The New MicroSHIFT Acolyte 1×8 Drivetrain

The all-new MicroSHIFT Acolyte drivetrain group is designed to eliminate one of the main barriers to entry for new mountain bikers: price. The system is touted to deliver the wide range and simplicity of a high-end shifting system, all at a price point under $90. According to MicroShift, Acolyte boasts solid chain retention, intuitive shifting action, and plenty of gearing.

MicroSHIFT Acolyte 12-46T Cassette

The Acolyte group is built around an 8-speed, 12-46T cassette to provide a 383% gear range, just a hair more than a traditional 11-42 cassette (382%). As many of us know, as long as you’re not racing, or being too picky, this is plenty of range for bikepacking when matched with the right chainring. The cassette works with a standard HG freehub body and a normal 8-speed chain.

The MicroSHIFT Acolyte 12-46T cassette (CS-H083-1246) sells for $34.99. Find more information at MicroSHIFT.com.

MicroSHIFT Acolyte Derailleur

The Acolyte rear derailleur features MicroSHIFT’s SpringLock clutch system. By pairing a customized linear rate high-tension spring and a dual stage activation mechanism, they claim that they’ve developed a system that can provide substantial chain security when you need it and can be turned off when you don’t. To engage the clutch, you simply turn the engagement bolt clockwise until it clicks. To disengage the clutch for wheel removal, flip the switch.

The MicroSHIFT Acolyte rear derailleur (RD-M5185M) sells for $35.99. Find more information at MicroSHIFT.com.

MicroSHIFT Acolyte Shifter

The Acolyte shifter features discrete thumb and index levers and a clear gear indicator to simplify shifting. MicroSHIFT claims that it has the same light action and positive indexing as other MicroSHIFT systems.

The MicroSHIFT Acolyte thumb shifter (SL-M7180-R) sells for $16.99. Find more information at MicroSHIFT.com.

Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed.