MTB cassettes

How to choose a mountain bike cassette

On mountain bikes, the cassette alone provides almost the entire gear range: 10-51 and 10-52 12-speed cassettes have made single-chainring setups universal. Shimano (Deore, SLX, XT, XTR) and SRAM (NX, GX, X01, XX1) cover 10-, 11- and 12-speed systems.

Which freehub body for my wheel?

• Shimano HG : 8- to 11-speed cassettes (excluding 12-speed Shimano).
• Shimano Micro Spline : Shimano 12-speed cassettes.
• SRAM XD : SRAM cassettes starting with a 10-tooth sprocket, in 11 and 12 speeds.
• The freehub body can sometimes be replaced on an existing hub: check with the wheel manufacturer.

Which gear range?

• 10-51 or 10-52 : maximum range for steep climbs and electric mountain bikes.
• A narrower range provides smoother gear changes, suited to fast cross-country riding.
• Check that your derailleur can accommodate the largest sprocket you intend to use.

Which material for your use?

• Steel : very durable and economical, but heavy.
• Aluminium : lightweight, wears faster, reserved for the largest sprockets.
• Machined sprockets : the lightest and most precise option, for high-end groupsets.
• Avoid mixing cassettes, chains and derailleurs from different brands in 12-speed systems.

To find out more: How to choose a mountain bike cassette

See also: MTB chains and quick links · MTB rear derailleurs