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Best Derailleur For Mountain Bike (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your mountain bike, a new derailleur might be just what you need. A high-quality derailleur can make a big difference in how smoothly your bike shifts gears, which can in turn improve your overall performance on the trails. Before you make a purchase, there are a few key factors to consider.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for a derailleur is compatibility. Not all derailleurs are universally compatible with all bikes, so it’s important to choose one that will work well with your specific model. You’ll also want to think about the type of riding you plan to do and choose a derailleur that can handle the demands of your chosen terrain.

Other factors to consider might include weight, durability, and ease of installation. Choosing the right derailleur can be a bit overwhelming, but doing your research and knowing what to look for can make the process much easier.

If you’re still not sure whether a new derailleur is right for you or which one to choose, ask yourself some questions. Do you find yourself struggling with clunky shifts or difficulty maintaining speed? Are you planning to take on more challenging trails in the future? Are you looking for ways to improve your bike’s overall performance? Answering these questions can help you determine whether a new derailleur is worth the investment and guide you in choosing the best one for your needs.

10 Best Derailleur For Mountain Bike

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for mountain biking with a 12 speed bike and a SRAM Eagle XX1/X01/GX rear derailleur.
2
The product is ideal for off-road cycling and challenging terrains with its wide, sturdy tires and responsive brakes.
3
The product is ideal for adults looking for a powerful and efficient electric bike with fat tires for off-road mountain riding.
4
Ideal for mountain bikes, tricycles, commuter bikes, and folding bikes that require a 6/7-speed direct mount rear derailleur.
5
This product is ideal for mountain bicycles with 6-7 speed derailleur systems that require a direct mount.
6
The product is ideal for use as a rear derailleur on road and mountain bikes with 6/7-speed gear systems.
7
The product is ideal for improving the shifting performance of mountain bikes with 7/8 speeds.
8
Ideal for mountain bikes, offers 6/7 speed rear derailleur with direct mount and medium cage.
9
This product is ideal for improving the shifting performance of certain Shimano mountain bike components with 11-speed drivetrains.
10
The product is ideal for mountain biking on rough terrain and uneven surfaces.
The product is ideal for mountain biking with a 12 speed bike and a SRAM Eagle XX1/X01/GX rear derailleur.
The product is ideal for off-road cycling and challenging terrains with its wide, sturdy tires and responsive brakes.
The product is ideal for adults looking for a powerful and efficient electric bike with fat tires for off-road mountain riding.
Ideal for mountain bikes, tricycles, commuter bikes, and folding bikes that require a 6/7-speed direct mount rear derailleur.
This product is ideal for mountain bicycles with 6-7 speed derailleur systems that require a direct mount.
The product is ideal for use as a rear derailleur on road and mountain bikes with 6/7-speed gear systems.
The product is ideal for improving the shifting performance of mountain bikes with 7/8 speeds.
Ideal for mountain bikes, offers 6/7 speed rear derailleur with direct mount and medium cage.
This product is ideal for improving the shifting performance of certain Shimano mountain bike components with 11-speed drivetrains.
The product is ideal for mountain biking on rough terrain and uneven surfaces.

1. Kcnc 12-Speed Mountain Bike Cassette: Ultra-Light Black.

Improve your MTB riding experience with the KCNC Eagle Cassette, a lightweight and high-performance cassette designed specifically for SRAM's Eagle derailleurs. With a 578% bandwidth and adjustable top gear wheels, this cassette ensures that you stay up to speed with ease. The cassette is also designed with CNC-milled aluminum and durable steel to ensure smooth gear shifting and long-lasting performance. It weighs only 327g, making it the lightest cassette available for Eagle-only drives. The cassette includes 12 cogs with teeth ranging from 9 to 52T and grades ranging from 11 to 20%. It has three eccentric mounts that allow mounting with an offset of 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm, making it compatible with various derailleur hangers. The KCNC Eagle Cassette is compatible with SRAM XX1, X01, and GX Eagle 12-speed chains, and freewheels with XD and XDR with a 1.85mm spacer, making it a versatile and reliable choice for your MTB needs.

Upgrade your MTB's performance with the KCNC Eagle Cassette, the lightest cassette for Eagle-only drives. With a high bandwidth of 578%, adjustable top gear wheels, and optimized sprockets, this cassette ensures that you can ride with ease and precision. Its five large sprockets are made of durable and wear-resistant aluminum, while the seven small sprockets are made of SACM645 steel surface treated, ensuring smooth gear shifting and long-lasting performance. The cassette has a weight of only 327g, making it a lightweight and reliable choice for your MTB needs. It includes 12 cogs with teeth ranging from 9 to 52T and grades ranging from 11 to 20%, making it versatile and compatible with various derailleur hangers. Its three eccentric mounts allow mounting with an offset of 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm, ensuring that you can compensate for manufacturer-specific differences in length on the derailleur hanger and continue to switch smoothly into the smallest and largest pinion. The KCNC Eagle Cassette is compatible with SRAM XX1, X01, and GX Eagle 12-speed chains, and freewheels with XD and XDR with a 1.85mm spacer, making it a reliable choice for your MTB needs.

The KCNC Eagle Cassette is the ideal upgrade for your MTB, designed for optimal performance and reliability. With a high bandwidth of 578%, adjustable top gear wheels, and optimized sprockets, this cassette ensures that you can ride with ease and precision. Its five large sprockets are made of durable and wear-resistant aluminum, while the seven small sprockets are made of SACM645 steel surface treated, ensuring smooth gear shifting and long-lasting performance. The cassette has a weight of only 327g, making it the lightest cassette available for Eagle-only drives. It includes 12 cogs with teeth ranging from 9 to 52T and grades ranging from 11 to 20%, making it compatible with various derailleur hangers. Its three eccentric mounts allow mounting with an offset of 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm, ensuring that you can compensate for manufacturer-specific differences in length on the derailleur hanger and continue to switch smoothly into the smallest and largest pinion. The KCNC Eagle Cassette is compatible with SRAM XX1, X01, and GX Eagle 12-speed chains, and freewheels with XD and XDR with a 1.85mm spacer, making it a versatile and reliable choice for your MTB needs.

Pros

  • High bandwidth of 578%
  • Adjustable top gear wheels
  • CNC-milled aluminum and durable steel for smooth gear shifting
  • Lightweight at only 327g
  • 12 cogs with teeth ranging from 9 to 52T and grades ranging from 11 to 20%
  • Three eccentric mounts that allow mounting with an offset of 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm
  • Compatible with SRAM XX1, X01, and GX Eagle 12-speed chains, and freewheels with XD and XDR with a 1.85mm spacer

Cons

  • – May not be compatible with non-SRAM MTB drives

2. Mongoose Malus Fat Tire Bike: Sleek Adventure Companion.

The Steel mountain-style fat tire frame of this bike is designed to provide durability and sturdiness. It is perfect for riders who are looking for a reliable bike that can withstand rough terrains. The 26-inch wheels can accommodate riders who are 64 to 74 inches tall. The bike features a 7-speed shifter that ensures smooth gear changes, allowing you to shift gears effortlessly while riding. The front and rear disc brakes provide precise speed control, ensuring crisp stopping whenever you need to slow down or stop. The bike also comes with fat, knobby 4-inch wide mountain tires that can roll over anything in their path. The 4" alloy rims are light and strong, providing excellent support and stability. The alloy a-head stem and mountain handlebar keep you in complete control out on the trail, making this bike an excellent choice for adventurous riders.

Overall, this bike is a great option for riders who are looking for a reliable and sturdy bike that can handle rough terrains. With its 7-speed shifter, front and rear disc brakes, and fat, knobby 4-inch wide mountain tires, this bike is perfect for anyone who loves to ride off-road.

Pros

  • Sturdy steel mountain-style fat tire frame
  • Smooth gear changes with 7-speed shifter
  • Precise speed control with front and rear disc brakes
  • Fat, knobby 4-inch wide mountain tires that can roll over anything
  • Light and strong 4" alloy rims
  • Alloy a-head stem and mountain handlebar for complete control

3. Dynalion Fat Ebike: Powerful, Durable And Ul Certified.

Experience a comfortable and smooth ride with this electric bike equipped with fat wide tires, a multi-function LCD display, front and rear LED lights, and an adjustable seat. Its hydraulic shock-absorbing front fork can handle various terrains such as roads, mountains, and beaches with ease.

This bike boasts a powerful 48V 750W high-speed Bafang motor, providing up to 25mph of speed. With a maximum speed assist mode of 25MPH and throttle speed of 28MPH, you can reach far distances with ease. The bike's range can reach 25-40+ miles on assist mode and 25+ miles on pure electric power.

Equipped with a removable 48V/16AH lithium-ion battery, this bike can travel 25-40+ miles per full charge. The battery is conveniently removable, making it easy to take home or recharge in the office. Plus, the battery has a USB port that you can use to charge your phone while riding.

This electric bike comes with a one-year warranty for its motor, battery, charger, and controller. The frame even has a three-year warranty, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind.

Pros

  • Comfortable and smooth riding experience
  • Can handle various terrains such as roads, mountains, and beaches
  • Powerful 48V 750W high-speed Bafang motor
  • Removable 48V/16AH lithium-ion battery with a USB port for phone charging
  • One-year warranty for motor, battery, charger, and controller, and three-year warranty for the frame

4. Shimano 6/7 Speed Rear Derailleur For Bikes

The RD-TZ31-A is a bike rear derailleur that is compatible with 6/7 speed mountain bikes, commuter bikes, tricycles, folding bikes and other similar models. It is important to note that the bike rear derailleur is direct mount and not hub bolt mount, so the right mount way must be chosen before making the purchase. Made of high-quality durable aluminum alloy material, the RD-TZ31-A comes with excellent shifting performance that ensures safe and stable riding. It is suitable for a wide range of bikes including MTB, mountain bikes, road bikes, folding bicycles, commuter bikes, tricycles, and electric bikes. In case of any queries or concerns, the manufacturer provides excellent customer service and can be contacted for assistance.

If you are looking for a reliable and durable bike rear derailleur that offers excellent shifting performance, the RD-TZ31-A is a great option. Its high-quality aluminum alloy material ensures stability and safety while riding. Additionally, it is suitable for various types of bikes and the manufacturer provides excellent customer service, making it a worthwhile investment for any cycling enthusiast.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality durable aluminum alloy material
  • Excellent shifting performance ensures safe and stable riding
  • Compatible with a wide range of bikes, including MTB, mountain bikes, road bikes, folding bicycles, commuter bikes, tricycles, and electric bikes
  • Manufacturer provides excellent customer service

5. Mohegia Bike Rear Derailleur Rd-Ty21b 6/7 Speed Direct Mount For Mountain Bicycle-Black

The RD-TY21B rear derailleur is a great choice for those who own 6/7 speed mountain bikes. It is made of durable aluminum alloy material which ensures safe and stable riding. The excellent shifting performance of this rear derailleur makes it a reliable option for all types of riders.

One important thing to note is that the rear derailleur is direct mount and not hub bolt mount. Therefore, it is necessary to check the mount type of the original part before ordering. However, once installed, the rear derailleur is easy to use and maintain.

This rear derailleur has a wide application and is suitable for various types of bikes such as MTB, mountain bikes, road bikes, folding bicycles and so on. If you have any questions regarding the installation or compatibility, feel free to contact the seller for quality service.

Pros

  • Made of durable aluminum alloy material
  • Excellent shifting performance ensures safe and stable riding
  • Suitable for various types of bikes

Cons

  • – Customers need to check the mount type of the original part before ordering

6. Meghna Shimano Tourney Rd-Ty300 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur Road Mtb Bike Mountain Bike Direct Mount

Upgrade your bike's shifting performance with the Long Cage Tourney Derailleur. This rear derailleur is designed for 6 and 7-speed SIS INDEX variable speed transmission systems, making it compatible with a wide range of bikes. The bracket fit is located under the wheel nut, ensuring a secure and reliable installation. With a max sprocket of 34T and a min sprocket of 11T, you'll be able to tackle any terrain with ease. The B tension adjustment screw allows for precise tuning of the upper guide wheel's distance from the tooth tip of the largest flywheel, ensuring smooth shifting every time.

Installation is quick and easy, so you can get back to riding in no time. The Long Cage Tourney Derailleur is also compatible with 11T /14T high speed gears, providing even more versatility for your bike. Whether you're commuting to work, hitting the trails, or taking a leisurely ride, this rear derailleur will provide reliable and efficient shifting performance.

Pros

  • Compatible with 6 and 7-speed SIS INDEX variable speed transmission systems
  • Max sprocket of 34T and min sprocket of 11T for tackling any terrain
  • B tension adjustment screw for precise tuning of upper guide wheel distance
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Compatible with 11T /14T high speed gears for added versatility

7. Meghna Shimano Altus Rear Derailleur Rd-M310 7/8 Speed Mountain Bike Rear Derailleur Direct Mount

Upgrade your bike's performance with the Shimano RD-M310 (RD-CT95) Altus Rear Derailleur. Designed for 7/8 speed bikes, this derailleur is compatible with maximum rear sprocket of 34T and has a total capacity of 43T. The derailleur has a top-normal (traditional) action and a short cage length for precise shifting. Its advanced light-action design and Teflon-coated bushings ensure smooth and effortless shifting every time. The direct-attach rear derailleur is easy to install and maintain, making it an excellent choice for mountain bikers and commuters alike.

The Shimano RD-M310 Altus Rear Derailleur is made of high-quality materials and is built to last. Its black finish adds a sleek and modern look to your bike. The derailleur's direct-mount design ensures optimal alignment and reduces the chances of damage or misalignment. With its reliable performance and easy installation, the Shimano RD-M310 Altus Rear Derailleur is an excellent choice for all types of riders.

Pros

  • Compatible with 7/8 speed bikes
  • Maximum rear sprocket of 34T and total capacity of 43T
  • Advanced light-action design and Teflon-coated bushings for smooth shifting
  • Direct-attach rear derailleur for easy installation and maintenance
  • Short cage length for precise shifting

Cons

  • – Not compatible with bikes that have more than 8 speeds
  • – May not be suitable for heavy-duty mountain biking

8. Inkesky Rd-Tz31-Gs 6/7 Speed Rear Derailleur With Direct Mount, Medium Cage, For Mountain Bike

The Shimano Tourney (SIS) RD-TZ31-GS 6/7 speed medium-cage direct mount rear derailleur is an excellent choice for mountain bikes. This product comes without retail packaging and is shown as it is. This derailleur has a total capacity of 34T, with the largest sprocket being 28T and the smallest being 14T. The front chainwheel tooth difference is 20T.

This derailleur is compatible with 6 and 7-speed SIS Index Shifting drivetrains. However, it is not compatible with hub bolt mount (bracket mount) frames. It is important to note that if the total capacity of your bike exceeds 34T, this RD-TZ31 is not compatible with your bike. Please see below for a detailed description of how to calculate total capacity.

To install this derailleur, a 5mm Allen wrench is required. Overall, this Shimano Tourney rear derailleur is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient mountain bike component.

Pros

  • Compatible with 6 and 7-speed SIS Index Shifting drivetrains
  • Total capacity of 34T for the chain
  • Efficient and reliable for mountain bikes

Cons

  • – Not compatible with hub bolt mount (bracket mount) frames
  • – Not suitable for bikes with a total capacity exceeding 34T

9. Golden Mtb Oversized Pulley Rear Derailleur Cage.

Upgrade your drivetrain to achieve ultimate efficiency and superior performance with the Oversized Pulley Wheel Cage from KCNC. This system reduces friction in the pulleys by 45% compared to a stock setup, resulting in a 30-60% power savings. The narrow-wide tooth profile ensures durable chain retention, while the top 14T and bottom 16T alloy pulley wheels come fitted with low friction bearings and a lightweight cage made from 7075 alloy. The coated bearings further prolong the system's life, making it 3-5 times longer-lasting than standard pulleys.

The OSPW system is compatible with Shimano XTR M9000/M9050, XT M8000/M8050, and SLX M7000 11s rear derailleur. Its efficiency ratio is almost the same as that of Ceramicspeed, and it has been proven to be the fastest pulley system in the world. The OSPW system maximizes the return you get from your energy, making it an ideal choice for any cyclist who wants to take their performance to the next level.

Pros

  • Reduces friction by 45% compared to a stock setup
  • Results in 30-60% power savings
  • Narrow-wide tooth profile ensures durable chain retention
  • Top 14T and bottom 16T alloy pulley wheels come fitted with low friction bearings
  • Lightweight cage made from 7075 alloy
  • Coated bearings prolong system's life
  • 3-5 times longer-lasting than standard pulleys
  • Compatible with Shimano XTR M9000/M9050, XT M8000/M8050, and SLX M7000 11s rear derailleur
  • Efficiency ratio is almost the same as that of Ceramicspeed
  • Proven to be the fastest pulley system in the world
  • Maximizes the return on energy

10. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike, Full Dual Suspension, 29-Inch Wheels , Blue/grey

Experience a durable and comfortable ride with the Schwinn Aluminum Dual Suspension Frame and Schwinn Suspension Fork that effectively absorbs bumps and thumps. Equipped with 24 speed shifters and front and rear derailleurs, gear changes are made smooth and easy. The front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp stopping power in any condition, ensuring safety while out on the trail. The extra-wide double-wall alloy rims are both lightweight and strong, adding to the bike's overall durability. The 2.25-inch-wide knobby mountain tires are perfect for rough terrains, providing excellent traction and stability. The Schwinn Alloy Cranks offer steady gearing and require minimal maintenance, making it easier for riders to focus on their ride.

Pros

  • Schwinn Aluminum Dual Suspension Frame and Schwinn Suspension Fork effectively soak up bumps and thumps
  • 24 speed shifters and front and rear derailleurs make gear changes smooth and easy
  • Front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp stopping power in any condition
  • Extra-wide double-wall alloy rims are both lightweight and strong for added durability
  • 2.25-inch-wide knobby mountain tires provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrains
  • Schwinn Alloy Cranks offer steady gearing and require minimal maintenance

Best Derailleur For Mountain Bike FAQs

How do I choose the right derailleur for my mountain bike?

Choosing the right derailleur for your mountain bike can be a daunting task, but it is crucial for optimum performance. Firstly, you need to determine the number of gears and the type of drivetrain system on your bike. Different derailleur models are designed to work with specific drivetrains and gear ratios. The next factor to consider is the type of riding you intend to do. If you are an aggressive rider who tackles steep and technical terrain, you may want to opt for a more durable and robust derailleur. On the other hand, if you are a casual rider who prefers smoother trails, a lighter derailleur may be more suitable. Another essential factor to consider is the compatibility of the derailleur with your bike frame. Most derailleur models are designed to fit specific frame types and sizes. Finally, consider the brand and price of the derailleur. Higher-end derailleur models tend to offer better performance and durability but come at a premium cost. Ultimately, choosing the right derailleur for your mountain bike comes down to your personal preferences, riding style, and budget.

How do I maintain and adjust my mountain bike derailleur?

Maintaining and adjusting your mountain bike derailleur is crucial to ensure smooth and efficient shifting during your rides. Firstly, ensure that your derailleur hanger is straight and not bent. Then, clean your derailleur with a degreaser and a brush, making sure to remove all dirt and grime. Lubricate the pivots and springs with a light oil or grease.

Next, adjust the limit screws to prevent the chain from falling off the cassette or going into the spokes. The high limit screw should be adjusted so that the chain can shift onto the largest cog without going over it, while the low limit screw should be adjusted so that the chain does not fall off the smallest cog.

Finally, adjust the cable tension by turning the barrel adjuster until the chain smoothly shifts up and down the cassette. If the shifting is still not smooth, you may need to adjust the derailleur's angle or replace the cable and housing. It is important to regularly maintain and adjust your derailleur to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage to your bike.

What are the common problems and solutions for a malfunctioning derailleur on a mountain bike?

A malfunctioning derailleur can be a frustrating experience for any mountain biker. The derailleur is responsible for shifting the chain from one gear to another, and when it's not working correctly, it can make riding difficult or even impossible.

One common problem with a derailleur is that it can get bent or damaged from a crash or hitting a rock or tree. This can cause the chain to get stuck or skip gears. If this happens, it's important to take the bike to a professional mechanic who can assess the damage and make the necessary repairs.

Another issue is that the derailleur may not be properly adjusted. This can lead to difficulty shifting gears or the chain falling off the bike altogether. In this case, the solution is to adjust the derailleur's limit screws and cable tension. This can be done at home with the help of a bike repair manual or by taking the bike to a mechanic.

Finally, a dirty or worn-out derailleur can cause problems with shifting. In this case, the solution is to clean and lubricate the derailleur or replace it altogether. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the bike can help prevent this issue from occurring in the first place.

In conclusion, a malfunctioning derailleur can be a frustrating problem for mountain bikers, but with proper maintenance and the help of a professional mechanic, these issues can be easily resolved.

What are the different types of derailleurs available for mountain bikes?

There are various types of derailleurs available for mountain bikes, each with their unique features and benefits. The most common ones include the front derailleur, rear derailleur, and the clutch derailleur.

The front derailleur is responsible for shifting the chain between the chainrings on the crankset. It is typically operated by the left shifter and is available in different clamp sizes to fit different frame dimensions.

The rear derailleur on the other hand, is responsible for shifting the chain between the cassette's sprockets. It is typically operated by the right shifter and is available in different cage lengths to accommodate different gear ranges.

The clutch derailleur is a recent innovation that helps to reduce chain slap and improve chain retention. It works by adding tension to the chain, preventing it from bouncing around excessively.

Other types of derailleurs include the direct mount derailleur, which bolts directly onto the frame without a clamp, and the electronic derailleur, which uses a battery-powered motor to shift gears automatically.

Overall, the choice of derailleur will depend on the rider's specific needs and preferences, as well as the type of terrain they will be riding on.

What is a derailleur and how does it work on a mountain bike?

A derailleur is a key component of a mountain bike's drivetrain system that helps to change the gears by moving the chain from one cog to another. It consists of a movable cage that holds the chain, which is connected to a cable that runs to the handlebar-mounted gear shifters. The derailleur is mounted on the rear derailleur hanger, which is attached to the frame's rear dropout.

When the rider shifts gears using the gear shifters, the cable pulls the derailleur cage in one direction or the other, causing the chain to move up or down the cassette. The derailleur's design allows it to move the chain across multiple gears, enabling the rider to adjust their pedaling cadence to match the terrain.

In addition to rear derailleurs, mountain bikes may also have a front derailleur, which works in a similar way to change gears on the chainrings. Together, these components help to provide a wide range of gears and allow riders to tackle steep climbs and fast descents with ease.

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