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How to choose an XT or XTR upgrade kit

Shimano XT and XTR upgrade kits add wireless Di2 shifting or Trail brakes to the 12-speed mountain bike you already own. Here's how to pick the right kit.

Check your drivetrain

Di2 kits suit Shimano 12-speed HyperGlide+ bikes with a Micro Spline freehub. They don't work with 11-speed LinkGlide.

Keep your cassette and chain

Di2 uses the same cassettes and chains as mechanical XT and XTR, so you only swap the derailleur and shifter.

XT or XTR

Both offer wireless shifting, Shadow ES and Automatic Impact Recovery. XT is the value trail pick, XTR is Shimano's top tier.

Long or medium cage

Long cage (SGS) runs 10-51T cassettes and suits most Australian riding. Medium cage (GS) runs 9-45T cassettes.

Clamp band or I-Spec EV

Clamp band shifters mount straight to the bar. I-Spec EV mounts to compatible Shimano brake levers for a cleaner cockpit.

Trail brake kits

XT BR-M8220 and XTR BR-M9220 kits pair matching levers and callipers for more control on steep descents.

Finishing your upgrade? Browse chains, brake rotors and brake pads to match.

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