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My SLX mech has had a bad day so I need to replace it. Any guidance on the sweet spot for price and durability (assuming this was an unlucky on off) between Deore, SLX and XT? Same question for the chain?

My bike came with XTR, but as things have failed/worn I've been resolving this XT. Working as required, some deals out there if you hunt around.
I got a new xt here, £70? Boxed etc
I got a lightly used slx, and a brand new chain that I have no use for, ooooo £30 posted.
M5100 Deore 11s, M6100 Deore, M7100 SLX, M8100 XT, M9100 XTR
They all work. Take your pick.
M5100 and M6100 are identical apart from the logo. And I can't really tell the difference between those and the M8100 XT once on the bike.
@weeksy 8100 SGS? If it is surplus to requirements and not something you will have to replace yourself then yes please
Yes Buc. I'm a SRAM guy
I think XT is the sweetspot. Had a couple of slx cages bend like cheese.
Had a couple of slx cages bend like cheese.
Mine appears to have sacrificed itself to save the hanger 😀
My SLX has been faultless over the last 2481km. But I'm not a gnarr rider, just south downs
Merlin have a Shimano sale on at the moment, eg xt 12sp long cage mech £82.50
But I’m not a gnarr rider, just south downs
Same, but sometimes shit happens. I was on my way home meandering through the woods and CRUNCH! Maybe a stick but it had disappeared by the time I was picking up the pieces 🙁
Merlin have a Shimano sale on at the moment
Indeed, two chains ordered from them just now 👍
IIRC, M5100 & Deore steel cage, SLX half-alu cage, XT full alu cage. XT gets bearinged jockey wheels.
Chains - as you move up the range more parts of it get SIL-TEC treatment.