Front Mech - Old XT versus "newer" Deore

jaytait

Hi I am fairly new to all of this but I am quite interested in bike maintenance.

I have a GT hardtail at the moment and it came with a Deore front mech. I think it would be either last year's or the year before's model.

I have also got an older (still boxed and brand new) XT front mech although it is about 10 years old.

My question is which would be better to run? I would appreciate proper feedback on this instead of "obviously newer Deore as XT is a decade old" or "XT is always better than Deore". I don't have the product code for these on me but if it would help I could post them.

Thanks for any advice

nicklouse

well first of is the old boxed one the right type and band size.

if yes then use it.

jaytait

nicklouse wrote:

well first of is the old boxed one the right type and band size.

if yes then use it.

Thanks Nick

I think it is the same type as the new one but this was simply by comparing the 2. When you say band size, what do you mean?

Sorry for not knowing

toasty

I'd personally keep the current one on, assuming it's running smooth.

Front mechs don't differ drastically through the range so even if it was brand new I'd question whether it was worth the effort. Obviously, with the gradual passing down of technology, new bits end up on lower versions anyway. They're probably very similar in function, strength and weight to be honest.

PS I'd also assume he's talking about the size of the clamp part, they vary, 28.6mm, 31.8mm, 34.9mm etc. There is also the question of whether it's designed for a narrower, 9 speed chain? Were there any 8 speed XT groupsets 10 years ago?

nicklouse

Were there any 8 speed XT groupsets 10 years ago?

yes and 9 speed came in in 1999.

TBH a bit more info is really needed. IE. the part number of the XT and also what the GT is year and model or just the current gear specs.

but it will still work if it fits.