Of course this isn’t the first time Shimano has offered 2 unique braking platforms within their top of the line XTR family, and really it’s a pretty clever concept.
For riders seeking the lightest possible braking set-up Shimano have developed the XTR M9200 range which combines an ultra-lightweight lever with a svelte 2-piston caliper, which will be perfectly suited to World Cup XC racers and the like. In addition, the brand have also developed the XTR M9220 family which caters to the needs of Enduro racers and riders seeking loads of braking power and modulation. The M9220 series features an alternate lever that boasts additional adjustment over the M9200 offering, and the system is then turbocharged with a powerful 4-piston caliper. Either way you go, both the M9200 and M9220 brake sets feature loads of premium details you’d expect from that quintessential XTR pedigree. And guess what? There’s effectively even a 3rd option within the new XTR braking family as Shimano have made it so that the 2 styles of lever and calipers are interchangeable, meaning you could run the super light levers with the 4 piston calipers if you wanted to. Cool, eh!
To quote directly from Shimano’s press release:
The brake levers feature Shimano ERGO FLOW technology and have been redesigned to move the pivot point closer to the bar, ensuring the levers follow the natural path of the rider’s finger when pulling the brake. The lever shape has also been refined with a new asymmetrical upswept design that meets your finger at its natural angle, encouraging an aggressive riding position and even weight distribution for better riding control.”
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key tech and features of the new levers and calipers:
Enduro / Trail Brake Lever
M9220
- ERGO FLOW Technology
- Smooth SERVOWAVE power curve
- Low-viscosity oil that remains stable over a wider temperature range
- Closer pivot point and upswept lever blade for natural braking motion
- New reach adjust dial on lever body
- I-SPEC EV compatible
- – Durable alloy lever blade
Enduro / Trail Brake Caliper
M9220
- Dual diameter 4-piston design
- Anti-rattle finned pad design
- Low-viscosity hydraulic brake fluid
- Caliper seals with consistent rebound speed
- One-piece caliper design for optimised rigidity and weight
XC Brake Lever
M9200
- Lightweight construction with carbon lever blade
- Magnesium master cylinder
- Low-viscosity hydraulic brake fluid
- I-SPEC EV compatible
XC Brake Caliper
M9200
- Lightweight 2-piston design
- Heat-resistant resin piston
- Low-viscosity hydraulic brake fluid
- Post mount
- Caliper seals with consistent rebound speed
For more info about the all-new XTR Di2 range visit your local Aussie Shimano dealer or browse: https://bike.shimano.com/en-NZ