@LoveMTB interesting. and why is that? i gather you're happy with that set up that you've determined is best by trial and error.
@@LoveMTB and one more question, if you let. That's mean, if i will accelarate with middle load, middle power (without many-many watts) and will shift up i don't feel big difference, only slightly more sound? Noisier sound don't affect to wear of cassette/chain?
Hi I have a 12 speed Shimano with a kmc x12 chain would you suggest using a hyper glide plus Shimano chain many thanks
Hi! Being a different single chainring to the group, would we have any problems?
@@LoveMTB I think he might be talking about having a different chainring like a sram one combined with rear Shimano mech.
And as far as I know it should work fine
How does the XT M8000 compare to the M8100 is the difference in shifting very noticeable?
Actually it is, HG+ makes a difference
@@LoveMTB How much of a difference? I'm going from an old 2x9 and want to go 1x. Is it worth going M8000 how much more will I gain?
@@Leo-gt1bx #1 you gain more range
Question- Do you find the OVAL Chain Ring to be wearing out the clutch premature? it looks like it makes your derailleur move forward and back far more than a standard chain ring ... thanks
I m currently using slx group set on my mtn bike. If I have limited funding to upgrade. Should I go with xtr cassette or xtr derailleur,? I can only afford one of those two choices. Thanks
Definitely not the XTR cassette, and I would save the money and go XT derailleur. If you have to change anything...anything wrong with the SLX?
@@LoveMTB nothing wrong yet but the deraileur got hit a few times that I had to bend it back now it's working fine. Just thinking ahead eventually will need to replace something there might as well upgrade. So u suggest xt deraileur if I need to replace my slx one day in the near future? Wat about the chain? Should I go with xt chain or simply slx chain? They r interchangeable anyway
XT chain has more coatings on it, might last longer but not by much. Your SLX...if ain't broke, don't fix it🙂@@yuglobalcitizen2246
@@LoveMTB got you. Thanks a lot for your advice
Why do you think the low spacer is a separate detachable piece on the XTR while the one on the XT/SLX is a built in sticker?
Was the front chainring Shimano 12spd specific? If not how does it feel with the Shimano chain? Any grinding due to the plate configuration?
Hi great video does the 12sp microspline and cassette need any more space than the 11sp cassette and hg freehub fitted to 142 x 12 hope hub
Helped me out big time! Thanks 🙏
Hi thank you for that informative video. I have a Giant Trance 2 with a 11-46 SLX cassette, and want to upgrade to possibly an 11 speed 11-51t SLX, would I need to modify or replace my derailleur?
Alas, I'm at a point of replacing my XT 8100 Cassette with a SRAM one just to avoid the Micro Spline freehub use. I've had a terrible time with the Micro Spline Freehub. First problem, the splines were completely shaven at the tip of the hub. Replaced the Micro Spline freehub with a new one and now I'm having the same issues. I'm scared the Microspline Freehub is damaged again. I'm thinking the Cassette setup with these clogs make it easy to shave off the Micro Spline Freehub, especially since the freehub is aluminum.
The issue: Whenever I peddle under pressure, without switching gears, the drivetrain makes a loud gear switching sound and it feels like I'm skipping. It feels as if the cogs on the Cassette are spinning, skipping over the splines on the freehub.
Hey man, can u do a video on how to see if a groupset is compatible with different mtb. I am thinking of upgrading my trek marlin 7 running shimano acera 2x9 to probably shimano slx 2x11 but there are so many things and dimensions to consider with the bike. Need help on that, appreciate 😊
@@LoveMTB exactly what i needed!! Just finished watching both videos..Thanks for those videos omg i was lazy to check your older videos.. my bad! Running 1x drivetrain would be a good idea since i would love to cut down on the weight of my current bike. And one more thing, do u think 1x drivetrain would be more tiring to pedal around than 2x? I am using my bike to commute around the city mostly and throughout my life, i only had experience with 3x7 and 2x9 drivetrain lol
@@LoveMTB what would the ideal chainring size for the 11-46 cassette in your own opinion?
podelsf Depends on your fitness level, most recreational riders would use a 30 or 32, while sporty riders would use 34+
I have a 12 speed slx and I have a huge problem with the backpedaling, the chain drops just after 1/4 turn. Any recommendations ? thanks
do you need to use a Shimano cassette in order for the hyper glide shifting to work?
Hi! What yo can say about wear and durability of this cassettes сompared with Sram?
Shimano xt cassette and chain should work with sram derailleur and shifter? I'm hoping it will shift better under load being 108kg heavy weight haha. Also running a blackspire oval up front which I'm not happy with harshness it creates. Teeth don't seem optimised for 12speed.
@@LoveMTB yes, almost like the teeth are too wide for the chain, it's getting better with the more kms on it. I've got around 250km on the front ring now and it does seem to be getting smoother. It's especially noticeable when in the 50t with the chain line at its worse. The original eagle chainring was smooth as butter
@@LoveMTB 100% , cheers for the response.
I like the 12 speed slx drive train group with the slx 4 pistons break!
Nice review.
One question.
What chainring do you use with xtr chain?
How to identify if it is aluminum or titinum?
@@LoveMTBThanks
So right now I have an 8 speed and want to go to 1x12 drivetrain. So your basically saying I have to get this microspline hub thing. Also another question if I get this is it longer than any generic cassette "holder"?
Thank you for your detailed videos! I would like to know if shimano 12 speed cassettes can be mounted on a Mavic hub with 12x142 axle with any freehub micro spline, because you don't have one listed but ebay seems have seller that tells so! Have any suggestion? Thanks dave
Thanks a lot, I'll try!
I’ve just bought mine and can’t wait to install it. I only need to buy the chainring for my Shimano Steps and I can’t decide which size should I go for 34 or 36. The chain I bought has 126 links and, although temped to go for a 36t chainring, I am not sure if the chain is long enough. Anyone able to spare some advice?
Hello, i have. A question about the Slx M7100 1x12 groupset. I ride a 2019 27.5" GT Agressor Comp which has Formula QR Hubs. I am building a new back wheel for the drivetrain and was wondering if there was an adapter to use Trueaxle or if you could recommend a QR hub?
@@LoveMTB for sure, is there another brand you would recommend or should I just find an XT QR micro spline
How works this Woolf tooth (as understand, this chainring is not HG+ specific) chainring with Shimano 12 speed Hyperglide + chain, because WT says, that for this type of chain you need specific tooth profile chainring? Thanks
@LoveMTB, have you ever seen a lot of slack in a cassette stack? I have a new XTR M9100 cassette that didn't come with a spacer - I borrowed the slim spacer off of an SLX cassette stack and it helps with the "play" in the cassette. I've tried the XTR cassette on my Chris King Boost hub and an i9 Hydra. Same slack issue..
I’m not sure why the XTR low spacer wasn’t included in the box.
It looks like I’m about 0.8mm from a proper fit (I used the thin spacer from my SLX cassette just as an experiment).
I’m going to head to my local bike shop to have them take a look.
Thanks for your videos.
@@LoveMTB After a little more time spent this morning, I found that I was able to make the XTR Cassette fit great on my i9 Hydra and also on a Shimano XT hub I have.
I noticed that there is a silver (metal) lip that sticks up higher than the black MS driver body. This is preventing a flush connection of the last couple cogs to the remainder of the rest of the cassette.
I've looked at images of the King hub online and some have this silver lip and some don't.
I've reached out to the shop that built these wheels up for me and swapped the driver from XD to MS.
Strange hey?
Response from King: "Thanks for contacting us. That silver lip is the threaded end cap for our Microspline driveshell which the cassette lock ring threads into. It looks like the one you received was not installed completely. This is an easy fix with a Park Tool FR1.3, or similar style freewheel tool. That end cap needs to be threaded in so it sits flush with the end of the driveshell and torqued to 40 in/lbs"
Hi! How about the KMC 12spd gold chain for the XTR 12spd? Will it shift same as the new HG chain? Ty
Hi, I have complete NX eagle with shimano hub, maybe I could buy a cheap micro-spline hub and slx cassette are reuse the sram chain, chainring, shifter and derailler. Correct?
I want to change from 11-50 to 10-50
Thanks
LoveMTB Thanks!!!
LoveMTB Another question:
Do you have any idea if I can use only the driver on my hub?
This to avoid re doing the wheel
Hi what chainring are you using here
And how do you check the chain line?
LoveMTB had a lot of grinding with the XTR chain and Rotor Qring, not when hand winding, but under load, the elongated sideplates rode the teeth, had to grinde the sides of the teeth to make it smooth.... ROTOR Said it would be solved with a kmc quicklink......😂
Great video. What freehub body will fit my shimano slx 11speed cassette. I’m new to biking 😊
@@LoveMTB thanks brother, but I can’t seem to find one. Could you patch me with a link
I swapped my Deore12 speed for an XTR 12 speed cassette today. After installation I was riding and I could feel some grinding in the middle gears it shifted perfectly. The first two times trying to put the lock ring on something wasn’t quite right. Question there was a little plastic spacer on the free hub body when I pulled off the Deore. Should that come off? I also don’t remember seeing any spacer that goes on the free body first that came with the XTr.
@@LoveMTB Thanks for the reply. I took it apart after putting the Deore back on. The plastic spacer stayed with the Deore. I looked closely and felt the XTR. There was no spacer. After installing the Xtr the lock ring went on nice and I took her in the trails for a night ride. Even though my nite rider 1200 boost light failed the XTR cassette was smooth and grind free. When I get my Elite wheels Pro 33 I will have saved a full 2 1/2 pounds including a tire swap.
From Deore to XTR cassette? Wow, now THAT'S an upgrade 🤤💦
@@fra93ilgrande yes. The only way to remove considerable weight from the rear of a bike. Besides wheels and tires of course. Pay 6000 for a bike that weighs 27 pounds. Get ready to spend more!
I just got a bike with SRAM Eagle X01. It has DT Swiss hubs, and I hate noisy, loud hubs, so I wanted a new wheelaet with XTR hubs. Trouble is, the SRAM cassette isn't compatible with shimani's 12S microspline hub body. Is there any way to make this work? Otherwise I have to change the whole drivetrain including the shifters?
So if I have a Shimano XT 2x 11 M8000 , set up on my 2017 Trek fuel 9.8 ... will this 1 x 12 set up increase my range or remain the same? Is there any benefit for my situation. And if I do this upgrade is it safe to assume that I can just change the hub body on my Bontrager 108 rapid drive 29 inch rims.