SLX is the Shimano gateway into 10-speed systems, combining Dyna-Sys technology, low-profile Shadow rear mech design and robust build at a competitive price. The shifters may look a bit budget in construction and lack the precision internals of Deore XT, but they still shift fairly quickly with a light and snappy feel.
The derailleurs get a healthy dose of metal in their build yet still tip the scales at a reasonable weight, as does the cassette that features an alloy spider on its largest three sprockets. The Dyna-Sys triple chainset is the star here though. Stiffer than XT yet only a few grams heavier, this Hollowtech unit punches well above its weight. A directional chain completes the set, but as with other Shimano chains here is joined with a fiddly ampule pin – Shimano need to rethink this approach with their chains.