Best bike shifters in 2020

With the beginning of the cycling season, many users are wondering about repairing their own bike, or assembling a new horse for the coming season.

In this world of speed and complete freedom, many manufacturers offer their own designs of transmission equipment, however, two representatives stand out from the total mass - these are SHIMANO and SRAM. Both competitors are manufacturers of high quality equipment designed for various levels of technology.

Specifically in the domestic market, the most popular lines of equipment are designed for off-road or everyday use by Shimano. Therefore, today the attention will be focused on it.

SHIMANO for mountain models

By the right of greater popularity, the first on the list is Shimano, a Japanese brand with a long history, offering users a line of equipment from the simplest to the flagship models designed for the world stages of racing on asphalt and off-road. The following is a list in ascending order.

SIS

Opens the rating of the simplest class of equipment designed for installation on children's or teenage bicycles. The range includes switches made of the simplest grades of steel and plastic. Regarding the safety factor, the models are sufficient for infrequent city trips and rare off-road moments.

The set of equipment includes front and rear derailleurs, as well as shifters designed for 18-21 gears.

The kit is installed, as a rule, on models that do not exceed 8-10 thousand rubles at a cost.

• minimum cost;
• huge prevalence.

• not the best quality.

Tourney

The second stage of entry-class equipment from a Japanese company. Like all production models of a low type, it is produced in China.

The equipment package includes front, rear derailleurs, cassettes, chains and monoblocs or trigger switches.

The group is intended for everyday driving around the city from point A to point B. At the same time, it is not allowed to use on off-road or unpaved paths in active mode.

In terms of strength, the models are slightly superior to the most initial type, thanks to the use of better springs and metal.

Supplied complete with bicycles for about 10,000 - 20,000 rubles.

• minimum price;
• prevalence.

• low quality;
• great weight.

Altus

Equipment positioned by the company as a line that can withstand everyday travel at a moderate pace in the city or light off-road.

The equipment performs well during business trips, outdoor activities or short hikes. However, Altus is not categorically suitable for aggressive use - there is a risk of "ruining" the throws at the most crucial moment, which is fraught with a possible fall.

It is noteworthy that this type has a modification of the front derailleur with attachment to the carriage assembly - it is very convenient in some cases when it is impossible to install an analogue.

This is the minimum class where 7 or 8 positions cassette bushings are allowed.

The version is usually mounted on bikes costing 17-30 thousand rubles.

• prevalence;
• adequate cost.

• does not withstand aggressive driving;
• significant weight.

Acera

Next on the list is a model that is approximately on the same level as Altus. The plant is positioned as a transmission that allows you to feel confident on city streets and moderate soil. There are already sets for 24 and 27 speeds.

Due to its low cost and sufficient reliability, it is considered one of the most popular user-grade transmissions. However, in some situations, consumers do not like the cumbersomeness and some constipation between gears - the speed of reaction of the transfer to the user's actions leaves much to be desired, which does not allow use even in the simplest races.

It is also from this position that the level of derailleurs compatible with hydraulic brakes begins, with the exception of non-serial modifications made to order by factories that assemble ready-made bicycles.

It is completed on models whose price tag is at the level of 17-30 thousand rubles.

• adequate cost;
• acceptable build quality;
• ease of setup and installation.

• designed for moderate riding rhythm;
• significant weight.

Alivio

The list continues with a line of equipment designed for amateur bikes. In addition to switches, the series includes bushings, cassettes, connecting rods and brakes.

It is used by users for outdoor activities in the city or on forest trails. Additionally, the structures have a sufficient margin of strength and quality, which allows their use as tourist parts of the initial type. Many aspiring cyclists use this particular equipment.

It is found on ready-made bikes with a price of 30,000 to 60,000 rubles.

As a rule, serial modifications are designed for 24 - 27 gears.

• moderate price tag;
• acceptable build quality;
• you can drive through the forests.

• does not withstand aggressive driving;
• significant weight.

Deore

Quality equipment of an amateur level. The transmission of this class is capable of withstanding active use on roads and forest trails. It differs from simpler counterparts in increased reliability and build quality.

It uses stainless steel and high-quality composites, which makes it possible to increase the strength of the parts, while not losing much weight.

There is also full compatibility with hydraulic brakes.

Used by amateurs who do not go in for sports professionally.

It is usually installed on mountain bikes, the price tag of which exceeds 85,000 rubles.

• moderate price tag;
• build quality;
• good responsiveness;
• can withstand decent loads;
• stainless steel and expensive composite elements are used.

• significant weight.

SLX

The list continues with a class of equipment designed for amateurs moving to a professional level or users who give heavy loads with frequent use.

The models integrate polymer composite compounds, stainless steel, and also have excellent reliability indicators, which is extremely important during aggressive driving.

Most cyclists prefer this class due to the optimal ratio of cost and quality.

A decent speed of reaction to commands is also a nice bonus.

In 2020, it is installed on bicycle models that cost from 90,000 rubles.

• moderate weight;
• solid performance;
• optimal strength.

• will not pull extreme use.

Zee

A striking representative of the budget category, designed for the toughest clay disciplines.

The excellent workmanship is complemented by increased reliability to ensure an adequate safety margin.

For ease of maintenance and to minimize parts, the rear bulkhead can be attached directly to the frame if available.

Also, the drivetrain kit is designed for 10 speeds, so there is no front derailleur as such, but where Zee is used, it only gets in the way.

The equipment is found on bicycles from 200,000 rubles.

• original design;
• phenomenal structural strength;
• low weight;
• full integration of carbon;
• use of stiff springs for maximum chain stabilization.

• standard bearings are used.

Saint

A flagship line designed for the toughest disciplines, downhill skiing. In fact, the mechanisms are similar to the line of the previous stage, but there is one significant plus - the weight of the structure is reduced and the bearings are replaced with ceramic sleeve bushings.

Very often you can find the line at professional competitions and world cups downhill, Free Ride.

Of the minuses, users call a solid price tag of the kit. The equipment is installed by the plant on bikes worth 350,000 rubles.

• phenomenal durability;
• very attractive design;
• maximum efficiency.

• the price tag can shock the untrained user.

Deore XT

Representative of the professional line of Shimano equipment. The highest quality and minimum weight allow the models to be actively used in various competitions or on long hikes.

The complete set of equipment includes the entire bike ride, complemented by the highest quality braking systems.

You can often find this range on bikes designed for Cross Country or light Free Ride. Also, some users drive with might and main on this type of DownHill transmission.

The line fully implements the use of the manufacturer's advanced technologies, the rear transfer rollers are made on an industrial bearing, there is a complete integration of carbon fiber and high-strength polymers, which allows to reduce weight and increase the reliability of components.

Occurs on bikes from 350,000 rubles.

• excellent performance;
• can be used for tough disciplines;
• Beautiful design.

• the cost is far from democratic;
• professional tuning required.

XTR

The absolute flagship of the manufacturer, designed especially for professional races of various kinds. The structure contains only the most advanced technologies of the company. Fully integrated design of carbon and titanium elements, which allows to reduce weight to the limit and increase reliability.

Many of the world's top riders prefer to use this particular equipment.

There is also a division of the line into two classes, Race and Trail. The first is the most expensive, premium segment, the second, due to the use of less expensive materials, can be used in everyday driving.

It is found on factory bicycles that cost from 60,000 rubles and more.

• a flagship with superior performance.

• the price is affordable only for sponsors or wealthy users.

SHIMANO for touring models

The branch of the manufacturer, intended for use on tourist models, deserves a separate mention.

As a rule, samples designed for tourism differ from mountain mechanisms and a margin of safety.

Deore

It is an analogue of mining equipment.The design differences include a longer leg of the rear crossover (loosening on bumps is not critical for tourism, and a connecting rod with large stars is used, which forces the use of an elongated element).

Also, the weight varies slightly - the rock parts are stronger, therefore the mass is greater.

The cost of a bike built at the Deore level is about 80,000 rubles

• moderate price tag;
• good responsiveness;
• can withstand decent loads;
• stainless steel and expensive composite elements are used.

• slightly lower durability relative to off-road modifications.

Deore lx

Continuing the list of equipment used on touring or hybrid bicycles designed for heavy loads. The kit includes elements of brakes, derailleurs and chassis.

The line has no analogues among mountain structures, which makes it maximally aimed at tourism.

Products are created as simply as possible - this is necessary for the possibility of repair in the field. You can completely replace the drive cables and readjust the derailleurs or brakes using the standard set of hex keys that any cyclist has.

Also, the series is characterized by the use of contact pedals and rim brakes.

Found on bikes costing 150,000 rubles or more.

• beautiful design;
• excellent durability;
• minimum weight;
• high maintainability.

• impressive price.

Deore XT

The configuration of the XT tourist model differs slightly from its off-road counterpart. As in the main Deore series, the units have excellent prototyping quality with a difference in some design features, such as contact pedals instead of standard pads and V-Br brakes instead of disc hydraulics.

The equipment can be seen on models over 150,000 rubles.

• excellent workmanship;
• excellent maintainability;
• attractive design.

• price.

SHIMANO for urban or hybrid models

Apart from mountain and tourist equipment, equipment designed for urban or hybrid models can be distinguished into a special group. This decision was made due to the particular popularity of the variety in large cities.

Capreo

Narrow-duty drivetrain designed specifically for comfort in mid-range folding bikes.

Transmission units are distinguished by modified gear ratios relative to serial off-road designs.

Cassettes are rated for 9 positions and cranks are usually 1 or 3 stars.

It is used on bikes costing around 100,000 - 150,000 rubles.

• ensuring optimal performance on road models;
• reasonable cost.

• very narrow scope of purpose.

Nexus

Representative of the urban class. The series includes a planetary transmission designed specifically for city bikes. There are several different modifications for 3 gears. There are bushings with and without a foot brake.

Many users are pleased with the high bearing capacity of the structure - the maximum axle load is up to 120 kg. It is also worth highlighting the ease of maintenance, for the bushing it is enough to replace the grease before the season and you can drive around without fear of breakdowns all year round.

The equipment is often found on models of bicycles designed for city riding every day.

Some mechanics note the phenomenal survivability of the installation - without maintenance, the "planetary" is capable of driving for several years. The total service life can exceed 30,000 km, depending on maintenance.

The cost in stores is around 3500 - 5000 rubles.

• phenomenal vitality;
• basic service;
• does not require frequent calibration.

• total weight of the structure.

Alfine

Not so popular, but more advanced line of equipment. The designs contain 11 gears and are used by tourists or sportsmen.

The advanced series has increased performance compared to Nexus units, and also has less weight. Separately, it can be mentioned that the range is often used not only in urban bicycle designs. Some brands install these planetaris on mountain bikes.

Relatively simpler models, Shimano uses bevel gear technology for this class of bikes, which allows for smoother gear changes and less time spent on the procedure. It also uses an oil bath instead of the usual thick grease, which helps extend the life of the gearbox and triples the unit's service interval.

• excellent switching quality;
• compatibility with mountain models;
• application of flagship developments.

• the price tag bites.

Sram Switch Kits

Cyclists familiar with the specifics know for certain that the American brand Sram is a direct competitor to Shimano's company.

Although the brand is not very widespread in Russia due to its proximity to Asia, the spare parts offered by this brand are not inferior in quality, and in some cases even exceed Shimano's offers. The corporation develops equipment designed to operate in severe climatic and physical conditions.

Therefore, for completeness of the story, it is necessary to tell about the models of this manufacturer.

X3

The simplest ruler for budget bikes. Unlike the competitor's components, the manufacturer installs stiffer springs on its springs, thanks to which it is possible to avoid loosening of the springs during strong shaking.

The minimum number of speeds is 24, which limits the use on the most budget bikes. The cost of a ready-made bicycle on such equipment is about 25-30 thousand rubles.

• simplicity of design;
• light weight;
• stiff springs.

• the rollers of the rear transfer are quickly erased.

X4

Medium price branch of custom parts. The X4 level can be compared with Alivio. Analogs have approximately the same characteristics.

The main difference between the American device is a different switching principle and the gear ratio of the shifter with a shifter, which significantly increases stability during shaking.

Models of bicycles are completed in the range from 35,000 to 50,000 rubles.

• optimal functionality;
• compatible with hydraulic brakes;
• significant survivability.

• the switching accuracy is lame relative to the top models.

X5

Top line designed for 24 speeds. In terms of the level in the general table, the model corresponds to Deore and can be used for tourist trips and active rides on unpaved paths.

The kit includes sprockets, shifters, shifters and cranks, which allows you to fully equip the bike with equipment of the same manufacturer and level.

This is also where the use of stainless steel and high quality plastic begins to lighten the weight.

• excellent switching accuracy;
• stability on large bumps.

• are more expensive than the analogue of Shimano.

X7

A full-fledged category that includes semi-professional parts designed for active use in harsh environments.

The specially designed transmission offers 9 to 27 speeds. And the use of composite elements significantly affects the overall weight of the structure.

The shifters are fully compatible with equipment of lower categories, which saves on equipment.

It is found on bicycles, costing from 80,000 rubles.

• great design;
• are able to work for a long time at the given parameters;
• light weight.

• requires skillful calibration;
• high price.

X9

An example of a semi-professional class, presented to the public as a worthy analogue of the SLX class transmission.

At the same time, Sram equipment can be used for Downhill or Freeride and at the same time, the parts have sufficient weight for the Cross Country disciplines.

An excellent combination of CFRP, steel and aluminum made it possible to create samples worthy of participation in the competition.

On factory bicycles, equipment is installed from 150,000 rubles.

• excellent accuracy;
• combination of price and quality;
• universality of application;
• the ability to replace the rear derailleur foot

• cost.

X0

The next variation on top-end equipment. The components are distinguished by a high content of carbon and aluminum elements, which guarantees a weight reduction of the entire set of equipment by more than 500 grams.

The product is designed for professional use in racing, long endurance races.

There are only two options for gear combinations: 2x10 and 3x10.

The crossovers show phenomenal accuracy and stability during heavy shaking, and the chain and stars have special grooves that guarantee lightning-fast response to the rider's commands.

It is used on bicycles from 400,000 rubles.

• excellent combination of weight and strength;
• minimum response time.

• huge cost.

XX

The company's flagship, fitted only to the most advanced bike models. All equipment is designed for maximum weight reduction, so attachment to the handlebars is done using Match Maker X.

Superior build quality, coupled with minimal weight, allows for use in the toughest conditions and disciplines. It is noteworthy that the design of the perekidov is made in such a way that even those stuck with clay continue to function properly.

Aluminum gears with ceramic slip bushings are used as rollers. For the easiest switching in the shifter, several elements have been added to ensure accurate dosage.

Installed by the factory on ready-made bikes from 500,000 rubles.

• the personification of the manufacturer's flagship technologies;
• phenomenal survivability in difficult conditions.

• space price tag.

There is a great selection of bicycle derailleurs available today. Modern developments can improve the lives of ordinary users and professionals.