This is the Shimano Deore XT 8 speed, tweaked to optimise it for Rapidfire SL. All the usual virtues are present, a sealed tension pulley and ceramic bushes in the guide pulley, stainless steel cable clamp bolt, quiet understated look etc. etc..

I like the angled logo - so that you can read it without getting on your knees and praying.

---

• Derailleur brands: Shimano
• Categories: Shimano - the Deore XT story
• Country: Japan
• Date of introduction: 1995 (Shimano model year 1996)
• Date of this example: 1996 (two letter date code is UA)
• Model no.: M739 SGS
• Weight: 251g
• Maximum cog: 32 teeth
• Total capacity: 38 teeth
• Pulley centre to centre: 87mm
• Index compatibility: 8 speed
• Chain width: 3/32”
• Logic: top normal
• B pivot: sprung
• P pivot: sprung
• Materials: Largely aluminium with a steel inner pulley cage plate