XTR is the oldest brake in the Shimano line-up and it’s definitely starting to show. With its angular two-tone finish it looks good, but the single-bolt split clamp needs to be nursed onto carbon bars to avoid scratching, and if you need to swap over and bleed the single-sided levers prepare to be patient, as it’s very hard to get all the bubbles out.
Despite cutaway looks and a single-piece calliper body it’s heavy for a top-end cross-country brake (449g), and the XTR’s alloy centre rotor (XT is pictured here) is also heavier than a conventional six-bolt unit.
The brake and rotor are sold separately though, so that may not be an issue, and we like the simplicity of Center Lock fitting if you’ve got a compatible hub.
In braking terms the XTR performed better than we expected on the dyno, recording average power in wet and dry conditions despite feeling a bit weak on the trail. Typically for Shimano it is reliable once you’ve eventually got it set up, though.
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.
