Shimano's wireless Di2 shifting is already more affordable with launch of new XT and Deore drivetrains

Hot off the heels of the launch of Shimano XTR Di2 just a couple of weeks ago, the components giant has brought that wireless Di2 technology to XT and Deore level. The new drivetrains bring most of the tech seen on the brand's flagship model too, apart from the new brake design at Deore level. Here are all of the details...
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Deore XT Di2 middles the range
Let's kick things off with the new Deore XT M8200 Di2 groupset. As you can imagine, it follows a near-identical design to the XTR Di2 setup, using the Shimano Shadow ES tech and a low-profile design as well as a stabliser unit that's built into the derailleur's body but rather than a carbon cage, this mech uses an alloy alternative for durability, says the brand.
With that cage being the main difference, the XT unit boasts automatic impact recovery and a battery that's tucked inside of the mech itself. There's also an e-MTB-specific option that's hard-wired into an e-MTB's battery. The e-bike mech also opens up Free Shift and Auto Shift systems, allowing for shifting while coasting and automatic shifting while pedalling.
With a new drivetrain comes a new cassette. As before, it's a 12-speed offering that uses Shimano's Hyperglide+ tech, but the largest two cogs are constructed from alloy, whereas the other ten are forged from steel. There are two cassette options available too, offering 9-45t and 10-51t spreads.
XTR Di2's crankset came in two options to suit trail and enduro, and cross-country riding. However, for XT Di2, there's only one crank available that's built to cope with the demands of all riding. It can be picked up in 160, 165, 170, and 175mm crank lengths.
As for the shifter, there's not all that much that sets the XT unit apart from the XTR. It's a programmable shifter, so the buttons can be customised to the riders' preferences, and it provides multiple shift modes. For example, riders can hold down a button for multiple shifts, and there's a click-through double shift. Additionally, a third button allows the control of a bike computer and/or the control of the Auto Shift and Free Shift functions.
XT Di2 also benefits from all-new brakes in four and two-piston configurations. These benefit from Ergo Flow tech, Shimano's classic Servowave power curve, and the new low-viscosity mineral oil found on the XTR Di2 brakes. Of course, they follow the same design that brings the pivot location closer to the bar. However, these brakes get an alloy lever blade.
Wrapping up XT Di2, Shimano is also bringing Deore XT wheels for enduro and cross-country riding. They utilise J-bend spokes, a 28-hole construction, and offer a 3.5-degree engagement angle.
Deore Di2 brings wireless shifting to a friendlier price point
As for the Deore groupset, it gets many of the facets found on the pricier groupsets but features a more affordable construction. As such, the RD-M6250 derailleur gets a solid pulley construction and a steel cage. So, for the lower price, we can expect this mech to be a little weightier. There is also an e-MTB-specific derailleur on offer that still provides access to the Free Shift and Auto Shift functions.
The shifter gets all of the bells and whistles, too, including the programmable third button and multiple shift modes. But note, the Deore-level drivetrain does not come with new brakes, rather, it takes advantage of the current style options.
As for prices, the XT Di2 mech will set you back £430, the shifter £160, the cassette is £15,0 and the chain is £50. That'll need a battery and charger, which come in at £40 and £30 respectively. The crankset costs £150 while the chainrings are £65. A front and rear XT brakeset costs £400 for the four-piston brakes and £350 for the two-piston alternatives.
For Deore Di2, the mech without a battery is £375, the cassette is £150 and the brakes are £95 a pop. As for the shifter, that's £125. Deore Di2 uses the existing crank.