Shimano SLX 11 Speed – shifting perfection for under £350

Finding the balance of performance and budget is always tricky, but as far as transmissions go – Shimano SLX is king.

The shifting performance, durability and outstanding value for money really can’t be beaten. However, SLX has had a couple of things against it since SRAM brought out their budget GX transmission – it was still 10 speed. And it wasn’t pretty.

But for 2017, there is the brand new Shimano SLX 11 speed transmission.

And it’s a stunner!

Shimano SLX 11 speed Cranks/Chainring/BB from £160

So you get the best option to suit you, UK importer Madison offer the cranks, chain rings and BB’s as seperate items. We have rounded the price on what we have for review.

1. HollowTech II Chainset features hollow forged crank arms which are both lightweight and rigid whilst being incredibly strong and durable
2. HollowTech II integrated bottom bracket design uses a wide bearing placement with a large axle diameter for increased stiffness, efficiency and added durability
3. 70 degree spider arm for optimal rigidity
4. Shimano SLX 11 speed DYNA-SYS11 SM-CRM70 chainring
5. SM-CRM70 chainring teeth feature Shimano’s new Dynamic Chain Engagement technology offering enhanced chain retention, driving rigidity and highly efficient

Shimano SLX Shadow + 11 speed Rear mech | £69.99

1. Revolutionary features from XT and XTR at an affordable price point
2. Shadow + features a super low profile design that reduces the risk of damage from trail side hazards
3. Single tension spring with on/off clutch minimises chain slap
4. Direct cable routing prevents snagging from any trail side hazards
5. Alloy and steel construction leads to lower weight without compromising strength and durability
6. Two fluorine-coated link pin bushings aid slick shifting on the trails
7. Strong return spring for a positive shifting feel
8. Maximum low range sprocket: 42T (double), 46T (single)

Shimano SLX 11  speed Shifter | £36.99

1. Tough, aggressive and light weight Dyna-Sys11 11-speed SLX Rapidfire shift levers with Vivid indexing and 2-way release function
2. Light to the touch but positive and crisp, Vivid indexing provides a constant amount of shift lever force across all 11 sprockets
3. 2-way release allows shifting by the thumb or index finger
4. Removable optical gear display allows the use of these shifters with any brake lever – no fouling like previous units

Shimano SLX 11 speed Cassette | £74.99

1. 11-40 and 11-42
2. Light weight minimal design sprocket carrier
3. Hyperglide sprockets have a computer designed tooth configuration with contoured shift gates, resulting in a crisp smooth shift even under load
4. Compatible with existing Shimano freehub bodies
5. Close ratio gearing allows a more efficient use of energy through finer cadence control
6. Sprockets are cut away and drilled to reduce weight without reducing rigidity

In addition to the phenomenal new Shimano SLX 11 speed transmission are the new brakes. Not that the last brakes needed any improvement – they rate as our all time top performing no-fuss brakes – but now they look every bit as stunning as the top of the range XTR.

Check these bad boys out!

Brake Levers | £39.99 each

1. Servo Wave hydraulic disc brake levers offer exceptional control and modulation
2. Short stroke Servo-Wave mechanism for quick pad engagement and more power for aggressive riding
3. Tool free reach adjustment for custom lever feel and position
4. Mineral oil brake fluid is non-corrosive and less hazardous than conventional hydraulic brake fluid
5. Hinged clamp for quick installation
6. I-spec-II compatible

Calipers | £39.99 each

1. Front or rear wheel use for International Standard or Post mount with adapters (not included)
2. Oversized 22mm ceramic pistons optimized for heat insulation, lightweight and stiffness
3. Opposed 2-piston design reduces leading effect and optimal pad wear increases braking control
4. Increased pad to rotor clearance reduces the chance of rotor drag in muddy conditions
5. Forged calliper monobody design is lightweight and rigid
6. One way internal fluid circuit makes bleeding easy
7. Mineral oil brake fluid is non-corrosive and less hazardous than conventional hydraulic brake fluid
8. Can be used with Ice Tech pads

The SLX brakes are available as separate components – or complete units ready to use for £94.99 each. Combined with rotors, you are looking at £230 for a full set, ready to bolt on and hit the trails.

The total cost of SLX 11 speed transmission with a chain works out at under £350 for what we have here – making it one hell of a bargain. 

As you read this, Matt is bolting the lot on to his bike and will be out in the grime doing his best to wear it out.

We’ll report back soon!

What do you think of Shimano SLX?

Or are you more of a SRAM man?

Let us know in the comments below!

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