In that case if you've checked XTR you would probably say that this is for the lifetime part (and if not raced, probably is..). If you want to know, yes ... there is a difference, slight but it exist and no kind of trickery-magic can reverse ones approach to XTR as soon as you have privilege to test them thoroughly. BTW Shimano is way cheaper in EU than SRAM :/ sorry.
I’ve worked in high end shops installing the fanciest of stuff, but never did I get more excited than when Shimano would release a new bargain bin group set. It’s always amazing to see how much old school high tech can be squeezed into a sub-$40 derailleur.
Very happy Acera user here 😊 have one on my cross check running 10 speed, wide range double. Cost £15 ( UK). Now I feel vindicated, PLP seal of approval 😊
I'm another happy Acera user in the US. Both the front and rear derailleurs on my 1999 MTB are the original Acera s that came with it. After 25 years, they're STILL doing the job! Why would I change?
With all my cheap bike I never had a single problem regarding shifting. This Acera/Alivio drivetrains works so reliably. My guess for them to have a bad reputation might be because all the beginner users who buy entry level components and don't know how to operate or maintain the bike correctly.
@@Glebaka Talking from my experience Alivio RD-M3100-SGS 9 speed and Acera RD-M360-L/S are perfectly serviceable and they cheaper not because of the "low quality materials" they are made of steel!!! The pricing as everything high performance is about the weight. My main bike has a complete 105 groupset and I have been impressed by the cheaper offerings for what they are.
@@Glebaka Yes you are correct, in the ones I mentioned it is the same, to clean them I just put the derailleur inside a container with degreaser and shake it until all the gunk is disolved. then proceed to oil everything back. Now it you are losing spring tension that's a different story and I can agree with you. But if you can get 2 years of daily commute for a 25 dollars piece I call it a win.
It's great how you keep doing great research and keep coming up with ideas that make so much sense in this sale driven bicycle industry. Please do keep these videos coming.
Take a look at the microShift Acolyte derailleur as well. I've been running it on my hardtail and it's been bombproof. The cool thing with microShift is that 8-speed Acolyte, 9-speed Advent, 10-speed Advent X, and the new Sword groupsets all use the same cable pull and are mostly interchangeable. Shimano CUES before CUES existed!
Have you tried running an Acolyte with an Advent/Sword brifter? I've got 2 flat bar bikes with Acolytes and love them but looking to build a drop bar bikes with brifters
everything mtb shimano is compatible since 10x. you can combine a 10x 780 shifter with a 12x 8100 on a microshift 10x cassette and it works perfectly. to make it even more wierd..... sram uses the same ratio since 9x. you can put any of these components in the mix as well. "cues" is pure marketing-BS. btw: box also uses the same ratio......
For many years, mountain bikers rode derailleurs without clutches and nobody complained about dropped chains. People sure do ride harder today than they did before clutches came out, but I think for most people a clutch is only needed because we've gone 1x.
My current MTB is a 1x9 with no clutch (MicroShift Advent) and with a narrow-wide chainring on it, I’ve yet to have any dropped chains on that. I could see it happening if I was doing chunky stuff constantly, but even then, it’d have to be a pretty big hit and in a pretty small gear to have that be an issue, IMO. Clutched derailleurs probably make a lot more sense when you’ve got wider range cassettes _and_ hitting chunky drops in the fast gears, but yeah, a lot of the times I see people saying “oh no clutch, that’s bad” it’s on bikes that are perfectly fine as-is.
I dropped a chain with my 2x grx setup(w/ forgetting the clutch off) the other day going down some steps on my gravel bike. With it on, never was an issue.
people were running larger chainrings, smaller cassettes, AND chainguides. Nobody runs chainguides anymore, partly because of clutches, partly because of narrow wide rings, and partly because it's very hard to accomodate especially wide range cassettes.
After seeing this video, I decided to try this, so I ordered and installed the the Acera RD-M3020 derailler and CS-HG400-8 11-40T cassette on my old hybrid with a 3x8 speed Alivio drive train. What an upgrade! Went from 34T to 40T and that gave me 19.5 gearinches, down from 23 gearinches, and it also shifts better, even with the original 8 speed Alivio shifter!
Let's remember the clutch was introduced to improve chain retention without a front derailleur...I run a 1(38T) x 9(11-36) w/Altus on my commuter/run-around and after a day of multiple dropped chains riding over the rougher urban stuff, I still have use an old front mech as a chain keeper, which I have no issue with as everything runs fine year round. I run & prefer SRAM on my fast bike but nothing beats Shimano for affordable reliability.
Also giving the spring more retention is pretty simple, depending on the RD model. Just dismantling and drilling a hole farther away for the coil spring will potentially eliminate chain slap. I believe it's an old trick that racers in the 90's did, but it's not talked much.
@@HulluJannethis is exactly what I’ve been contemplating on doing to my old xt. On some there is already a second hole but I imagine drilling a 3rd would improve and add even more tension to achieve a clutch-like feel.
I use a 10 speed Zee RD with 11-36 and 40t narrow wide up front. The narrow wide is mounted to a double with a 26t granny gear and front derailleur. 90% is ridden on narrow wide but bailout there for steep stuff. Shifting up front takes a little finessing to go back up but works everytime.
I think this illustrates a point you made a while back: it’s not the rear derailleur that matters most. I admire your boldness in trying weird combinations of component. I hope to pick up an Uno just because, but also to use it to really embrace friction.
*sees blurred image and gets curious* *clicks on vid to find its the same derailleur I just put on my MTB like 2 weeks ago* Yes i can attest that it is a nice derailleur for the price.
Almost the same gearing my modified first generation Bridge Club has - 38-24t rings with same cassette. The crank is a Shimano Deore 2x10sp model that's gearing choice disappeared as soon as 2x11 arrived. I'm glad you tested the range of that derailleur. Keep up the good work showcasing harder to find parts.
Ohh this is really interesting, thanks for highlighting this rd capacity…I’ve got a feeling that this rd would be compatible with all the older and non 4700 7,8,9 and 10 speed brifters…excellent budget build option!
I'd like so see it laying on the table next to any older long cage derailleur to find out what exactly Shimano couldn't do for several decades to accomodate bigger cassettes. Because from photos this Acera is identical to, say, T4000 Alivio
Ive been running my soma wolverine single speed and have been procrastinating putting gears back on it. This has motivated me to go this route and try it
I have a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid MTB. It came with an Altus stamped crank and Acera front and rear derailleurs. When I had it refurbished/overhauled, I had a new crank put on, so I could swap out the chainrings if I so desired; right now, I'm running a 42/32/22 tooth chainrings on the new Shimano Hyperdrive crank. I run a 7 speed cassette out back with 14-32 teeth; they go 14-26 for the 7th to 2nd cog, and the first cog is 32 teeth, my bailout gear. Since I had a new crank and chainrings installed, the LBS recommended swapping out the cassette and chain as well; this, I did. I still have the original Acera derailleurs, both front and rear, on the bike. I've taken that MTB on some sandy and muddy trails; I've ridden it on miles of fire roads in the NJ Pine Barrens; I've ridden it on canal trails and bike paths; and I've ridden it on the street. Guess what? After 25 years, those Acera derailleurs are STILL doing the job! Who cares if they're not flashy? Who cares if they don't have the right name? They still work, and they still work well. I just hope that, if I ever have to replace either of my derailleurs, that I can get new Acera derailleurs... 😁
I have a Shimano ALTUS RD-M310. It is also worth a look. I use a 15/18/21 Speed Friction Thumb Shifter Set originally presented by Shimano in the last couple of years, but 'Win Win' is the latest provider of the design, and it is flawless on my 8 speed.
I bought a new budget runabout last month. A Ghost Square Cross with 3x9 Alivio and Accera mix. It was crazy cheap with big reductions only £369 for the whole bike. Was going to upgrade instantly but this channel has made me appreciate that old school and budget setups are good so im going to run it stock. Proberly will have less issues than my 1x mtb and 1x gravel bike 😂
A few years back I managed to make my 2x9 with a mix of Sora and Deore 9S parts. The range is 24/38 and 11-40t. it needed some real finessing to get the shifting right but I'm very happy with it right now. I have had friends who were walking their bikes overtake me while I riding up hills.
You had me sold when you said it was "less blingy" ...Bike snobs won't get that, and I like that. Win-Win...Most regular people just want something that works well as a replacement derailleur. Nice job! 😎
Wow, you've hit the hammer bang on again! I have the Acera RD-M360 on one bike and Altus RD-M280 on another, both run fine up to my personal max of 9 index speeds using flat bar shimano / microshift and (incredably) Sensah Ignite drop bar shifters. They last forever and I bought them on €50 seconhand bikes from the 2010´s. Would be nice with a clutch but can't complain at the price!!
Good find!!! This looks even better than the Alivio derailleur that I’ve installed on my two bikes! I’m able to run a 2x system with an 11/36 and a 40/26 with the Alivio, for about the same price. You may have found my next derailleur.
@@francoispaquin9996 It’s a Sugino wide/low crankset that Rivendell used to sell. They sell a similar one now under the Clipper brand. It works well for me!
My mountain bike has a lower end rear derailleur. I've ruined it twice, hit a rock with it, and something else. Less than 50 bucks to replace. My biking buddy had a really nice derailleur, I could replace mine many times over for the cost of his. I'm not always sold on the pricier stuff.
Durache? I am totally with you on the lower end components. I have an Alivio groupset on my Dawes Galaxy; I've put alt bars and hydraulic disc calipers and used it for all kinds of riding, including gravel. It's quietly and efficiently done it's job and never let me down. And the triple at the front winches me up any hill in Cumbria.
I was so excited to get my grubby mitts on a GRX 10spd rear derailleur. Everywhere online, out of stock...and the local shop had it (for around $65ish, I think). Turns out, I hate it. The inline "shadow" whatever means you can't easily remove the rear wheel. The small cogs get caught on the derailleur, plus, when you do manage to remove the wheel, the chain falls off the top pulleywheel, making it more fiddly to put the wheel back in.
This Acera RD also good for 9&10 speed indexed. It’s compatible with following Shimano indexed shifters range; 9-speed mtb/road and 10-speed road (pre Tiagra 4700) in both DCL and Flatbar style.
Acera and Alivio supported up to 9speed but this new generation Acera only support up to 8 speed. these two are absolutely a good reliable gorup-set and good for all purpose on a budget.
8,9 speed is just right in terms of durability, price and range. i never go further than 9 on any of my bikes. Price for chains and parts goes up like crazy after 9 speed.
@@Exgrmbl smh there are always deals on 11 speed components, so that they are often cheaper than 9 or 10. But true, nothing beats 8. And until only recently 11 speed was the only option for 1x drivetrains.
Any Shimano SIS (i.e. for indexing) rear derailleur that is 9 speed or less (except 8 speed and under Dura-Ace, and anything CUES), or 10 speed or less for road bikes, will be compatible with 6, 7, 8, and 9 speed shifters (and 10 speed road shifters). So this derailleur will work fine with pretty much any 9 speed components.
Awesome. Bring on the trickle up. Maybe you could make some small party pace stickers (or something else) to go over the acera logo? That might make it feel even better.
There’s also a less expensive 10 speed variant of GRX RX 400, clutched, (about $75), which has a 41 tooth capacity officially, but works up to 47 I think. I have it on my Kona Sutra 2x 30/46. It came with a 11-36 cassette, which I replaced with a 11-42 XT, giving me a 585% gear range. Runs well, no wolf tooth required. In fact if installed WT will bend the b screw overtime, so better without it. With that said, I do want to go lower on the chainrings for bikepacking in the mountains - Russ’ 40-24 is ideal for that.
Kona Rove here, exactly as you've mentioned at the end, I'm looking for something steep grades for hours worthy. Thinking about some pizza in the back, like 48 or even 51 and front in the twenties. Not yet sure how to build this, but I'm guessing deore rear 10 speed + no_idea front + microshift friction shifters. Any input welcome!
I have an Alivio rear shifter on my 2020 Trek FX3, and at first I was really disappointed with it's performance. I decided to try to replace the cables, and that's when I found out that Trek had routed the shifter cable under the bottom bracket through some cheap liner which had gotten all torn up and was causing resistance. After fixing that, it's been pretty good.
When I changed my rear cassette to 11-42T and my existing 8 speed derailleur couldn't get into the 42T cog, I did some research on my own and I ended up getting this same derailleur ($20 off ebay). Fun that I came across this video now and feeling even better about my purchase. I use it with the SL-M315 rapidfire shifter with no problem.
Two years ago, I decided to upgrade the drivetrain in my folding bike. The only old thing was the rear derailleur, a Shimano RD-M410. I went from 7 speeds to 9 speeds. I paired a SunRace shifter with said derailleur and a SunRun 11-42T cassette. The combination works flawlessly. Recently I decided to buy an 8-speed S-Ride 11-36T cassette for my road bike. I did not change the derailleur, a Shimano Claris RD-R2000-GS medium cage, and it works without any problems. I forgot to mention, the folding bike has a 44T chainring and the road bike has a compact crankset.
May be a dumb question but why not use a long cage 9speed Advent Derailleur with the friction shifter? it has a clutch and supports 42tooh and I believe up to 46tooth.
I can't imagine ever actually cycling a 24-42. Generally I get off and walk way before I get that low! 😅 It's hilariously awesome that you can do this with such a "budget" or "low-end" derailleur.
I have used the older Acera and Alivio derailleurs with 9 and older 10 speed groupsets with 11-32 and even 11-34 cassettes on road bikes as the pull ratios are the same as 7 and 8 speed systems. These older bikes with 53/39 chainrings paired with an 11-34 cassette now have a similar gear range to modern compact gearing 50/34 and 11-30 cassette. A much cheaper way to upgrade these old bikes.
Thanks Russ. I’m just about to build my first bike. Starting point is the Velo Orange Pass Hunter frame, great deal at $599. You have inspired me to build a bike that you can’t get from the big 4 and I’ll give this derailleur a try. Keep up the great work. Enjoy your day.
I've been using clutchless derailleurs on mountain bikes up till 2012 and they were fine. If you have a front derailleur it'll keep the chain on when bouncing around. Clutches are handy for 1x as ride-stopping chain drops happen off the front chain ring. But that still happens. That's why a front chain guide is used. These days the sound of chain slap is the biggest benefit of a clutch. But a foamy Lizard Skin chain stay protector can muffle that too.
Just bought an Acera to use on my old-school Bridgestone 700 that needed more gear range, partly on all the praises you and Grant Petersen poured onto the low-end Shimano stuff. Excited to try it out!
I have a big cargo bike that has been electrified with a high torque motor running an Acera derailleur for years now. It has never once needed an adjustment, creaked, shifted improperly, or really had any issues at all. And this is a bike often carrying +100 lb loads, going up hills, and moving quickly.
I have been talking about that 3020 for years (20€). I run it with a 3x8 system. In the back I use 11x40 Shimano cassette and it works flawlessly. It's also cheap as hell. The setup including the cassete (CS-HG400-8 - 25€), chain (kmc or shimano 7-8 speed chain - 10€) and a new rear shifter (SL-M315-8R - 10-15€) costs 70€ top. And with a 3x (24/32/40) or 2x on the front you are all set. Yep no clutch, but a nice pad on the chainstay does the job. I use it on my hardtail. Cheap reliable what more do you want. And on longer journeys I have a spare, yep for 20€ you can have a spare. And I'm a lot more freeminded as if I brake it it's so cheap to replace.
Just a few weeks after I retrofitted my commuter/touring roadbike with an acera rear derailer you post the vid to finally vindicate that decision! Love the vid even before seeing all of it!!
In my 1x setup I have a Shimano Deore rear derailleur with clutch mechanism. I was getting dropped chain every 10 miles of riding, specifically while in higher gears. Installed a $20 chain retainer piece over the chainring that solved my chain drop issues
I've run 46-30 and 42-24 with 42-11 with Sora shifters 9 & 11 speed with 105 shifters and bar end shifters. all with Alivio, Sora, STX, XT and 105 rear derailleurs using a hanger extender as well. Indexed road shifters can be used with a multitude of combinations of gear sizes front and rear. If you use MTB rear derailleurs only 9 spd or less will work with indexed road shifters. I find that gear ratios too high that come with bikes as standard these days. Chris Froome I am not, so I've experimented as well. This channel is great, doing the experimentation for us.
I'm looking for something steep grades for hours worthy. Thinking about some pizza in the back, like 48 or even 51 and front in the twenties. Not yet sure how to build this, but I'm guessing deore rear 10 speed + no_idea front + microshift friction shifters. Any input welcome!
That's funny to see this right after I pulled the Acera rear derailleur off my old mountain bike and threw it on this mixed build tripple bike when the Ultegra derailleur it came with didn't have the capacity needed to handle the triple and the 11-28 cassette. Just put 30 miles on it and it was smooth as butter.
This is great. Thanks. I'm so glad you check this stuff out in the Cave of Bad Ideas. If I ever do the bike-touring build, I'll use my Ciclo Uno and a setup like this (except that means I'll have to take the Ciclo Uno off my road bike... don't ask...
I have Shimano Deore 9 speed rear derrailleur on my road bike setup 50/34 with 11/42 cassette and on my mtb to gravel conversion, 36/24 with 11/42 cassette. The road is setup with 10 speed brifters and the gravel with 9 speed. In order to use the cassettes and not having to add a derrailleur hanger extender is changing the b-tension screws with a longer one. On the road bike I had to move the front derailleur up a bit to clear the 50/42 combination. For both setups this is the maximum the derrailleur can handle in a 2X setup. You can still find new deore for $50 bucks on e-bay. But both setups is like having a 1X hybrid with plenty of gearing when things get steep.
I have decades of working on my own bikes, if I was going to build a new packing bike I would go to the new Acera with friction shifters and maybe a 105 at the front! Pretty much the same build on the video. They're bullet proof! I'm not so keen on the Acera shifter/brake lever combo though. Ps. we rode without a clutch in the rear for decades and didn't know we were missing it. Check out Microshift too! They've come along.
Oh i feel i must mention that my previous derailleur was b-twin that came with the bike. I also paired the new derailleur with a set of shimano ef-500 rapid fire brake/shift levers and man i love them! I ride a medium decathlon rockrider100 with a 3x7 setup. Am currently contemplating a new crank set. I am a shimano fan boy. Have been since I was a kid so I tend to stick with that brand. Alternately I would love to get a internally geared or CV rear hub but... I absolutely hate re spoking wheels.🤷♂
fantastic solution for affordable groupset with an amazing range. My only worry is that friction shifting is not super handy when in the hoods as I need to move my hand to shift and it's not super close to brakes if I need to engage them.
I'm old enough that I remember when Shimano first used the model name Dura Ace on a centerpull brake, before they repurposed it for their new, showpiece group that was to compete with Campagnolo. I've always pronounced it as two words, never as "Doorahchay," but I like it! It rolls off the tongue, like the short-lived Santé.
Russ is using friction shifters but this 8 speed will happily work on 9 speed index road/MTB. Just ordered 2x Acera’s for my kids bikes. For them it’s an upgrade from Tourney TX. Still no clutch but I’m pairing it with bigger cassette and bigger NW chainring.
Someone tossed out an old frame with guess what Mech was on it. I installed the Acera and barely had to make any adjustments. Works amazing on an old Italian Legnano. Its kinda spooky actually. fit like a glove
The Shimano Acera group set was originally on my 3 X 8 Diamondback Mountain bike with a 42/32/22 front and 11-32 cassette and fell for the 1X 10 hype with the Shimano Deore derailleur 38T up front and 11-42 cassette. I had the Ultimate range and never had problems with it. No chain drops and I reduced the chain slap noise by cutting an old inner tube and wrapping the chain stay with it. The bike does look better and is lighter with a 1X though.
good that it works well. As it is a 2x8 has really got to be the "entry level" decent range 2x. On a x7 you're limited to like, a 34t with a mega-range freewheel, where as once you hit 8 you can get 40+ cassettes, as silly as that can get for distance between gears. So you'd be wanting a 3x7 or a 2x8 to get the range, unless you have any tips for what to do if you find yourself converting a bike with a freewheel. Other than "don't" or "replace the wheels" of course :P
Though I've been running a knock-off goatLink to get my sora to handle a 40. I wonder if this one can make it to a 46+ with the same, though you do end up with fun on the small gears then
If you are running 2x you don't need a clutch as much because the front derailleur helps keep the chain on the front chainrings. If you are running 1x, a clutch is needed more as is a chainring with a deeper tooth profile.
ive done it with a grx800 on 46/30. ive got a friend and she's a wild one and did a grx400 rear mech to 11-42 cassette on a 48/31 bombtrack chainrings 2x
On my 1500W Ebike it lasted about 3 days. The derailleur cages bent, and that was it. The MTB rated parts are much stronger there. I'm used to Rapid Rise, and run gripshifters. So my shifting habits are not typical. The long cage can get pushed into the spokes in urban riding, especially on 26" bikes. I prefer mid cage options due to that. For most people none of this applies. But you do get more for your money with the higher rated parts.
I agree that clutches on gravel bikes are not always necessary. I’m running a retro m952 rd and I’ve had no issues with chain slap even going down trails
Russ if you get a chance, check the SunRace RD-M10. It's a 10$, steel, friction-only derailleur that even Riv sells. According to them: "Frictions up to 8, Wraps 35 teeth, Max rear cog, 28t, Wt: 255g"
My fairly humble 5120-SGS is a great way to get a huge range. It’s 1x and 2x compatible with both 10s and 11s. Shimanos specs are weird but it’s identical to the m7000 SLX rd that is 1/2x 11s but I just replaced the 5120 with the 7000 and they’re 100% cross compatible and even visually look nearly identical.
After my XTR broke the prices had jumped , I couldn't justify the cost on a child carrier bike. This works great for road style STI shifter up to 10 speed (not the Tiagra 1:1 exception). I tried it with a 105 and now I have it working with a Sensah Phi 2x10 setup.
I was also pretty stoked to find Shimano released an affordable rear derailleur with such a large max cog. Better yet, one that’s backwards compatible! However, having seen their entry level derailleurs after moderate use, I am disappointed by the durability and build quality of these latest derailleurs. I often see these derailleurs (and other Acera / Altus models) coming into the shop with large amounts of play on the parallelogram as things wear. The indexing soon becomes inconsistent and unreliable, and the derailleur needs replacing. This is less of an issue with friction shifting, of course, but if running indexed shifters, I wouldn’t rely on this derailleur if you use your bike regularly. As Russ mentions, I’d like to see this type of max cog size find its way onto more premium models. A touring grade version of this would be wonderful!
People always chasing expensive components while complaining about expensive components are just idiotic. I have used Alivio for more than a decade, never had a problem with its reliability, quality, and price. 38t-28t chainrings, 9-speed 11t-36t cassette.
I just splurge on the M7000 SLX for loaded dirt touring. 24/32 x 11-46. (gonna change that big ring to a 36 someday) Shimano says you can't run a double with 11-46T but mine hits all the gears no problemo. I'm on flatbar shifters though.
I think the one aspect that prob doesn’t get mentioned enough is that before you decide to do the same experiment on your own bike - especially with rear derailleurs - always check and think about how the cable routing from the seatstays or chainstays will be affected… Certain RD’s don’t work very well when the cable exit points are in certain angles/distances relative to the position of the cable anchor bolt. Just because it works well on one particular bike that you see on a RUclips review may not necessarily have the same result on all bikes….so DYOR
Actually, all the modern "low end" shimano (altus, acera, alivio) rd can all reach up to 40-42t without any goatlink. Sometimes even the old ones. I got an on older altus (the one in silver and black with a large pulley wheel) on my folding bike and it can manage up to 40t pretty easily. I also have an older deore rd (9 speed) that can also go up to 40-42t. All hail the lowend shimano's!
Awesome tips for side stepping component compatibility issues, reducing costs, extending riding options, great content thanks ……………subscribed and liked
this is perfect timing im selling my mountain bike with a 50t 9s on and want to keep my rapid rise for my next bike and have been looking for a good cheap derailleur to sell it with i think this will be perfect and i know full well a derailleur like this can handle a 9s 50t with a hanger extension (or maybe without one if im lucky)
Dear PLP, thanks for all your patience and effort for making such interesting and educating videos. I appreciate your love and passion for cycling lifestyle! Now, about this particular Acera 3020 RD- if we neglect the fact that it works with 40t cassette, and for example want to use it with 8 speed cassette (32-34t) , will it work better than vintage XTR m900 (m910,950) or XT m737/ 739? In my area, both Acera 3020, and above mantioned vintage XTR/XT (in good condition) are about 30$. Thanks a lot in advance, and best regards from Serbia
Shimano are always massively conservative with the maximum sprocket size their rear mechs. I use similar set up but with current R7000 105 rear mech which gives 11 speed for under £60 - My set up is 11-40T 11 speed cassette and 30-46T up front (crankset is ultegra triple set up as a subcompact double)
Modern "low" end components are simply amazing. Robust and affordable.
In that case if you've checked XTR you would probably say that this is for the lifetime part (and if not raced, probably is..). If you want to know, yes ... there is a difference, slight but it exist and no kind of trickery-magic can reverse ones approach to XTR as soon as you have privilege to test them thoroughly. BTW Shimano is way cheaper in EU than SRAM :/ sorry.
Disagree, shimanos off-road low-end is dogshit
@@michalwiktorow2188 That's why I'm always so surprised about these prices, a Deore 2x RD-M5120 is also 30 eur and has a clutch.
Trickledown Economics? Not so much. Trickledown Technology? Hell Yeah.
I’ve worked in high end shops installing the fanciest of stuff, but never did I get more excited than when Shimano would release a new bargain bin group set. It’s always amazing to see how much old school high tech can be squeezed into a sub-$40 derailleur.
Very happy Acera user here 😊 have one on my cross check running 10 speed, wide range double. Cost £15 ( UK). Now I feel vindicated, PLP seal of approval 😊
10 sp 11-42? Curious to try on mine, currently my chainring is 42t
Where!!?? Am trying to upgrade my bend 3by 8 and it seems I have to go Chinese just to justify to throwing the bike away
I'm another happy Acera user in the US. Both the front and rear derailleurs on my 1999 MTB are the original Acera s that came with it. After 25 years, they're STILL doing the job! Why would I change?
"And the reason why this works is because of course I'm using a friction shifter." Tell it Russ.
With all my cheap bike I never had a single problem regarding shifting. This Acera/Alivio drivetrains works so reliably. My guess for them to have a bad reputation might be because all the beginner users who buy entry level components and don't know how to operate or maintain the bike correctly.
They work great but usually not very long bcs of cheaper parts and worse serviceability in comp. with pricier parts
Yeah, they wear out quickly
@@Glebaka Talking from my experience Alivio RD-M3100-SGS 9 speed and Acera RD-M360-L/S are perfectly serviceable and they cheaper not because of the "low quality materials" they are made of steel!!! The pricing as everything high performance is about the weight. My main bike has a complete 105 groupset and I have been impressed by the cheaper offerings for what they are.
@@YuichiTamaki i have sora r3000 rd , and for exmpl i can't service arm spring bcs its riveted,
@@Glebaka Yes you are correct, in the ones I mentioned it is the same, to clean them I just put the derailleur inside a container with degreaser and shake it until all the gunk is disolved. then proceed to oil everything back. Now it you are losing spring tension that's a different story and I can agree with you. But if you can get 2 years of daily commute for a 25 dollars piece I call it a win.
One upvote and I’ll put this on a 2020 madone SLR.
Pics or it didn’t happen
Upload the vid soon 😂
44 upvotes and you'll put them on 44 madone SLRs?
Give me pic!
2020? I'm sorry your practice is going so badly
I think that this is great channel and also 'side' subject, showing people what options there are, and what are their real pros and cons. Well done!
It's great how you keep doing great research and keep coming up with ideas that make so much sense in this sale driven bicycle industry. Please do keep these videos coming.
Take a look at the microShift Acolyte derailleur as well. I've been running it on my hardtail and it's been bombproof. The cool thing with microShift is that 8-speed Acolyte, 9-speed Advent, 10-speed Advent X, and the new Sword groupsets all use the same cable pull and are mostly interchangeable. Shimano CUES before CUES existed!
Have you tried running an Acolyte with an Advent/Sword brifter? I've got 2 flat bar bikes with Acolytes and love them but looking to build a drop bar bikes with brifters
everything mtb shimano is compatible since 10x. you can combine a 10x 780 shifter with a 12x 8100 on a microshift 10x cassette and it works perfectly. to make it even more wierd..... sram uses the same ratio since 9x. you can put any of these components in the mix as well. "cues" is pure marketing-BS.
btw: box also uses the same ratio......
For many years, mountain bikers rode derailleurs without clutches and nobody complained about dropped chains. People sure do ride harder today than they did before clutches came out, but I think for most people a clutch is only needed because we've gone 1x.
And maybe dual suspension needs a clutch more than gravel does.
My current MTB is a 1x9 with no clutch (MicroShift Advent) and with a narrow-wide chainring on it, I’ve yet to have any dropped chains on that. I could see it happening if I was doing chunky stuff constantly, but even then, it’d have to be a pretty big hit and in a pretty small gear to have that be an issue, IMO.
Clutched derailleurs probably make a lot more sense when you’ve got wider range cassettes _and_ hitting chunky drops in the fast gears, but yeah, a lot of the times I see people saying “oh no clutch, that’s bad” it’s on bikes that are perfectly fine as-is.
Seems like the noise of chain slap is no longer cool as it'll distract from the sound of your $300 high engagement hub.
I dropped a chain with my 2x grx setup(w/ forgetting the clutch off) the other day going down some steps on my gravel bike. With it on, never was an issue.
people were running larger chainrings, smaller cassettes, AND chainguides. Nobody runs chainguides anymore, partly because of clutches, partly because of narrow wide rings, and partly because it's very hard to accomodate especially wide range cassettes.
After seeing this video, I decided to try this, so I ordered and installed the the Acera RD-M3020 derailler and CS-HG400-8 11-40T cassette on my old hybrid with a 3x8 speed Alivio drive train. What an upgrade! Went from 34T to 40T and that gave me 19.5 gearinches, down from 23 gearinches, and it also shifts better, even with the original 8 speed Alivio shifter!
Let's remember the clutch was introduced to improve chain retention without a front derailleur...I run a 1(38T) x 9(11-36) w/Altus on my commuter/run-around and after a day of multiple dropped chains riding over the rougher urban stuff, I still have use an old front mech as a chain keeper, which I have no issue with as everything runs fine year round. I run & prefer SRAM on my fast bike but nothing beats Shimano for affordable reliability.
Also giving the spring more retention is pretty simple, depending on the RD model. Just dismantling and drilling a hole farther away for the coil spring will potentially eliminate chain slap. I believe it's an old trick that racers in the 90's did, but it's not talked much.
Depending on which spring you do the mod, you can either have just more chain retention or possibly run a slightly bigger cog, or both.
@@HulluJannethis is exactly what I’ve been contemplating on doing to my old xt. On some there is already a second hole but I imagine drilling a 3rd would improve and add even more tension to achieve a clutch-like feel.
@@HulluJanne I'll open it up and have a look, I'm just weary as things aren't made they way they used be :). Thanks for the tip!
I use a 10 speed Zee RD with 11-36 and 40t narrow wide up front. The narrow wide is mounted to a double with a 26t granny gear and front derailleur. 90% is ridden on narrow wide but bailout there for steep stuff. Shifting up front takes a little finessing to go back up but works everytime.
I think this illustrates a point you made a while back: it’s not the rear derailleur that matters most. I admire your boldness in trying weird combinations of component. I hope to pick up an Uno just because, but also to use it to really embrace friction.
*sees blurred image and gets curious*
*clicks on vid to find its the same derailleur I just put on my MTB like 2 weeks ago*
Yes i can attest that it is a nice derailleur for the price.
Almost the same gearing my modified first generation Bridge Club has - 38-24t rings with same cassette. The crank is a Shimano Deore 2x10sp model that's gearing choice disappeared as soon as 2x11 arrived.
I'm glad you tested the range of that derailleur. Keep up the good work showcasing harder to find parts.
Ohh this is really interesting, thanks for highlighting this rd capacity…I’ve got a feeling that this rd would be compatible with all the older and non 4700 7,8,9 and 10 speed brifters…excellent budget build option!
I'd like so see it laying on the table next to any older long cage derailleur to find out what exactly Shimano couldn't do for several decades to accomodate bigger cassettes. Because from photos this Acera is identical to, say, T4000 Alivio
Ive been running my soma wolverine single speed and have been procrastinating putting gears back on it. This has motivated me to go this route and try it
I have a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid MTB. It came with an Altus stamped crank and Acera front and rear derailleurs. When I had it refurbished/overhauled, I had a new crank put on, so I could swap out the chainrings if I so desired; right now, I'm running a 42/32/22 tooth chainrings on the new Shimano Hyperdrive crank. I run a 7 speed cassette out back with 14-32 teeth; they go 14-26 for the 7th to 2nd cog, and the first cog is 32 teeth, my bailout gear. Since I had a new crank and chainrings installed, the LBS recommended swapping out the cassette and chain as well; this, I did. I still have the original Acera derailleurs, both front and rear, on the bike.
I've taken that MTB on some sandy and muddy trails; I've ridden it on miles of fire roads in the NJ Pine Barrens; I've ridden it on canal trails and bike paths; and I've ridden it on the street. Guess what? After 25 years, those Acera derailleurs are STILL doing the job! Who cares if they're not flashy? Who cares if they don't have the right name? They still work, and they still work well. I just hope that, if I ever have to replace either of my derailleurs, that I can get new Acera derailleurs... 😁
I have a Shimano ALTUS RD-M310. It is also worth a look. I use a 15/18/21 Speed Friction Thumb Shifter Set originally presented by Shimano in the last couple of years, but 'Win Win' is the latest provider of the design, and it is flawless on my 8 speed.
RD-M370 SGS are £12.99 in UK, definitely worth a look.
I bought a new budget runabout last month. A Ghost Square Cross with 3x9 Alivio and Accera mix. It was crazy cheap with big reductions only £369 for the whole bike. Was going to upgrade instantly but this channel has made me appreciate that old school and budget setups are good so im going to run it stock. Proberly will have less issues than my 1x mtb and 1x gravel bike 😂
A few years back I managed to make my 2x9 with a mix of Sora and Deore 9S parts. The range is 24/38 and 11-40t. it needed some real finessing to get the shifting right but I'm very happy with it right now. I have had friends who were walking their bikes overtake me while I riding up hills.
This was a great review! Thank you for always not promoting the latest, greatest, most expensive products!
You had me sold when you said it was "less blingy" ...Bike snobs won't get that, and I like that. Win-Win...Most regular people just want something that works well as a replacement derailleur. Nice job! 😎
Wow, you've hit the hammer bang on again! I have the Acera RD-M360 on one bike and Altus RD-M280 on another, both run fine up to my personal max of 9 index speeds using flat bar shimano / microshift and (incredably) Sensah Ignite drop bar shifters. They last forever and I bought them on €50 seconhand bikes from the 2010´s. Would be nice with a clutch but can't complain at the price!!
Good find!!! This looks even better than the Alivio derailleur that I’ve installed on my two bikes! I’m able to run a 2x system with an 11/36 and a 40/26 with the Alivio, for about the same price. You may have found my next derailleur.
Which crankset do you use?
@@francoispaquin9996 It’s a Sugino wide/low crankset that Rivendell used to sell. They sell a similar one now under the Clipper brand. It works well for me!
How is it better? Alivio has more capacity, unless you're talking about the old version.
My mountain bike has a lower end rear derailleur. I've ruined it twice, hit a rock with it, and something else. Less than 50 bucks to replace. My biking buddy had a really nice derailleur, I could replace mine many times over for the cost of his. I'm not always sold on the pricier stuff.
Durache? I am totally with you on the lower end components. I have an Alivio groupset on my Dawes Galaxy; I've put alt bars and hydraulic disc calipers and used it for all kinds of riding, including gravel. It's quietly and efficiently done it's job and never let me down. And the triple at the front winches me up any hill in Cumbria.
I was so excited to get my grubby mitts on a GRX 10spd rear derailleur. Everywhere online, out of stock...and the local shop had it (for around $65ish, I think).
Turns out, I hate it. The inline "shadow" whatever means you can't easily remove the rear wheel. The small cogs get caught on the derailleur, plus, when you do manage to remove the wheel, the chain falls off the top pulleywheel, making it more fiddly to put the wheel back in.
This Acera RD also good for 9&10 speed indexed. It’s compatible with following Shimano indexed shifters range; 9-speed mtb/road and 10-speed road (pre Tiagra 4700) in both DCL and Flatbar style.
Acera and Alivio supported up to 9speed but this new generation Acera only support up to 8 speed. these two are absolutely a good reliable gorup-set and good for all purpose on a budget.
That made me raise an eyebrow at first too to hear it's 8 speed, when even Altus is 9
8,9 speed is just right in terms of durability, price and range. i never go further than 9 on any of my bikes. Price for chains and parts goes up like crazy after 9 speed.
@@Exgrmbl
^
this !
@@Exgrmbl smh there are always deals on 11 speed components, so that they are often cheaper than 9 or 10. But true, nothing beats 8.
And until only recently 11 speed was the only option for 1x drivetrains.
Any Shimano SIS (i.e. for indexing) rear derailleur that is 9 speed or less (except 8 speed and under Dura-Ace, and anything CUES), or 10 speed or less for road bikes, will be compatible with 6, 7, 8, and 9 speed shifters (and 10 speed road shifters).
So this derailleur will work fine with pretty much any 9 speed components.
Awesome. Bring on the trickle up. Maybe you could make some small party pace stickers (or something else) to go over the acera logo? That might make it feel even better.
There’s also a less expensive 10 speed variant of GRX RX 400, clutched, (about $75), which has a 41 tooth capacity officially, but works up to 47 I think. I have it on my Kona Sutra 2x 30/46. It came with a 11-36 cassette, which I replaced with a 11-42 XT, giving me a 585% gear range. Runs well, no wolf tooth required. In fact if installed WT will bend the b screw overtime, so better without it.
With that said, I do want to go lower on the chainrings for bikepacking in the mountains - Russ’ 40-24 is ideal for that.
Kona Rove here, exactly as you've mentioned at the end, I'm looking for something steep grades for hours worthy. Thinking about some pizza in the back, like 48 or even 51 and front in the twenties. Not yet sure how to build this, but I'm guessing deore rear 10 speed + no_idea front + microshift friction shifters. Any input welcome!
ahh, just ordered this one last week. the rd-m3020 is interesting. going to pair it with sora r3000
Still patiently waiting for shimano to release dropbar levers for their shimano cues
The Alivio RD is really nice too. I run one on my 8 speed 90s MTB Dad bike.
I have an Alivio rear shifter on my 2020 Trek FX3, and at first I was really disappointed with it's performance. I decided to try to replace the cables, and that's when I found out that Trek had routed the shifter cable under the bottom bracket through some cheap liner which had gotten all torn up and was causing resistance. After fixing that, it's been pretty good.
When I changed my rear cassette to 11-42T and my existing 8 speed derailleur couldn't get into the 42T cog, I did some research on my own and I ended up getting this same derailleur ($20 off ebay). Fun that I came across this video now and feeling even better about my purchase. I use it with the SL-M315 rapidfire shifter with no problem.
so cool! So much bike tech has been around far too long to not become more efficient and affordable
Two years ago, I decided to upgrade the drivetrain in my folding bike. The only old thing was the rear derailleur, a Shimano RD-M410. I went from 7 speeds to 9 speeds. I paired a SunRace shifter with said derailleur and a SunRun 11-42T cassette. The combination works flawlessly. Recently I decided to buy an 8-speed S-Ride 11-36T cassette for my road bike. I did not change the derailleur, a Shimano Claris RD-R2000-GS medium cage, and it works without any problems. I forgot to mention, the folding bike has a 44T chainring and the road bike has a compact crankset.
May be a dumb question but why not use a long cage 9speed Advent Derailleur with the friction shifter? it has a clutch and supports 42tooh and I believe up to 46tooth.
I can't imagine ever actually cycling a 24-42. Generally I get off and walk way before I get that low! 😅
It's hilariously awesome that you can do this with such a "budget" or "low-end" derailleur.
Hell, I've heard of someone riding a 2x10 roadbike with a tourney tx800 rear derailleur. They ain't fancy, but they get the job done just fine.
Nice, we get them as cheap as 15-18€ here in Germany, would be a great derailleur for my new commuter 😊
I have used the older Acera and Alivio derailleurs with 9 and older 10 speed groupsets with 11-32 and even 11-34 cassettes on road bikes as the pull ratios are the same as 7 and 8 speed systems. These older bikes with 53/39 chainrings paired with an 11-34 cassette now have a similar gear range to modern compact gearing 50/34 and 11-30 cassette. A much cheaper way to upgrade these old bikes.
Thanks Russ. I’m just about to build my first bike. Starting point is the Velo Orange Pass Hunter frame, great deal at $599. You have inspired me to build a bike that you can’t get from the big 4 and I’ll give this derailleur a try. Keep up the great work. Enjoy your day.
I've been using clutchless derailleurs on mountain bikes up till 2012 and they were fine. If you have a front derailleur it'll keep the chain on when bouncing around. Clutches are handy for 1x as ride-stopping chain drops happen off the front chain ring. But that still happens. That's why a front chain guide is used. These days the sound of chain slap is the biggest benefit of a clutch. But a foamy Lizard Skin chain stay protector can muffle that too.
Just bought an Acera to use on my old-school Bridgestone 700 that needed more gear range, partly on all the praises you and Grant Petersen poured onto the low-end Shimano stuff. Excited to try it out!
This is not the only RUclips bike channel to sing the praises of the Acera. But you did a better job expounding on its merits. Well done
I have a big cargo bike that has been electrified with a high torque motor running an Acera derailleur for years now. It has never once needed an adjustment, creaked, shifted improperly, or really had any issues at all. And this is a bike often carrying +100 lb loads, going up hills, and moving quickly.
Mid drive? Or hub motor?
I’m in middle of converting my tandem with a hub motor. Considering the acera/altus/advent 9 spd
I have been talking about that 3020 for years (20€). I run it with a 3x8 system. In the back I use 11x40 Shimano cassette and it works flawlessly. It's also cheap as hell. The setup including the cassete (CS-HG400-8 - 25€), chain (kmc or shimano 7-8 speed chain - 10€) and a new rear shifter (SL-M315-8R - 10-15€) costs 70€ top. And with a 3x (24/32/40) or 2x on the front you are all set.
Yep no clutch, but a nice pad on the chainstay does the job. I use it on my hardtail. Cheap reliable what more do you want. And on longer journeys I have a spare, yep for 20€ you can have a spare. And I'm a lot more freeminded as if I brake it it's so cheap to replace.
0:15 "Ultegra and Duratshe" 😀 Never before heard it like that. 🙂
Microshift M26 rear derailleur. 11-36tooth capacity. Highly recommended.
Just a few weeks after I retrofitted my commuter/touring roadbike with an acera rear derailer you post the vid to finally vindicate that decision! Love the vid even before seeing all of it!!
In my 1x setup I have a Shimano Deore rear derailleur with clutch mechanism. I was getting dropped chain every 10 miles of riding, specifically while in higher gears. Installed a $20 chain retainer piece over the chainring that solved my chain drop issues
Videos like this are why I love this channel.
I've run 46-30 and 42-24 with 42-11 with Sora shifters 9 & 11 speed with 105 shifters and bar end shifters. all with Alivio, Sora, STX, XT and 105 rear derailleurs using a hanger extender as well. Indexed road shifters can be used with a multitude of combinations of gear sizes front and rear. If you use MTB rear derailleurs only 9 spd or less will work with indexed road shifters.
I find that gear ratios too high that come with bikes as standard these days. Chris Froome I am not, so I've experimented as well. This channel is great, doing the experimentation for us.
I'm looking for something steep grades for hours worthy. Thinking about some pizza in the back, like 48 or even 51 and front in the twenties. Not yet sure how to build this, but I'm guessing deore rear 10 speed + no_idea front + microshift friction shifters. Any input welcome!
That's funny to see this right after I pulled the Acera rear derailleur off my old mountain bike and threw it on this mixed build tripple bike when the Ultegra derailleur it came with didn't have the capacity needed to handle the triple and the 11-28 cassette. Just put 30 miles on it and it was smooth as butter.
This is great. Thanks. I'm so glad you check this stuff out in the Cave of Bad Ideas. If I ever do the bike-touring build, I'll use my Ciclo Uno and a setup like this (except that means I'll have to take the Ciclo Uno off my road bike... don't ask...
I have Shimano Deore 9 speed rear derrailleur on my road bike setup 50/34 with 11/42 cassette and on my mtb to gravel conversion, 36/24 with 11/42 cassette. The road is setup with 10 speed brifters and the gravel with 9 speed. In order to use the cassettes and not having to add a derrailleur hanger extender is changing the b-tension screws with a longer one. On the road bike I had to move the front derailleur up a bit to clear the 50/42 combination. For both setups this is the maximum the derrailleur can handle in a 2X setup. You can still find new deore for $50 bucks on e-bay. But both setups is like having a 1X hybrid with plenty of gearing when things get steep.
Using this RD with Claris on my gravel bike, ironically having a larger range than any GRX. :D
with the Claris STI shifters?
@@ehounshell Claris R2000 drop bar brifters.
My head hurts on the numbers. Love the simplicity Russ
I have decades of working on my own bikes, if I was going to build a new packing bike I would go to the new Acera with friction shifters and maybe a 105 at the front! Pretty much the same build on the video. They're bullet proof! I'm not so keen on the Acera shifter/brake lever combo though. Ps. we rode without a clutch in the rear for decades and didn't know we were missing it. Check out Microshift too! They've come along.
Oh i feel i must mention that my previous derailleur was b-twin that came with the bike. I also paired the new derailleur with a set of shimano ef-500 rapid fire brake/shift levers and man i love them! I ride a medium decathlon rockrider100 with a 3x7 setup. Am currently contemplating a new crank set. I am a shimano fan boy. Have been since I was a kid so I tend to stick with that brand. Alternately I would love to get a internally geared or CV rear hub but... I absolutely hate re spoking wheels.🤷♂
fantastic solution for affordable groupset with an amazing range. My only worry is that friction shifting is not super handy when in the hoods as I need to move my hand to shift and it's not super close to brakes if I need to engage them.
I'm old enough that I remember when Shimano first used the model name Dura Ace on a centerpull brake, before they repurposed it for their new, showpiece group that was to compete with Campagnolo. I've always pronounced it as two words, never as "Doorahchay," but I like it! It rolls off the tongue, like the short-lived Santé.
How about Dura ache for the long term impact on your savings?😎
Russ is using friction shifters but this 8 speed will happily work on 9 speed index road/MTB.
Just ordered 2x Acera’s for my kids bikes. For them it’s an upgrade from Tourney TX. Still no clutch but I’m pairing it with bigger cassette and bigger NW chainring.
I love your down to earth common sense approach. Thank you so much.
Someone tossed out an old frame with guess what Mech was on it. I installed the Acera and barely had to make any adjustments. Works amazing on an old Italian Legnano. Its kinda spooky actually. fit like a glove
You've got quite an amazing niche here - and you're so good at it! Bravo.
The Shimano Acera group set was originally on my 3 X 8 Diamondback Mountain bike with a 42/32/22 front and 11-32 cassette and fell for the 1X 10 hype with the Shimano Deore derailleur 38T up front and 11-42 cassette. I had the Ultimate range and never had problems with it. No chain drops and I reduced the chain slap noise by cutting an old inner tube and wrapping the chain stay with it. The bike does look better and is lighter with a 1X though.
I've had mine for a year on my commuter and I'm completely satisfied. And friction shifters.
Just ordered one for my next build. $39 CAN which is like $28 US. Planning on running a New Albion crankset 42/26 with an 11/34 ten speed cassette.
good that it works well. As it is a 2x8 has really got to be the "entry level" decent range 2x. On a x7 you're limited to like, a 34t with a mega-range freewheel, where as once you hit 8 you can get 40+ cassettes, as silly as that can get for distance between gears. So you'd be wanting a 3x7 or a 2x8 to get the range, unless you have any tips for what to do if you find yourself converting a bike with a freewheel. Other than "don't" or "replace the wheels" of course :P
Though I've been running a knock-off goatLink to get my sora to handle a 40. I wonder if this one can make it to a 46+ with the same, though you do end up with fun on the small gears then
If you are running 2x you don't need a clutch as much because the front derailleur helps keep the chain on the front chainrings. If you are running 1x, a clutch is needed more as is a chainring with a deeper tooth profile.
This is the content I come here for! Thanks, Russ. I hope the Catalan Party Pacers make you feel super welcome.
ive done it with a grx800 on 46/30. ive got a friend and she's a wild one and did a grx400 rear mech to 11-42 cassette on a 48/31 bombtrack chainrings 2x
Running one of these (18€) on my city comuter 1x10 with 11-42 and 42 front with a parts bin tiagra 4600 shifter. Best thing ever.
On my 1500W Ebike it lasted about 3 days. The derailleur cages bent, and that was it. The MTB rated parts are much stronger there. I'm used to Rapid Rise, and run gripshifters. So my shifting habits are not typical. The long cage can get pushed into the spokes in urban riding, especially on 26" bikes. I prefer mid cage options due to that. For most people none of this applies. But you do get more for your money with the higher rated parts.
Well done, Russ! I love it when you peel back marketing fluff and show me maximum functionality traded for the fewest family fun hours. 🙌🏻
I agree that clutches on gravel bikes are not always necessary. I’m running a retro m952 rd and I’ve had no issues with chain slap even going down trails
Russ if you get a chance, check the SunRace RD-M10. It's a 10$, steel, friction-only derailleur that even Riv sells. According to them: "Frictions up to 8, Wraps 35 teeth, Max rear cog, 28t, Wt: 255g"
My fairly humble 5120-SGS is a great way to get a huge range. It’s 1x and 2x compatible with both 10s and 11s. Shimanos specs are weird but it’s identical to the m7000 SLX rd that is 1/2x 11s but I just replaced the 5120 with the 7000 and they’re 100% cross compatible and even visually look nearly identical.
I'm running the old Acera (RD-M360) and it shifts perfectly when setup well.
I have upgraded with two ceramic pulleys (11t and 13t, had to dremel a bit, possibly it can take 15t),using a 11-40t cassette/ very good derailleur
After my XTR broke the prices had jumped , I couldn't justify the cost on a child carrier bike. This works great for road style STI shifter up to 10 speed (not the Tiagra 1:1 exception). I tried it with a 105 and now I have it working with a Sensah Phi 2x10 setup.
I was also pretty stoked to find Shimano released an affordable rear derailleur with such a large max cog. Better yet, one that’s backwards compatible! However, having seen their entry level derailleurs after moderate use, I am disappointed by the durability and build quality of these latest derailleurs. I often see these derailleurs (and other Acera / Altus models) coming into the shop with large amounts of play on the parallelogram as things wear. The indexing soon becomes inconsistent and unreliable, and the derailleur needs replacing. This is less of an issue with friction shifting, of course, but if running indexed shifters, I wouldn’t rely on this derailleur if you use your bike regularly. As Russ mentions, I’d like to see this type of max cog size find its way onto more premium models. A touring grade version of this would be wonderful!
That is an amazing setup gear range wise. Thanks for sharing. Not sure I could handle the bar end shifters.
People always chasing expensive components while complaining about expensive components are just idiotic.
I have used Alivio for more than a decade, never had a problem with its reliability, quality, and price. 38t-28t chainrings, 9-speed 11t-36t cassette.
I just splurge on the M7000 SLX for loaded dirt touring. 24/32 x 11-46. (gonna change that big ring to a 36 someday) Shimano says you can't run a double with 11-46T but mine hits all the gears no problemo. I'm on flatbar shifters though.
I think the one aspect that prob doesn’t get mentioned enough is that before you decide to do the same experiment on your own bike - especially with rear derailleurs - always check and think about how the cable routing from the seatstays or chainstays will be affected… Certain RD’s don’t work very well when the cable exit points are in certain angles/distances relative to the position of the cable anchor bolt. Just because it works well on one particular bike that you see on a RUclips review may not necessarily have the same result on all bikes….so DYOR
I found two of these on clearance at my local REI for $10 each. I've got one with a friction shifter on my touring bike and it works pretty dang well.
This episode should be archive in peak mechanical playlist 👍🏼
Actually, all the modern "low end" shimano (altus, acera, alivio) rd can all reach up to 40-42t without any goatlink. Sometimes even the old ones. I got an on older altus (the one in silver and black with a large pulley wheel) on my folding bike and it can manage up to 40t pretty easily. I also have an older deore rd (9 speed) that can also go up to 40-42t.
All hail the lowend shimano's!
Awesome tips for side stepping component compatibility issues, reducing costs, extending riding options, great content thanks ……………subscribed and liked
this is perfect timing
im selling my mountain bike with a 50t 9s on and want to keep my rapid rise for my next bike and have been looking for a good cheap derailleur to sell it with
i think this will be perfect and i know full well a derailleur like this can handle a 9s 50t with a hanger extension (or maybe without one if im lucky)
This a good setup if you feel like going up walls.
Your 2x setup is sick and looks good too!
Dear PLP,
thanks for all your patience and effort for making such interesting and educating videos. I appreciate your love and passion for cycling lifestyle!
Now, about this particular Acera 3020 RD- if we neglect the fact that it works with 40t cassette, and for example want to use it with 8 speed cassette (32-34t) , will it work better than vintage XTR m900 (m910,950) or XT m737/ 739?
In my area, both Acera 3020, and above mantioned vintage XTR/XT (in good condition) are about 30$.
Thanks a lot in advance,
and best regards from Serbia
I would just get the XTR in that situation.
Shimano are always massively conservative with the maximum sprocket size their rear mechs. I use similar set up but with current R7000 105 rear mech which gives 11 speed for under £60 - My set up is 11-40T 11 speed cassette and 30-46T up front (crankset is ultegra triple set up as a subcompact double)