Shimano Introduces CUES - A Brand New Approach to Mid-Tier Components

Softly launched last summer with the introduction of the CUES Di2 e-bike drivetrain, Shimano is now officially launching the CUES component lineup. Focused on durability, simplicity, and compatibility across 9, 10, and 11-speed mid-tier drivetrains, CUES will eventually replace current component tiers Altus, Acera, and Alivio. Unlike most mid-to-entry-level drivetrains Shimano introduces, CUES does not use trickle-down technology and is not race-focused. Instead, the performance of the components is targeted at everyday riders and new cyclists alike. 

Across the three CUES series (U8000 11-speed, U6000 10-speed, U4000 9-speed), the barrier to entry remains low to receive durable, single front chain ring drivetrains, smooth Linkglide shifting, and compatibility between each series. Shimano's Linkglide technology is at the core of the CUES ecosystem, which Shimano claims is their smoothest shifting technology and up 3x as durable as Hyperglide+. 

Now, riders and OEM brands will have a three-tiered product family that can be configured to meet a rider's needs or hit a specific price point. And for shops, the goal is to minimize the number of SKUs on the wall and have more flexibility to resolve a problem. CUES should also simplify the buying experience for new riders who will only need to understand one component series moving forward.

We are excited Shimano is focusing on this side of the market and love the durability and compatibility that CUES will offer. We have some exciting plans to dig deeper into CUES and Linkglide, but for now, here are some additional takeaways from what Shimano has told us, as well as the full press release below:

- CUES will take the place of 10 & 11-speed versions of DEORE 
- 1x and 2x drivetrains are available 
- Linkglide cassette is 3x as durable as a Hyperglide+ cassette.
- Linkglide is slower shifting and heavier in comparison to Hyperglide+ components.
- CUES/Linkglide works with the existing 11-speed chain because it has the most inner surface area contact between pin and plate, which increases durability 
- CUES should make it is easier for a rider to find their new bike and for shop employees to explain the differences between components on complete bikes.
- Linkglide is so robust and durable that Shimano hopes it will help retain new cyclists since they will spend less time maintaining their bikes.
- U6000 Series will be most prevalent in the North America mountain bike market
- 11-speed cassette offered up to 11-50
- 10-speed cassette offered up to 11-48
- U6000 Series derailleurs use classic Shimano clutch 
- For legacy products that CUES is replacing, Shimano will continue to carry those parts.
- Straightforward compatibility allows for mixed matching between three tiers of CUE. Beneficial for OEM spec, bike shops stocking parts, and individual riders who know what features they want in their drivetrain
- The CUES/Linkglide cassettes are more forgiving thanks to their increased durability, so even if you run your chain past its life, there is a better chance you won't wear down the cassette at the same rate.
- There is also a road/drop bar version of CUES.
MSRP for the shifter, rear derailleur, chain, and cassette only
U8000 11-speed: $290 USD
U6000 10-speed: $214 USD 
U4000 9-speed: $151 USD
For comparison, XT Linkglide 11-speed: $362 USD

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For over 100 years, Shimano components have helped shape and elevate the everyday riding experience for millions of riders worldwide. This is why Shimano is excited to announce that we are taking it one step further, by introducing SHIMANO CUES: a brand-new approach to our mid-tier lifestyle component lineup.

Redesigned from the ground up, SHIMANO CUES makes the bike buying experience easier. Featuring our high-durability LINKGLIDE technology, SHIMANO CUES offers smoother shifting, more durable components, and standardizes compatibility across a wide range of categories.

SHIMANO CUES: SIMPLICITY
By consolidating our 9-, 10-, and 11-speed component ranges with interchangeable components, including common derailleur pulleys, cassette sprockets and chains, SHIMANO CUES reduces shop inventory needs and simplifies the servicing process for mid-tier bikes. This means bike shops will have the right parts on hand for servicing your bike.

SHIMANO CUES: VERSATILITY
We’ve created our most compatible and versatile component lineup ever, shifting away from our traditional trickle-down technology model to focus on the unique needs of the everyday rider. The lineup features unified sprocket spacing across our 9-, 10-, and 11-speed drivetrains, so that components can be intermixed across a wider range of user groups and riding styles.

SHIMANO CUES: DURABILITY
As our most durable drivetrain technology, SHIMANO LINKGLIDE extends a component’s overall lifespan and delivers a smooth shifting experience for both analog and electric bikes. With taller and thicker cassette teeth, providing additional surface area this mitigates the chain from skipping and distributes pedaling forces to prevent premature wear due to shifts from new and experienced riders.

Product Specifications

Streamlined Mid-Tier Component Lineup – Consolidates SHIMANO’s 9, 10, and 11-speed drivetrains into one unified ecosystem of components.

Developed from the Ground Up – Components designed specifically for the everyday rider to improve compatibility and versatility across the range.

Drivetrain Compatibility – Common components used across drivetrains to reduce overall complexity and create clear compatibility across groups.

SHIMANO CUES Versatility - Select components can be intermixed across more user groups and riding styles, opening up new possibilities for component spec combinations.

Centered on LINKGLIDE technology – Delivers the most durable drivetrain technology available while improving shifting performance.

Smooth and Intuitive Shifting – New tooth profile design that guides the chain up and down the cassette for smooth shifting in either direction while pedaling under load.

Extended Component Lifespan – Cassettes and chains built to withstand consistent daily wear and tear of both analog and high-torque e-bike use.