Code: RDM786
Shimano XT M786 Shadow+ rear derailleur, 10 speed
- Shimano's new Direct Mount Rear Derailleur system gives more space around the rear frame dropout resulting in easier rear wheel removal but also allows frame designers to shorten chain stays, increase axel sizes and move suspension pivots
- Direct Mount gives a simpler, cleaner look
- Deore XT Shadow+ Dyna-Sys 10-speed rear derailleur delivers reliable and precise shifting with a stiff and lightweight open design
- Shadow+ features a super low profile design that reduces the risk of damage from trail side hazards
- Shadow Plus uses a chain stabilising switch that when on will reduce chain bounce in rough terrain maintaining more stable drive and shifting. This can be switched off to remove the wheel
- Direct cable routing prevents snagging from any trail side hazards
- All-alloy construction leads to lower weight without compromising strength and durability
- Four fluorine-coated link pin bushings make this one of the slickest shifting derailleurs on the trails
- High rigidity wide outer link braces the pulley body to increase pivot joint rigidity resulting in a crisp shift
- Strong return spring for a positive shifting feel
- Durable sealed bearing pulleys
- 35T capacity GS cage
Jon ChooThis rear derailleur is a perfect fit for a 3x10 speed bike. Nice crisp & fast shifting. As for postage, it was delivered very quickly from time of ordering! Definitely recommended at a good price range.
Fernando ST SilvaRear derailleur very light and sturdy, light and accurate, great cost benefit. I recommend it!
B. A. ReichertAfter multiple SRAM failures this XT derailleur is a dream. Very smooth exact shifting.
Mr YatesBest mech out there in my opinion, light, never lets you down and takes 5 minutes to set up.
Mr YılmazThe derailleur knows my move before I barely touch the trigger!
Mr HalilbeyoğluIf you can`t afford the XTR this the best. Highest price/performance ratio product on the market
Mr ButterfieldExcellent shifting, huge improvement to the sram X7 which was worn, and great value too.
JoesuphThis really is bomb proof. I used it for the first time at the upper buffalo headwaters challenge in Arkansas. 27 miles and over 3000 feet of shifting away with no problems at all! This is my first clutch-style derailleur and dang is it quiet. Totally recommend this for anyone looking to upgrade.
Mr NahhasCombined with the XT chain, shifting between gears is now a breeze! The product is sturdy and solid on some rough rocky terrain. So far so good!
Mr FordBought this when my XTR Mech got wrecked. Wanted a mech with a clutch and this was half the price of the XTR. OK it weighs a little more but we are talking grams but it performs flawlessly, slick shifting every time and has stopped the chain slapping about on the downhills and the occasional chain suck I was getting. If your are not snobby about what could be termed as a downgrade and you need a new mech then I can recommend this one.
iWomackEasy to fit, a doddle to adjust, and smooth gear changes all the way. Very happy with this purchase.
I was deliberating between a medium or long cage but due to current stock had to go for the long cage. I was a little worried I'd made the wrong choice but actually, it's such a minor difference that it makes no considerable difference to performance.
Mr HewittFantastic piece of kit fitted this and 95% of my chain slap issues have gone.. Easy to fit and adjust have used this across rocky descents and muddy tree rooted sections, and its shifted superbly and managed them all with aplomb..
wadeFantastic price for a great bit of kit. Cannot believe how well it changes and really low profile, zero chance of hitting trail side hazards
DunderdaleBy far the best value rear mech I`ve used, lasted 2 years and only bought a new replacement when a jockey wheel snapped and its cheap enough to buy rather than swap out wheels. The clutch is a god send, much less chain chatter if any, would I buy XTR next time .... not unluess it becomes much cheaper, price outweighs the weight saving.
John BGreat product at a competitive price. It works perfectly with my 9 speed 11-34 cassette. The XT mech is infinitely better quality compared to DEORE. If you need a new rear mech spend the extra few quid on this one. NO setting instructions included but plenty of stuff on the web.
Mr christieCan't believe how much quieter the bike is with this deraileur fitted! Keeps the chain in place when going down those rocky decents. If your riding on smooth cycle paths then move the clutch to off position and gear changing will become easier.
HedleyBought for my new hard tail build after faultless performance on my other XC rig. Will run both without chainstay protectors as the chain slap is so well controlled
HadlerThe xt mechs are always smooth and the clutch does great job keeping the chain on the chain ring
Mr ThorpBought as a like for like replacement for a 2 year old mech that met its maker on a rock. Great kit, just works.
Antony CXT , in my opinion, are always nice robust components that can take the hammer of my daily (offroad) commute without having to replace them every 3 months. And at this price they are a bargain
Mikey KThe perfect balance between weight, durability and performance. You could buy XTR, but is it 3 times better? You could buy Deore, but it won't last as long.
Shifting performance is crisp and precise plus the shadow+ tensioner almost eliminates chain slap.
BC_DogWhat a great RD! Quiets my drivetrain on descents. No chain slap or dropped chains. I just have to remember to engage clutch after cleaning.
Mr daviesBought this mech as my standard XT mech had seen better days and was starting to give me shifting problems, all I can say is why the hell did I wait so long! This mech has stopped all chain slap and so far is keeping my chain where it should be when going off drops and jumps unlike the standard XT mech
And it shifts sweeet, buy it you will love it and its at a bargain price.
5 * to Merlin cycles too, ordered it on a Thursday and received it on the Friday, great service.
slopedragonGreat indexing. The clutch is a bit too stiff initially, but it seems to be loosening up nicely with use so I haven't needed to adjust it.
SteveFirst clutch mech for me. Definitely less rattle, well none! Shifting no stiffer that I noticed. Superb.
Mr SmithI've put 1500 miles on an XT 786 before it finally broke off and got mangled by the wheel. Shifts perfectly all the time, needs little to no adjustment. I've run all 3 with modified 1x10 setups (to include 42T rings in the back) and they shift great.
RichUpgraded from a non-clutch mech and am really pleased with this one. Easy to fit and very little re-indexing required - perhaps I was just lucky.
Mr BellThe shimano xt 10 speed shadow+ rear mech is real quality, as you would expect from the xt series. It looks quality. It works smoothly without any fuss. I found it easy to set up. A top piece of kit.
Jon AGreat Mech, GS cage works with my 2x10 ( 22/36, 11-36) just fine. I have an SLX SGS cage too and it's hard to tell any difference.
Mr ArmourOnly rear mech I will consider buying especially at the Merlin price. The last one had a collision with a large rock and got bent but generally vey durable. Shifts like a dream with the XT shifters. Very easy to set up, just set the high and low screws, connect the cable, 2 clicks on the barrel adjuster and set up perfectly with no hassle. Highly reccomended.
Mr YiuFor me, clutch mech + narrow wide will stop my chain from coming off on a 1X system without a chain guide. It is the best solution for me but there are a few problems.
1. You have to push harder on the shifter with these.
2. The clutch loosen over time and you will start dropping the chain when it happens, you can tighten the clutch back up though, instruction is on the Shimano website.
3. The clutch will eventually snap (This is my third one). So don't expect it to last forever and treat it as a consumable. My first one snapped within the warranty period though and got replaced through warranty.
Mr HJust magic, its my first clutched derailleur and it is awesome. Definitely worth the extra money over the non clutched.
Alex KSwitched back to Simano XT from SRAM X9 so happier now with crisp shifting.
Mr RuffGreat product. Easy to install. The Shadow+ feature is great. If my last derailleur would have had that feature I most likely would not have destroyed it in a downhill race.
Mr ThomasAll of my bikes have XT shadow plus derailleurs on and I never have any issues. The shadow plus clutch does a great job keeping bike noise down and keeping the chain on the ring.
Mr MusialNo need to go XTR, as always smooth and precise shifting.
Mr BerkebileI replaced my old sram 9 for this XT to stay consistent with the shimano dyna system. And I love it! The shadow plus technology is impressive. I ride in steep mountainous terrain as well as rolling rock gardens in the desert and it shifts perfectly all the time. The cable stretch hardly seems to effect it. Minor adjustment has been needed to keep it super smooth. I spend my entire rides shifting up and down like crazy to keep cadence in our steep inconsistent terrain, 30,000 vertical feet later it is still shifting excellent. On the down hills the shadow + keeps your chain nice and taught so you don't get the frustrating chain slap anymore. A great product
DRWellsWhat a difference from the old 9spd, non + shadow mech. The fastest shifting yet by a margin and zero chain slap. Why did I wait so long to make the conversion??! Flawless and great value.
PeteGThis is my 2nd of these mechs so I now have them on two bikes. Never had a problem with either one. Perfect shifting, as usual from shimano, no matter what the conditions.
1sh0t1b33rReduced the chain slap I used to have on my old set up down to nothing! No chain drops yet on my 1x10 using with derailleur and a Race Face N/W.
Mr SaalamoVery smooth and accurate operation. Clutch-system is a very nice thing and keeps your chain tight and stable when riding some rough terrain.
Mr WilliamsLove it. Changed from an older XT to new XT shadow + rear mech, difference is very positive
Mr HomeOverall, a great piece of kit...
After trying a clutch mech I doubt I'll ever go back to a standard one. The reduced chain slap improves chain security. I am not convinced that many people will move to use it in direct mount mode. Rear mechs need a point of failure and removing the point of failure makes no sense. I think Shimano are just gutted their design requires an additional link compared with its competitor the X9 Type 2. While riding I think the performance will be equal although I prefer the more tucked in profile of the shadow mech.
Nick FryI've wanted to get a clutched rear mech for a while and it's certainly made a difference.
The bike is virtually silent now, and I haven't thrown a chain since it's been on the bike.
Mr GUYI can't fault this mech, shifts really crisply and keeps the chain secure even on a hard tail on the rootiest trails. The massive reduction in drivetrain noise is very welcome.
Mr BootsWorks like a dream - I was having problems with the chain dropping of my 1x10 set up so I upgraded to this clutch mech and it certainly made a big difference. I would heartily recommend just based on its function let alone Merlin's excellent price, service and delivery - amazing value!
Mr DraperBrilliant rear mech, stops chain slap and is a huge improvement over the original shadow mech.
Mr BondGreat gear, works perfectly except when the hanger snaps and chucks it into the rear wheel. A must have for bikes with gears.
Mr BrownThe shift is smooth and precise as expected by XT but the clutch system is outstanding. What a difference it makes when riding. No more chain slap or chain dropping off the inside of the front rings.
MikeI purchased this rear mech, due to it being a clutch type mech, I read a few other reviews stating that it wasn't very good, but I thought I would give it a go as I'm heading into racing enduro, so I ran it with a 2x10 setup, it's phenomenal chain never came off once with the clutch engadged even over rough a rooty sections. Gear changes are crisp and precise, even under heavy load plus my bike is now silent. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to upgrade to a clutch mech.
RECRIDERExcellent product. I have these on two of my bikes and find them to almost eliminate chain slap on bumpy ground which not only quietens things down but also reduces damage to chainstays. The action is very crisp too.
Mr CarlingGreat derailleur love the shadow plus design if your running a 1x setup this is an essential at a great price
Mr BootsDoes what is says on the tin - increases chain tension, reduces slap and is perfect for 1x10 set up. Merlin's pricing and service is excellent on this product.
Mr RaceSmooth shifting and clutch handles chain slap so well.
Mr ScottExcellent product. Clutch works well and is adjustable with no extra drag or reduction in changing efficency
TWorks well, as you would expect from Shimano, noticeably quieter than the non clutch model.
Mr VercueilAmazing how quiet it makes my bike, still can't believe it !!
Mr porsboEasily fitted. Instruction manual a bit sparse. It is rated 35T Tooth span and it does fit a casette with 34-11 (do not know if it fits larger sprocets than 34)
The shadow plus seems to work really well; I have however only had one ride on it.
Mr LockeRear mech for my other bike, does exactly what it should. Fitted to replace crash damaged XTR, shifting feels slightly heavier but it's half the cost of XTR!
Mr nelsonService was faultless..
RD is great piece of kit, but have already smashed one by 'hitting' something so not sure if the clutch makes the RD cage too stiff and therefore subject to damage easier...
vmgscotThe clutch mechanism works very well... stopped dropped chains that I sometimes suffered on my 2x10 setup. Was looking at chain device but don't feel the need now.
Mr SvensenThis Derailleur is every good, and it works smoothly, and fine! the price is also awesome.
Nothing bad to say.
Mr DaviesTypical fast/efficient service form Merlin. Great product. I was a little sceptical about the clutch system but it just works..
Mr ParsonsThe clutch keeps the chain from slapping heaps and also noticably less chain drops. Cant go wrong with shimano.
Mr LockeClutch works well, has eliminated chain drop on my hardtail.
Mr StopportonGreat rear mech, I bought this to replace a broken XTR Mech with clutch. Not a great deal of difference between this and the XTR tbh. Merlin excellent as always.
Mark SOut of the box its easy to install, of course needs some adjusting but shifts precisely and smoothly. Will not find a better 10 speed mech for that price.
tonyFast clean shifting and the new shadow + reduced chain slap, easy set up like all my XT products
Mr barrettExcellent best rear mech I've used.
Mr SmithWOW - This rear mech really is amazing and looks so sexy on your bike! The clutch mechanism really does work and you do notice the difference with crisper shifts and tighter chain line which eliminates chain loss. Even over the roughest of ground the chain remains in place. Service from Merlin was up to the usual standard with next day delivery just that !
TomFor the sake of a few quid and a few grams, this is great - eliminates chain slap completely and shifting is practically unaffected. I have much more faith in my drive train in mucky conditions.
Definitely recommended.
JayFirst of all, I have to mention the delivery service. I ordered this (and other bits) at around 2pm on a Monday and everything I ordered arrived by 9am the very next day.. SUPERB. Bought this to try and stop the chain dropping on my 1 x 10 bike! IT WORKS.. Great stuff.
Mr AstonThis isn't my first XT rear mech but it is the first with the clutch system and the reports I heard about it being quiet and giving quick positive changes are all true. I didn't think XT could be improved on but Shimano have by adding the clutch ;)
fridgieGreat derailer. Clutch mechanism eliminated all chain slap. would highly recommend.
Mr GordonSuperbly quiet and super crisp shifting. It might be a little heavier than the standard shadow mech, but I reckon it's well worth the extra
Mr RiellySuper silk like changing at a great price
Mr LWorks well, no chain slap. Heavier at 260g than a non-clutch xt rear mech. Would consider the cheaper non-clutch next time.
Mr DolbyFive star advice, products, service and delivery as usual from Merlin Cycles. I will use them again.
Mr DickinsonPreviously I was not sure how you could improve on the old XT mech, but this is definitely an improvement. It does quieten down the chain slap noise, so makes for a more pleasant ride. The slight weight increase over the previous model is neither here nor there for most mere mortals. It's definitely worth upgrading to next time you need to replace your old one.
Mr Bailey12 years away from shimano I took the plunge and bought this derailleur with clutch and matched if up to m780 shifters. The derailleur is well made, exudes quality. It misses the ability to be locked open for wheel changes but apart from that the shifting is flawless. I tossed up this or spending double on an XTR, glad a went with the XT. Tuning the gears was easier than the old 9speed shimano even for a backyard mechanic like myself. I like the cable routing, seems more of a natural route rather than a sharp bend through the derailleur. The clutch mechanism works well, no chain chatter, couldn't feel any drag. Would buy again
Mr MillsVery, VERY quiet on the trail. quick and simple to setup.
Mr allcockthis is the second xt plus mech i have bought on the strength of the first one being so good and this is doing the job well. thanks steve
Mr Wearn'Does exactly wait it says on the tin'
Why didn't they think of this sooner.
Jim WIts Shimano XT so it just works.
The clutch system works a treat, makes chain slap a thing of the past. But it does make shifting feel slightly stiffer, not a lot but enough to notice, nothing you won't get used to after a few minutes riding
MBRAmazing that I can get it from the UK for cheaper than I can get in the US... and it's not yet even available in the US.
EdAwesome no more chain slap and great shifting
MrFirst time I've ordered from Merlin Cycles...I'm impressed with the smooth transaction and fast shipping. Could not find this product in town and noone had an ETA. In addition, retail price in town (Canada) about 40% more than Merlin's, even taking into account shipping!
Shadow+ really works! Wow. Very little chain noise and haven't dropped chain on trail bike yet (no chain guide). Skimming over chunder I hear the sweet pap pap of tires, rather than the clanging of my chain.
Mr foxAs per usual outstanding service from Merlin.
now to the product in hand having been riding for 20+ years now this mech is by far the best used to date the statement that it quieten downs your riding is an under statement it is really that good you can only hear your mates behind you with there mechs bouncing all over the place slapping there frames not mine all i can hear is the tyres whizzing along top mech get one.
Mr GantMuch improved and very positive shifting across all ten sprockets and no chain slap at all even over very rough terrain, no chain drop issues so far and only a small weight penalty over the standard XT Shadow rear mech which this replaced. Very efficient service and prompt delivery from Merlin Cycles as usual, all for a great price.
TimAmazing piece of kit, only used it a few times but no more chain slap and great shifting.
BasilDSmooth shifting,and typical Shimano quality (which to me means it should last and last). The Shadow plus really does work at reducing chain slap. Supposedly it makes the shifting a little bit more resistant but I cannot say that I noticed any difference using the XT i-Spec levers. Not sure I have seen a frame yet with the direct mount option but it is simplicity itself to mount it this way should your frame have this functionality.
Just make sure that when you what to take the rear wheel off you turn the lever to off. I would have loved a lever up by the handlebars to turn on/off the shadow plus function but that would be nitpicking.
5 stars you betcha!
Mr RitcheySomehow Merlin had the new XT Shadow Plus derailleur in stock, when I couldn't find one in the US. And on top of that, I saved money if anyone did stock it, even having to pay shipping across the pond. Impressed!
Mr MartinPlaced the order on Sunday received it on Fri in Western Australia, fantastic service. First purchase but def not the last
I cant put it on till next week but can feel how much stiffer the spring is when the clutch is engaged, My pivot firebird suffers from terrible chain slap and i know this will make my rides silent over rock gardens and drops. Im so stoked right now
Mr SodergrenSuperb product, chainslap is a thing of the past :)
Mr taylorpricy but new to market so thats not a surprise. compared to previous 9sp shadow xt mech the shapes are a little less well defined - its not as sharp looking which is a shame. also the clutch adds visual bulk so its not a pretty thing despite how well it works. suspect the slx will actually look better
