Shimano has announced the launch of its CUES Groupset Collection. This collection combines Shimano's intermediate level group sets into one more manageable ecosystem; CUES stands for "Create Unique Experiences."

Shimano claims that this reorganization comes after years of trickle-down racing technology being installed in lower and mid-level group sets for lifestyle and MTB, which do not particularly benefit from it. Therefore, it was decided to develop something more suitable for this application. The following changes apply to mid-range group sets below the Deore level.

The CUES ecosystem consists of 9-, 10-, and 11-speed components, divided into roughly three spec tiers CUES will update and eventually replace the technology known as the Shimano Triple-A groupset, primarily Acera, Alivio, and Altus The goal. According to Shimano, there are no plans to discontinue production at this time, and updates to the technology for the drop bar community will be made by the end of the year. There is speculation that this could affect the current product lines, such as Tiagra, Sola, and Claris, which could disappear.

Shimano used the experience of several mechanics and feedback from bicycle manufacturers and dealers to develop the CUES. This included a desire for more mix-and-match components, especially in light of recent component shortages. All components feature Shimano Link Glide technology, which promises smoother shifting, more durable components, and standardized compatibility. This means that a wider user base can mix and match components.

By integrating component ranges such as chains, cassettes, and derailleur pulleys, Shimano claims that CUES will help reduce store inventory and simplify the maintenance process for intermediate bikes.

Shimano also points out that many low- and to some extent mid-priced hybrid and mountain bikes use a 2x or 3x front chainset and front derailleur setup. When users upgrade, they often move to more user-friendly 1x systems, and Cues aims to eliminate this situation by making affordable 1x options available for product manufacturers and stores to spec to lower the price point of Shimano MTB performance (although 2x chain sets are still available). Front derailleur cable pull ratios will be unified from the current three ratios to one in order to improve compatibility.

Shimano Link Glide is the most durable drivetrain technology offered by Shimano. According to Shimano, it provides durable sprockets, the latest cassette tooth profile, and smooth shifting. This is especially important as e-bikes are used more frequently, which demands more torque from drivetrain components. It will also ensure that shifting quality requirements are met when third-party chains are specified to meet price points and customer budgets.

Shimano product series codes for the new CUES components will be U4000, U6000, and U8000 (as well as U3000 derailleurs.) As an example of CUES' intent, the U6000 chainset will be available in both 10-speed and 11-speed versions, allowing customers more easily meet certain price points.

Last year, some CUES equipment was released on a smaller scale in the form of a Di2 variant of the CUES group. The launch of this new equipment is part of a larger series of mechanical components.

A full specification list and prices will be announced shortly, but some of the CUES components available include top and side swing front derailleurs, square taper and Hollowtech II single and double chainsets, 1x cassettes up to 50t, double up to 39t chainsets/cassettes included. Clutch Technology derailleurs and I-Spec compatible shifters are also included in the lineup.

Shimano's new hubs, such as the CUES, which can switch between quick-release and through-axle, Hyperglide, and Micro Spline Freehub, will be available at the same time. These hubs also feature cartridge bearings,