Ok, this will be on every biking website today as the super strict press embargo has been lifted, however seeing as I was getting up at 4am to get a flight to Amsterdam I thought I might beat the UK sites at least ( though Dirt Mag I think might have got it up at midnight? ).
Just when you thought that XT was the perfect groupset for all-mountain use......
“Find your Flow” with the new Saint groupThe new Saint group, whilst sharing some features with the current group, is completely on many levels, and promises much, much more. Further increased rigidity combined with a lighter weight design should fulfil the needs of DH racers and mirrors the current gravity trend for faster and smoother trails. Again, in line with Shimano’s current trend of equisitely detailed products and attention to aesthetics , the appearance of this group is very technical and agressive; shiny black with subtle gold coloured details.
And here is the rest of the press release bumf...
4-piston Servo wave disc brakesThe Saint disc brakes are completely new and have been designed from the ground up. The result is dual-diameter 4-piston calipers that provide an incredible 50% more stopping power than the current BR-M800. The calipers also have an increased oil flow which should make bleeding a lot easier.
The brake levers feature Servo Wave technology that contributes to the brake power and offers excellent controllability and extra pad clearance as well. The levers feature a tool-free reach adjust and they have a beefy lever blade for optimal control.
Shimano Shadow SS & GSThe group includes a Shadow rear derailleur that minimizes the chance to damage the derailleur by hitting any object on the trail. However compare them with the current Shadow offerings in the XT and XTR groupsets and you’ll see that the Saint differs quite dramatically. Most notable is the super wide inner link that offers the additional stiffness that is so important in gravity racing/riding. Shimano managed to combine this additional rigidity with a remarkable weight saving of 100 grams compared to the current version.
The Saint rear derailleur has an increased spring tension compared to the other Shimano Shadow derailleurs. The exclusive feature of the Saint Shadow rear derailleur is without a doubt the bracket switch used to select usage with either close or wide ratio cassettes. Close ratio cassettes (23-28T lowest gear) are recommended for Downhill useage, wide ratio (32-34T lowest gear) for Freeride and All Mountain usage. The Saint Shadow derailleur is available in a short (SS) and a medium (GS) cage version. Which should appeal to all riders with single or double chainring setups.
Rapidfire Plus shiftersThe gravity oriented Rapidfire Plus shifters have been designed to combine a crisp shift feeling with 1-finger braking. They feature a short release lever stroke and Instant Release technology for a fast and direct response. Of course these shifters also feature 2-Way Release technology that allows the release lever to be operated in two directions. The new Saint shifters have been developed with an adjustable bracket to allow inboard and outboard mounting for optimum cockpit setup. Last but not least, they have an excellent mud shedding design.
CranksetsThe Saint cranksets will be much lighter and even more rigid (!) than current versions. There will be options for single and double chainrings. Both have been developed with HOLLOWTECH II technology and feature an extreme heavy duty spider arm and spindle. The new crank arm design allows more ankle clearance and the “honeycomb” designed bash guard has a great impact resistance. It has a steel pedal thread insert for extra rigidity. Single chainring options include 34/36/38/40/42T. Double: 36 x 22T compact drive crankset for All Mountain usage offers a wide gear ratio and a narrower Q-factor.
Front derailleurSaint includes a double specific mountain bike front derailleur, designed to perform with a 36x22T compact drive crankset. It has a very compact size with increased stiffness and improved clearance of the chain, chain stay and rear tire for an optimal compatibility with all kinds of full suspension frames. A wider and lower positioned inner plate reduces the chance of chain drop considerably.
Hub and freehubThe new Saint hub and freehub are around 100 grams lighter than current versions and they feature a standard size center lock mount which saves weight while maintaining strength. This also means that the Saint hubs are now compatible with the full range of Shimano center lock rotors too.The hub comes with Shimano’s tried and tested fully adjustable and easy serviceable cup and cone bearings, which are more durable under side loads (no one rides in a striaght line – least of all offroad!). Over Locknut Dimension (OLD) is 110mm and they feature a 20mm through axle for an ultra stiff fork/hub combination.
The bearings of the freehub have been positioned wider apart for increased stiffness. The freehub body has been developed with Shimano’s quick engagement technology that results in increased performance especially in technical terrain. The Saint freehub will be available in two versions. 135mm OLD in combination with a 10mm or 12mm through axle and 150mm OLD with a 12mm through axle. Sealings have been further improved for 400% better durability.
The new Saint: lighter, stiffer, better. Enjoy the ride and “Find your Flow…”
Availability in the market: August 2008
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February 08, 2012, 10:18:51 PM
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