Bikes & Gear

Reviews

Bike Features

Workshops

Buyers Guides

Gear Browser

Shimano Saint Rear Mech (09)
Change Currency What's this?

Shimano Saint Mech

BikeRadar verdict

4 out of 5 stars

"Fantastic shifting for hardcore riders, well worth a look"

Sat 18 Oct 2008, 11:00 am UTCBy Andrew Dodd, Mountain Biking UK

Unlike the original Saint behemoth of a rear mech, this new unit embraces low profile Shadow technology and ditches the built-in axle. We’ve clobbered ours a few times without any shifting problems or damage to it – this new unit is likely to outlast a lighter mech.

The spring tension is stronger than on previous Shimano mechs, which makes the shifting heavier, but it’s as solid as a rock through the rough stuff. The general build is ready to take a few hits.

Moving the rear mech are new slimline shifters that can be positioned on either side of the brake lever via their adjustable mount and utilise the two-way release – downshifting with finger or thumb – although sadly you can only dump one gear at a time, unlike the double shift option on the XTR.

The slightly stumpy design of the shifters looks really neat and they can be positioned exactly where you want them without the shifter being in the way, something that can be a problem with the longer release lever on the XTR unit.

We’re really impressed with the durability, function and appearance of the renovated Saint kit.

  • Rear mech: £79.99
  • Shifters: £44.99

About BikeRadar reviews: Our review scoring system has changed in 2010. Therefore recent reviews may have comparatively lower scores than past reviews. Click here for a full explanation of our ratings.

You need to login or register to post comments.


Please confirm you are a person by entering the words in the box below:

Bad Good    

Specification

Name:
Saint Rear Mech (09)
Built by:
Shimano
Price:
n/a

Description:
Shimano Shadow RD Technology: Super low-profile design. Shimano Shadow RD Technology: Super low-profile design. Integrated Skid Plate: Protects the derailleur when impact is inevitable. Integrated Skid Plate: Protects the derailleur when impact is inevitable.Increased Spring Tension: The spring has increased tension for more responsive shifts. Increased Spring Tension: The spring has increased tension for more responsive shifts. Options: GS mid-cage and SS short pulley cage lengths

Related links

BikeRadar is not responsible for the content of external websites

Also on BikeRadar