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Shimano Introduces New 2.2mm Thick Brake Rotors for Improved Braking Performance

3 hours ago 1

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(All photos/Shimano)

In addition to DEORE and XT mechanical drivetrain components, pedals, and more, we can add 2.2mm thick disc brake rotors to this week’s growing list of Shimano product announcements. With an increase in thickness to 2.2mm, Shimano says its new rotors are engineered to improve braking performance, control, and durability for today’s downhill, freeride, enduro, and e-MTB riders. Additionally, Shimano is making an intentional shift from its 203mm size to 200mm to simplify setup and frame/fork fitment.

studio image of a close-up view of the thick rotor and vent hole construction.

Thicker is Better

As we learned when SRAM introduced its HS2 rotors a few years back, increasing the thickness of the brake rotor can noticeably impact braking power and performance. With the introduction of these new 2.2mm thick rotors, it seems Shimano is finally getting on board the thicker-is-better train. They say they are intended to “stand confidently on their own as a premium braking upgrade.”

Bumping up from the 1.75mm thickness of the standard versions, Shimano says the 2.2mm rotors raise the bar on braking performance for gravity-oriented riders and heavyweight e-MTBs. But Shimano claims it isn’t only about more power; the added thickness also increases durability and impact resistance. Additionally, they state the new vent hole construction improves consistency and maintains predictable modulation, resulting in less hand fatigue.

the shimano 2.2mm thick rotor mounted on the rear wheel of a mountain bike.

Sizes

Shimano has been making disc brake rotors in a 203mm diameter for many years. This size has always been a little confusing, given the even 20mm jumps between rotor sizes in the rest of the Shimano rotor lineup. And if you’ve ever run Shimano brakes with a 203mm rotor, then you’re aware that it required the use of specific shims and/or adapters to do so.

With the new 2.2mm thick rotors, Shimano tells us that it’s intentionally ditching the 203mm diameter in favor of 200mm. As Shimano puts it, this shift “simplifies brake setup and alignment, reducing the need for extra shims or adapters for a cleaner caliper interface and broader frame and fork compatibility.” In addition to 200mm, the 2.2mm rotors are also available in a 220mm diameter.

studio image of the shimano thick rotor with the centerlock interface

Compatibility

The new 2.2mm thick rotors are available in 6-bolt and center-lock interfaces, so they should work with virtually every mountain bike hub out there. Shimano says the thick rotors are compatible with its latest 4-piston braking systems, including XTR, DEORE XT, and the recently updated DEORE brakes.