Shimano for 2000 has expanded their product line. The group STX has been replaced by Deore. Deore XT has been expanded with the addition of a Hollowtech crank and a hydraulic disc brake system. The low-end Acera group is now available with an optional 8-speed drive train.

Two new road groups, Tiagra and Sora have been added to the lower end. The Tiagra has a 9-speed drive train while the Sora has 8-speeds. Both feature the very nice STI lever sets, dual-pivot brakes, and many other features trickled down from their higher-end groups. Two new wheelsets will be available for 2000 the WH-7700 and WH-6500.

For 2000 the Hollowtech that were used exclusively in the Dura-Ace and XTR group will trickle down to 105, Deore XT, Deore LX, and Deore. The most promising new product from Shimano for 2000 is the Deore XT Hydraulic Brake System.

The XTR and Dura-Ace groups remain the same as 1999. When it all works so well it is hard to improve it. It is good that we all will not have to upgrade our complete groups. The disc brakes look very promising. Look for a complete review in November when we put the brakes to the Total test.

If you were confuse last year with the groups for 2000 things only get more complicated. It is good that Shimano continues to add value into all their groups. Next year 2001 maybe 10-speeds? What more could they do? Time will tell.