Shimano introduced its Linkglide technology back in 2021, but this is the first set I've had the chance to use. They have redesigned the original Hyperglide + gears with revised sprockets and chain profiles that are claimed to improve longevity by a whopping 300 percent. It's meant to deal with the extra torque exerted by the best electric mountain bikes, but its smooth shifts and longevity claims are perfect for non-motorized riders, too.
The prospect of a drivetrain that can survive not just one but many UK winters is great and, honestly, a refreshing change from the latest super-fancy highly-strung groupsets. This is a setup for the high-mileage riders out there who get out rain or shine, week in week out, and want a no-fuss, dependable set of gears… So how did it stack up?
