Readers’ Awards – Best Product – Shimano Shadow Plus
Shadow Plus is the posh name for the new generation of clutch controlled rear mechs, you voted them top of 2012…
We caught up with the guys behind the Shadow Plus to see what else was on the way…
How do you feel the Clutch Mech System has changed gravity fueled biking?
For DH racers, Shadow Plus improves shifting performance, vastly reduces the likelihood of chain drop and also quietens the drivetrain. All of these factors help to give the rider more confidence to push harder and ride faster as they aren’t focussed on their drivetrain; it’s one less thing to worry about. It’s no surprise that the top three overall finishers in the 2012 Downhill World Cup (Aaron Gwin, Greg Minnaar and Gee Atherton) all used Shimano Shadow Plus rear derailleurs.
For Enduro riders, Shadow Plus offers similar advantages as those above but also opens up more opportunities for lightweight 1 x 10 set ups without the need for a heavy DH style chain device. Even XC racers are choosing Shadow Plus. Although it weighs more than a regular Shadow rear derailleur, many XC racers would rather have the added security and confidence that Shadow Plus offers for the sake of a few extra grams.
Where do you think groupsets of the future will be heading?
I don’t think anyone saw Shadow Plus coming and yet it’s been nothing sort of a revolution. Shadow Plus highlights how Shimano engineers works; not always following the latest short-lived trends or giving in to perceived market demand but working on completely new concepts with a small team of experienced test riders to produce new and innovative products that improve the sport. With this in mind, who knows what is around the corner and what Shimano are developing and testing right now? Many of Shimano’s projects never see the light of day but let’s hope that the next revolution isn’t far away.
