I’ve long thought that electric shifting was a solution to a problem that didn’t exist.
One of my bikes is currently XO, one XT. They both shift great and easy. I have a slight preference for the Shimano as it will shift into a higher gear (smaller rear) 2 at a time when cresting a hill. Both will go 3 at a time into “easier” gears.
The slow shifting is an issue for undulating terrain. Since most North Americans don’t live within 30 minutes of “winch and plummet” terrain I think this is more of a problem than Brian realizes. Most reviewers live right near “resort-level” terrain, and more power to them. But it does make their reviews very out of touch with 90% of most people’s riding experience. The fact that he didn’t realize the limit to 2 gears dropped at a time is evidence of this. I hope to hear a second review from Jeff who is located around more undulating terrain which I think will be an important perspective.
5 Comments
Mar 27, 2025
Mar 30, 2025
That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard a bike reviewer say. It's basic details about how it mounts, and basic details of Transmission.
Do better Singletracks.
Apr 1, 2025
Apr 1, 2025
One of my bikes is currently XO, one XT. They both shift great and easy. I have a slight preference for the Shimano as it will shift into a higher gear (smaller rear) 2 at a time when cresting a hill. Both will go 3 at a time into “easier” gears.
Mar 31, 2025