Shimano\u2019s newest groupset sniffed, ogled and fondled <\/p>
Shimano Cues U8000 is the top-end group of drivetrain components in the brand\u2019s all-new range.<\/p>\n
Shimano Cues<\/a> consolidates the brand\u2019s Alivio, Acera, Altus and select Deore groupset components into one inter-compatible family that covers everything from 9- through to 11-speed.<\/p>\n Though the brand has committed to continuing support for its outgoing groupsets for the next seven years, Cues is pegged to soon be the dominant groupset family on entry-level hybrids and mountain bikes.<\/p>\n Shimano has also all but confirmed drop-bar road\/gravel bike components will soon come to Cues (fingers crossed \u2013 we want a mullet<\/a>!).<\/p>\n iceBike* North<\/a> \u2013 the in-house trade show for Shimano\u2019s UK distributor, Madison \u2013 presented the first opportunity for us to lay eyes on Cues.<\/p>\n The groupset was fitted to a Ridgeback Element, which is precisely the sort of mid-range hybrid Cues will be commonly specced on.<\/p>\n The 1x setup pictured also speaks to a broader theme of Cues.<\/p>\n Shimano says Cues was developed specifically for brands who wanted to spec an affordable 1x<\/a> Shimano drivetrain without resorting to third-party brands for certain components.<\/p>\n This has long been a notable omission from Shimano\u2019s range.<\/p>\n The previous entry point for a wide-range 1x Shimano groupset was Deore.<\/p>\n While relatively affordable, Deore is considerably more expensive than the 9- and 10-speed groupsets Cues replaces.<\/p>\n