A month and a half ago, Shimano sealed the fate of SLX with the introduction of the new Shimano Deore groupset. Can the Deore replace the popular mid-range groupset? We take a look at what the new Shimano 12-speed drivetrain can do – and whether the revised four-piston brakes will still be relevant in 2026.
Shimano Deore groupset tested
The new Deore groupset is essentially a two-tier system. The SLX has only disappeared in name; the 7000 series part number remains and is integrated into the Deore range. Therefore, in our initial impressions of the Deore, we need to specify which "class" we tested. In our case, it's the higher-end of the two. The Deore M7200 cassette features a large aluminum bailout cog (like the older SLX) to save weight. The Deore M7200 rear derailleur we tested incorporates the new Shadow ES chain stabilizer, also found on XT and XTR Di2. Meanwhile, the Deore rear derailleur "one class below" (recognizable by the M6200 designation) still uses the classic clutch mechanism that proved successful in previous Shimano 12-speed groupsets. Only the shifter mechanism is shared by both classes.
An overview of all components of the new Deore group, including prices, can be found here: New Shimano 12-speed groupset unveiled
Shifting feel
The shorter lever throw on the new Deore shifter, as advertised by Shimano, is definitely noticeable and a positive improvement. Especially when upshifting, the lever engages very quickly and smoothly shifts into a higher gear. The crisp feedback during shifting is retained. Thanks to the multi-shift function, three gears can be downshifted with a single lever press; to shift to a higher gear, one press is required per gear. The knurling on both levers is also commendable, preventing finger slippage. Overall, the shifter makes a high-quality impression.
Switching under load
How does it perform under load? Hyperglide+, the shifting technology Shimano introduced with its 12-speed groupsets, designed for reliable shifting, is also featured on the new Deore. Even under heavy pressure, the Deore derailleur maneuvers the chain smoothly, albeit with a clearly audible click, across the cassette – both up and down. This is useful if you're in too high a gear on a climb or need to shift during a sprint. However, if it's not a human but an e-bike motor pulling on the chain, our experience has shown that a Shimano Linkglide derailleur is superior to its 12-speed counterparts. You can read more about what to expect from Shimano Linkglide in terms of wear resistance and shifting under load here: Shimano Linkglide in detail.
New chain stabilizer
And what about that much-discussed chain slap? Unfortunately, it's also noticeable on the Deore derailleur with the new Shadow ES chain stabilizer. In this new generation, Shimano has done away with the friction clutch in favor of a double spring mechanism – supposedly to allow for a narrower derailleur design. As a result, the initial resistance that the derailleur cage has to overcome to rotate forward is missing. Therefore, even small vibrations set the cage in motion, allowing the chain to move more freely. Depending on the frame, this can lead to an unpleasant noise.
Another consequence of the missing clutch: there is no longer a lever to reduce the cage tension for removing the rear wheel. The spring mechanism of the new derailleurs is permanently engaged, making work on the rear wheel somewhat more difficult.
Those who prefer the friction clutch of the Shadow RS+ derailleur are in luck: In the Deore range, riders still have a choice and can also opt for the cheaper M6200 derailleur, which is practically identical to the 12-speed derailleurs of the previous generation.
This is how the Deore M6220 four-piston brake performs.
Also part of our first test is the new Deore four-piston brake. The Japanese manufacturer has tweaked the lever design slightly and optimized it for modern cable routing. Otherwise, the organically shaped grip feels as comfortable as ever. The Servolink mechanism allows the rider to access a large portion of the braking power quite quickly; for maximum braking force, a bit more force simply needs to be applied to the lever. A major plus: thanks to the new 2,2 mm thick rotors, there's no more brake clatter, as the robust rotors no longer rub against the pads as easily after prolonged, heavy use.
The much-touted digital brake feel, as with the M6100, has somewhat disappeared; the brake is easy to modulate, and the Shimano Deore generally encourages the deliberate setting of strong braking points to maximize their effectiveness. Ultimately, it doesn't feel as powerful as the most powerful models on the market, but it always provides the rider with more than enough power. We can't yet assess how well the revised, low-viscosity mineral oil prevents pressure point wandering – we certainly didn't experience any problems. Overall, the Deore is a familiar, intuitive brake and therefore easily accessible to all riders.
