The most exciting aspect of the XT M8000 groupset for many riders is the 1x11 drivetrain option. Shimano nerds and fans likely know that company is an engineering powerhouse, and that Shimano holds more chainring patents than any other company. When the engineers were tasked to develop the 1x chainrings, they didn't have to worry about ramps or shifting gates, but the did have to nail chain retention and the stress imposed by the extreme chain angles and the large cog cassettes. Recent experience from developing stiffer chainrings from carbon, aluminum and stainless steel as composite rings delivered the super stiff chainring that mates to the XT Hollowtech II 96mm off-set crank arms. The challenge was the tooth profile.

The 1x11 chainrings are powered by Shimano’s Dynamic Chain Engagement. This is a slightly hooked and taller tooth profile that increases chain retention force by 150%, drastically decreasing dropped chains. Other companies have developed a narrow-wide tooth strategy, but Shimano opted for a consistent width that mates up perfectly with the HG-X11 chain. When combined with the locked clutch position of the GS M8000 Rear Derailleur, chain retention is exceptional, yet smooth and quiet through out the pedal stroke. The carbon-steel ring is incredibly stiff and the stainless steel chain ring teeth provide a long life of durable, consistent chain retention. The 32 tooth chainring is optimally run with the 11-42 XT Cassette for wide range gearing with the simplicity and efficiency of the 1x11 drivetrain. It's time. XT 1x11 is reliability and performance for the masses.