The Deore XT M8000 derailleur was already known for its smooth gear shifts and quiet chain operation. With the M8100, these features have been further improved, allowing for even faster shifting. To accommodate the extreme range of cassettes with 10-51 teeth, the derailleur has been completely redesigned. The indexing rollers are positioned to keep the chain at an optimal distance from the cassette in all gears. Their size has also increased to 13 teeth. This not only provides better guidance for the chain but also ensures a quieter and more efficient operation. Additionally, the Shadow+ system prevents annoying chain slap on uneven terrain. To achieve the best performance, Shimano recommends using this derailleur only with 1x 12-speed drivetrains.