Shimano, a well-known manufacturer, makes Deore and Alivio bike gear sets. They’re both designed for mountain bikes but have quite a few differences.
For example, Alivio by Shimano is excellent for beginner mountain bikes and easy on the pocket. On the other hand, Deore by Shimano is a bit pricier and offers more features that Alivio lacks.
Refrain from mixing up Shimano Deore with Alivio.
We’ll go over all the differences between these Shimano gear sets, why Deore is superior to Alivio, and which one you should choose for your mountain bike, among other things.
By the end of this blog post, you’ll know almost everything about these Shimano gear sets, allowing you to make an informed choice. But first, let’s get to know Shimano better.
Shimano Deore versus Alivio
| Parts | Shimano Alivio | Shimano Deore |
| Gears | 2 or 3 front gears with 9 back gears | 1 front gear with 10, 11, or 12 back gears, or 2 front gears with 10 or 11 back gears |
| Change Gears Parts | Shimano Alivio-M3100-SGS (works with 9 gears) | Shimano Deore M6100 (works with 12 gears) |
| Gear Range Parts | Shimano CS-HG400-9 (works with 9 gears) | CS-M5100 Cassette 10-51T |
| Brakes | Uses fluid to stop the bike | Also uses fluid to stop the bike |
| How Fast? | 9 speeds | 11 speeds |
| Pedal Gears | Two or three options | Two options |
| Guarantee | Lasts for one year | Also lasts for one year |
| Cost | Less money than Deore | More money |
Shimano Deore Groupset
The Shimano Deore groupset is a top-notch and well-liked pick for mountain bikes. This is because of its great performanceides, even though it costs twice as much as the Shimano Alivio.
Its silky gear changes make your ride feel like you’re soaring. It’s also challenging, so it can resist damage from stones when biking up mountains!
It can change three gears all at once, which helps give you that soaring feeling. A unique part of this bike stops the chain from falling off while you’re riding, which is a common issue with bikes.
These are all high-quality parts for exciting mountain bikes. They can quickly go up steep trails and zoom down hills with better balance and control.
You can pick 1×12 gears, 1×11 gears, or 1×10 gears. No matter what you choose, all of them will work excellently on different types of ground.
Shimano Alivio Groupset
The Shimano Alivio groupset is a budget-friendly choice for a mountain bike. It gives you dependable performance without breaking the bank. Changing gears with its shifters is a breeze.
It offers two gear options to match different landscapes. You can choose either 1×9 gears at the back or 3×9 gears.
Along with these, the crankset is sturdy and efficient, helping to make your pedaling power go further.
The rear derailleur, which changes gears using the chains, can tackle bumps and obstacles on the trail. It’s built to last and won’t let you down.
The bike also comes with mechanical disc brakes for strong stopping power. This means you can safely stop your cycle and keep it under control in any weather or landscape.
Here’s the video breakdown of Shimano Deore Vs Alivio. Check it out.
Video Credits: https://www.youtube.com/@lkhousefishfarm12
Read More: Shimano Vs Microshift Vs SRAM Gears
Comparing Shimano Alivio and Deore
There are many differences between these two groupsets, which you’ve already got a brief idea about. Let’s dig deeper into each factor to understand why they’re so distinct!
Gear Shifter
Shimano Alivio uses an SL-M3100-R shifter, while Shimano Deore uses an SL-M5100. Both shifters assist in changing gears smoothly and have displays to indicate your current equipment.
The SL-M3100-R works with nine gears, while the SL-M5100 works with eleven. The SL-M5100 is fancier and more comfortable, but it also costs more.
Cassette
The Shimano Alivio cassette is lightweight, with nine closely-placed gears for easy and efficient shifting.
On the other hand, the Shimano Deore cassette has 11 gears and can work with various types of derailleurs, like bikes with one or two gears at the front.
Both cassettes use hyper glide technology, enhancing the gear-shifting process.
Rear Derailleur
When it comes to rear derailleurs, Shimano Alivio uses the M3100-SGS model. It’s designed for regular mountain biking with a low-profile design that enhances riding fun.
In contrast, Shimano Deore uses the M5100-SGS model, which is stronger than the M3100-SGS. So, it’s better suited for rocky trails.
Front Derailleur
As for the front derailleur, Shimano Alivio offers an 18-speed or 27-speed gear setup. You can pick the one that fits your needs.
On the other hand, Shimano Deore provides two options – an 11-speed or 22-speed gear setup.
Gear Ratios
This is the main point of difference between the two groupsets. Shimano Alivio has a 3×9 gear configuration, meaning it has three chainrings at the front and nine gears on the back wheel. It provides a decent range for most riding situations.
Shimano Deore, however, offers more configurations. It comes in 1×11 and 2×11 setups. The first setup includes 11 gears on the back wheel and one chainring at the front.
The second setup features two chainrings in the crankset and 11 on the back wheel, giving you 22-speed combinations. This more comprehensive range of gears on Shimano Deore makes it easier for riders to handle various terrains effectively.
Brakes
Shimano Alivio bikes come with mechanical disc brakes. These brakes use cables to transfer force from the brake lever to the calipers, providing dependable stopping power.
On the other hand, Shimano Deore bikes are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which are superior to mechanical ones. These brakes use fluid to transfer force, leading to better and stronger braking performance.
Wheels
Shimano Alivio doesn’t include wheelsets, so a direct comparison isn’t possible. However, Deore M-5100 offers a broad selection of tires for 27.5″ and 29″ clincher wheels.
When selecting tires, consider going tubeless. Tubeless tires offer lower pressure and better resistance to punctures. The benefits of tubeless tires make them an easy choice!
Pedals
Shimano Alivio doesn’t come with pedals, but Deore does. Shimano Deore includes a pair of flat pedals that offer maximum grip, thanks to their long screw pins.
Both Alivio and Deore offer SPD pedals. Deore provides a broader selection of styles and two more oversized footprint pedals, while Alivio offers a smaller and one larger footprint pedal.
Speed
The number of gears influences the bike’s speed in the groupset, which affects the range of gear ratios and the bike’s overall versatility.
We’ve already discussed the gears of these two bikes, and we know that Deore has superior gear configurations compared to Alivio. This naturally makes Deore the faster of the two.
With Deore, cyclists can make finer adjustments with the gears to find the ideal gear ratio that suits their pedaling rhythm and the terrain’s demands.
Related: Shimano Acera Vs Shimano Deore
Does Shimano Deore Outperform Alivio?
In comparing the two groupsets, it’s important to remember that “better” is subjective and depends on individual needs. The preferred riding style and purpose of use will determine what is better in both components.
However, if we were to compare generally, Shimano Deore would be considered superior to Shimano Alivio for several reasons, many of which we’ve already covered.
We know that Deore offers more gear configurations than Alivio. Deore’s brakes are also better than Alivio’s. Considering the price, Alivio is considerably cheaper than Deore, and the reasons for this are clear.
On the other hand, Shimano Alivio is a better choice for entry-level mountain bikes as it is more affordable.
What distinguishes Alivio from Deore?
Sure! Both Shimano types are fantastic for off-road bikes. But they do have differences in how much they cost, their speed levels, shifters, quality, and how well they work.
Usually, Shimano Deore is seen as better quality and more about doing well than Alivio. It’s suitable for people who ride in harder and trickier places.
So, if you love a good challenge and tough rides, Shimano Deore is a good pick. But don’t fret; both types have good points and will do great for your off-road bike fun!
Final Thoughts: Distinguishing Between Shimano Deore and Alivio
Shimano Alivio and Deore have unique features that fit different wants. They’re both great for mountain bikes. Deore has more advanced parts, which makes it better than Alivio, but Alivio is still a good option.
Usually, Shimano Deore is seen as better quality and is made to do well in tricky riding spots compared to Alivio.
For casual mountain biking with friends or family, Alivio is the best pick because it has everything you need and is affordable. On the other hand, Deore costs twice as much as Alivio.
It has all the top-notch parts and is perfect for mountain bike races. But at the end of the day, the best one for you depends on what you want.
FAQs:
Is Shimano Alivio suitable for mountain bikes (MTB)?
Yes, Shimano Alivio is a top choice for MTBs. It has gear options of 18-speed or 27-speed. However, the parts could be more vital for rocky trails. If you’re new to mountain biking, Shimano Alivio is a good start.
Can Shimano Alivio work with Deore?
Yes, Shimano Alivio can work with Shimano Deore. You can put the Alivio cassette on the Shimano Deore drivetrain. This can help save some money.
How good is Shimano Deore?
Shimano Deore is better than Alivio. So it’s ranked higher than Shimano Alivio and is best for mountain bikers with more experience.
Does Shimano Acera Outperform Alivio?
No, it isn’t. Both are great for beginners on mountain bikes. But Shimano Acera is just one level below the Alivio drivetrain. Shimano Alivio is light, works smoothly, and has many gear options.
A passionate cyclist with an unwavering love for the open road and founder of topbikesguide.com . Energetic and dedicated, this enthusiast embraces the thrill of speed and the freedom of two wheels.