Shifter Shimano CUES SL-U8000 I-Spec 11-speed

The Shimano CUES SL-U8000-11IR shifter is designed for an 11-speed rear drivetrain. It mounts to the brake lever using I-Spec II and is compatible only with the LINKGLIDE shifting system.

Technical specifications

• I-Spec II – attaches the shift lever to the brake lever
• Quick lever access and light operation
• RAPIDFIRE PLUS
• INSTANT RELEASE
• 2-WAY RELEASE
• Lightweight, compact design
• Compatible only with the LINKGLIDE shifting system
• Group: CUES U8000
• Model: SL-U8000-11IR
• Mounting: I-Spec II (I-Spec II is not compatible with I-Spec or I-Spec B!)
• Rear gearing: 11-speed
• Cable adjustment
• Materials: main lever body – painted steel; lever body – steel, GFRP

Technologies

LINKGLIDE delivers smooth shifting and pedalling performance designed to last. It supports stress-free riding and ownership across evolving bike types and riding styles. This exceptionally durable drivetrain is built to withstand persistent daily wear and provide lasting shifting and pedalling performance on multi-purpose bikes and high-torque e-bikes. Its robust cassette design enables seamless upshifts and downshifts while significantly reducing drivetrain wear. The shifting gate design is optimised, and the robust cassette teeth resist damage when shifting and pedalling under high torque.

Mountain bikers have used RAPIDFIRE PLUS since 1985. It remains a suitable choice for a wide range of riders, from XC racers to freeriders. RAPIDFIRE PLUS is designed for quick shifting and lets riders downshift three gears in one stroke. RAPIDFIRE PLUS shifters from DEORE to XTR feature 2-WAY RELEASE, which allows release shifts by pulling with the index finger or pushing with the thumb.

INSTANT RELEASE replaces the familiar two-stage click-and-release shift. The cable is released as soon as the lever is activated, enabling the quickest possible gear changes. A quicker shift is always better, whether shifting up with a Top Normal rear derailleur or down with a Low Normal rear derailleur.

The RAPIDFIRE PLUS release lever is commonly called a trigger because it is operated like a pistol trigger by pulling it towards the grip. The release lever on RAPIDFIRE PLUS shifters from ALIVIO to XTR can be operated this way and can also be activated by pushing with the thumb.