Source: Shimano China
IN APRIL, SHIMANO WILL INTRODUCE A NEW, AFFORDABLE DRIVETRAIN, SHIMANO ESSA, THAT IS ALSO COMPATIBLE WITH THE BIKEMAKER'S CURRENT ACERA FOR 8-SPEED HANDLEBAR ACERA, ALTUS AND TOURNEY TX SYSTEMS.
The Shimano ESSA drivetrain features a revolutionary "Essence of Active" concept design that will enhance its existing 8-speed lineup. Versatile and rugged, ESSA is designed to bring an active cycling lifestyle to cycling enthusiasts, marking an exciting development in the range of compatible parts and harmonizing Shimano's complex portfolio of kits. Shimano aims to simplify its product range for the next generation of cyclists.
ESSA –Essence of Active
The ESSA drive system is ideal for a wide range of recreational sports bikes, including mountain bikes, exercise bikes, and city commuter bikes. Wide and narrow toothed discs will help to provide reliable chain stabilization when mountain biking. The single-disc 8-speed drive will have a 400% higher gear range* than before, and dynamic chain engagement technology (wide and narrow tooth design of the chainring) will contribute to excellent chain stability.
*Data from Shimano's in-house laboratory.
The drivetrain is compatible with Shimano's current 8-speed HYPERGLIDE drivetrain system parts and will bring even more convenience to bike retailers and cycling enthusiasts.
RD-U2000 rear derailleur
Consistent drive performance on trail riding
– Optimization of geometry and spring tension reduces the risk of chain drops
– Low-profile design optimized for bumpy terrain
– Total capacity of gear change: 34T
– Maximum low-speed cassette: 45T
– SHIMANO SHADOW RD（隐藏式后拨链器）
FC-U2000-1 sprocket
Special wide and narrow chainring tooth profile improves chain engagement and retention for a smoother ride on rough terrain.
– Chainring options: 32T, 40T
– DYNAMIC CHAIN ENGAGEMENT+ 特殊宽窄齿形 (32T)
CS-HG400-8 Cassette
The 8-speed cassette with a wide shift range provides consistent shifting performance for a wide range of riding styles.
– Wide shift range: 11-45T (11-13-15-18-22-27-35-45T)
– HYPERGLIDE drive system
The ESSA drive system assembly, which consists only of the rear derailleur and crank, is based on the existing HYPERGLIDE drive system platform and is seamlessly compatible with the existing parts offering of select Shimano kits.
The CUES package adds a shift lever and brake lever for short operating strokes
In 2023, Shimano has launched the CUES 11/10/9-speed kit system, providing a reliable and compatible solution for multiple riding styles such as cycling and mountain. This year, Shimano has expanded its CUES lineup to include shift levers and brake levers with shorter travel strokes, ergonomically optimized for riders with smaller hands, and solutions for different riding styles for a pleasant riding experience.
With a unique dual push lever and lever position closer to the handlebar, you can easily upshift or downshift with a single thumb, making shifting more intuitive and comfortable.
CUES brings more possibilities to every rider, providing more accessible braking operation: the brake lever is 20% shorter than the handlebar.
The front and rear hub series have been updated
With the introduction of the ESSA drive system, and at the same time bringing more versatility to CUES users, Shimano's front and rear hub series will be completely updated in its existing 11/10/9/8-speed system. All non-series front and rear hub lines will be brought together in one simple, easy-to-understand product line.
The TC600 and TC/QC500 series feature labyrinth contact seal bearings, and their sealing performance is designed for use scenarios that can withstand high torque output in intense mountain biking. The QC40 series uses contact sealed bearings, while the QC300 series retains the traditional angular contact bearings.
THE FH600 AND FH500 REAR HUBS PAIRED WITH THE MICROSPLIN BASE ARE DESIGNED FOR USE WITH E-BIKES AND OFFER RELIABLE PERFORMANCE THAT CAN BE USED WITH THE SHIMANO LINKGLIDE 11-SPEED DRIVETRAIN OR EASILY UPGRADED TO HYPERGLIDE+ 12-SPEED DRIVETRAIN. This provides riders and mechanics with reassurance in the event of any later maintenance of the bearings.