In the same way that we would choose the X.9 shifter and mech in the SRAM line up, we love the SLX groupset from Shimano; it is stylish and does the job every bit as well as the more expensive groupo’s. Sure XTR is a fair bit lighter, but again, for the average downhill or freerider they cannot warrant the extra cost. The SLX shifter and mech pairing is superb, it shifts really well and is slimmer in profile than the SRAM mech’s due to Shimano’s Shadow system keeping it out of the way of trouble. We rate it.

£59.99 Rear Mech, £74.99 Pair of Shifters
Madison 0800 1300 598
www.shimano.com, www.madison.co.uk