Shimano Deore XT BL-M8100 + BR-M8100 J-Kit I-Spec EV Brake

The new Shimano brakes are part of the updated Deore XT M8100 group and represent a new standard in terms of modulation and performance. Thanks to the new I-Spec EV system, the lever has 2 contact points, ensuring superior stability, while the main function allows lateral and angular adjustment of the shifter, which is fixed with a single screw, keeping the handlebar perfectly organized.

The lever design follows the lines of the XTR and offers Reach and Free Stroke adjustment for personalized braking. Thanks to Servo Wave technology, it also achieves quicker engagement and unmatched braking power.

Brake lever features

• Two contact points for superior stability and refined ergonomics.
• A cleaner and more functional cockpit layout.
• 10% more responsive than M8000, even in high temperature conditions.
• Faster brake response with reduced free stroke.
• Tool-free Reach adjustment.
• Free Stroke adjustment.
• Intuitive and versatile braking.
• Clamp: Open Clamp Band.
• Lever size: 2 fingers.
• Caliper compatibility: BR-M8100, BR-M8120.
• Servo Wave mechanism.
• Lever and caliper: J-Kit.

Brake caliper features

• Number of pistons: 2.
• Faster piston retraction.
• Superior modulation.
• Mounting bolt size: 5 mm.
• Fitting: Banjo.
• Mount type: Post Mount.
• Fluid: Shimano mineral oil.
• Resin pads without fin.
• Lever compatibility: BL-M8100, RT-MT800.
• Cooling: Ice Tech.

Technologies

Ice Technologies

Incorrect configuration of the disc brake rotor and pads during braking on a long descent, for example, negatively impacts brake performance. Shimano has adopted the Ice Technologies disc brake rotor and pads to achieve a cooling technology that ensures consistent performance. The coated disc brake rotor blade, featuring a 3-layer sandwich structure of stainless steel, aluminum, and stainless steel, provides better heat dissipation (from 400˚C to 300˚C surface temperature). The cooling fin on the pad ensures less wear, less noise, less efficiency loss, and lighter weight.

One Way Bleeding

The “One Way Bleeding” function was developed to ensure easy and quick prevention of air infiltration in Shimano hydraulic systems. The entire oil circuit in the system has been optimized to prevent air bubbles inside. The unidirectional oil circuit, together with a funnel tool with mineral oil, guarantees an easy and clean bleeding system.

I-Spec EV

I-Spec EV creates a clean and optimized cockpit that allows greater focus and comfort for a wide range of cyclists.

Advantages and benefits

• The widest adjustment range allows cyclists of various styles, preferences, and body types to find the optimal lever and shifter position.
• Ergonomic design, quicker lever access, and smooth operation improve riding comfort and concentration.

I-Spec EV increases brake lever stiffness by moving the band inward to create an additional contact point between the handlebar and the lever. This extra support greatly enhances bike control and brake response, while maintaining space between the band and the support point for other accessories to be mounted on the handlebar.

Servo Wave Action

When operating the Servowave brake lever, the initial cable pull is faster, so a small lever travel is enough to bring the pads into contact with the brake rotor. Then the power multiplication factor quickly increases at contact, so a greater lever travel is used to apply more force with higher levels of brake control.

Control configuration

• Right lever: rear brake (housing 1700 mm)
• Left lever: front brake (housing 1000 mm)