You may know this already, but a Sram 9spd shifter mated to one of the new generation Shimano clutch derailleurs results in the right pull ratio for compatibility with an 8 speed cassette.
With some manufacturers offering wider range 8 spd HG cassettes (like Microshift Alcolyte), you can have a nice 20% ratio step drivetrain that weighs about the same as 12 spd SLX/XT but is all steel construction and will last longer. Awesome cost savings as well considering the chain and cassette pricing.
Nov. 1, 2021, 3:34 a.m. - Inclag
You may know this already, but a Sram 9spd shifter mated to one of the new generation Shimano clutch derailleurs results in the right pull ratio for compatibility with an 8 speed cassette. With some manufacturers offering wider range 8 spd HG cassettes (like Microshift Alcolyte), you can have a nice 20% ratio step drivetrain that weighs about the same as 12 spd SLX/XT but is all steel construction and will last longer. Awesome cost savings as well considering the chain and cassette pricing.