October 29, 2021 - Shimano’s new Linkglide drivetrain components are designed for increased durability while enhancing the smooth shifting that the brand is known for.Linkglide’s robust drivetrain components will have huge benefits for the e-bike market, offering a longer lifespan, less wear and tear, and potentially reduced servicing time.

The new technology is now available with Shimano’s Deore XT (1 x 11) and Deore (1 x 10) drivetrains and includes shifters, derailleurs, and cassettes. Tests found the new cassettes to be 300% more durable than Shimano’s lighter, performance-driven Hyperglide system.

Linkglide will also reduce chain skippage and require less fine-tuning while offering smooth, two-way shifting.

The new components have seen specific changes to enhance durability while maintaining performance. The cassettes have a new shape, thicker teeth construction and are available in 11-50 (Deore XT), and 11-43 (Deore) gearing. Linkglide uses Shimano’s current chains, with a new entry-level CNLG500 chain now available.

The derailleurs feature Shimano’s Shadow RD+ which helps reduce chain slap over rough terrain. The Deore XT shifter comes with an I-SPEC EV or bland clamp option, while the Deore shifter comes with the bland clamp option.

Linkglide is not compatible with other Shimano systems and will be available as an aftermarket product.

Shimano’s E-Tube Ride App
Shimano’s E-Tube Ride app allows real- time data and navigational information to be displayed from your smartphone. The latest version is more intuitive, with an easy-to-read display. It also allows previous ride data to be reviewed.

From your bar-mounted smartphone, you can easily follow your pre-set destination displayed on a map while viewing battery levels, speed, distance, cadence, power, and force vectors. You can access this information later to assist in planning your next ride.

The E-Tube Ride is compatible with other devices, including power metres using Bluetooth LE Cycling Power Profile along with Pioneer’s SGY-PM930H.

It can also automatically upload to Shimano Connect with more information available through Shimano STEPS and Di2-equipped bikes. You can upload your data and share your adventure with others via Strava.