Absolutely right in terms of building a 10-speed XT drivetrain. The cable pull ratio and cog distance is consistent through all LinkGlide stuff. You also don’t have to use a Shimano chain, just be sure to use 11-speed for best surface contact.
I really enjoyed my review experience on Deore HG+, but I’m not certain why they’re keeping that or SLX around. I think there’s a solid argument for HG+ XTR and XT (racing) but Shimano sums up the LG use case well:
Also, for Enduro racing (versus XC/DH) I think we’ll see a lot of XT LinkGlide on pros bikes this year. Survivability.
Feb. 23, 2023, 6:42 a.m. - Andrew Major
Absolutely right in terms of building a 10-speed XT drivetrain. The cable pull ratio and cog distance is consistent through all LinkGlide stuff. You also don’t have to use a Shimano chain, just be sure to use 11-speed for best surface contact. I really enjoyed my review experience on Deore HG+, but I’m not certain why they’re keeping that or SLX around. I think there’s a solid argument for HG+ XTR and XT (racing) but Shimano sums up the LG use case well:  Also, for Enduro racing (versus XC/DH) I think we’ll see a lot of XT LinkGlide on pros bikes this year. Survivability.