XT disc brakes have been exceptionally popular the last several years. Why? Great price point, excellent stopping power, and solid overall performance. Well, if you liked the M785 disc brakes, you are going to love the new M8000 version. When Shimano redesigned the XT group, every piece got worked over, upgraded, and improved. If it wasn't for the 1x option, the most talked about upgrade would be the disc brakes. We are talking about more stable brake performance in all conditions, with consistent lever position and action. You wanted smoother, more subtle feel, modulation and control with minimal free stroke? You have it now.

The BL-M8000 brake levers now feature a new, truly integrated master cyclinder. The design is slick, and has a very minimalist look to it. On top of that, the lever body is lighter, while the assembly has gotten stronger. The simple mineral oil service has also gotten easier. Shimano has carried Servo Wave technology down from XTR M9000, and the result is stunning. Power has improved, but more critically, modulation is now on par with XTR, and that is a huge plus. The Servo Wave lever was designed for high power, but delivers that power and modulation with a short lever stroke. Texturing at the two finger placements is improved. The function, feel and feedback offered deliver the best riding experience possible, and at XT level pricing.

Free stroke and reach adjust are still here, so you don't lose any set-up functionality. The new i-Spec II system allows for independent adjustment of the shifter and the brake lever, and is even more compact, given the the narrow brake lever clamp band. With the new master cyclinder and i-Spec II, the whole set-up is much cleaner looking and frees up bar space like never before. In conjunction with the sleeker, more stable disc caliper, you simply won't believe the difference. Disregard our earlier statement. 1x had to happen. It is great, and riders will enjoy the simplicity. But the best upgrade with XT M8000 is the disc brake system. Get your pre-bled lever and caliper set-up now and prepare to be blown away.