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Shimano Cyclocross Components: CX Series Model Numbers and Grades
Posted at: Aug 18, 2021
An overview of Shimano’s cyclocross-specific components, including CX series model numbers and grades.
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Two Shimano Cyclocross-Specific Groupsets
CX70 (ULTEGRA Grade)
The higher-end of Shimano’s cyclocross-specific components is the CX70 series, which corresponds to the ULTEGRA grade in road bike components.
The CX70 lineup includes:
- BR-CX70 (Brake)
- FD-CX70 (Front Derailleur)
- FC-CX70 (Front Crankset)
A notable feature of the FD-CX70 front derailleur is the availability of a top-pull design, which helps prevent mud interference.
The Difference Between Up-Route and Down-Route Front Derailleurs: How to Choose
There are two types of front derailleurs, "top-route" and "down-route", depending on how the frame is routed. Here is a summary of the differences between the two, how to tell them apart, and what to look for when choosing one.
CX50 (105/TIAGRA Grade)
The entry-level cyclocross-specific groupset from Shimano is the CX50, which corresponds to the 105 or TIAGRA grade in road bike components.
The CX50 lineup includes:
- BR-CX50 (Brake)
- FC-CX50 (Front Crankset)
The CX Series Is Now Considered Outdated
The CX series was designed for 10-speed drivetrains, so with current 105 and higher groups now supporting 11-speed, these components are considered legacy models.
Even though the CX series aligns with ULTEGRA and 105 in grade, the front derailleur uses an older mechanism from two generations ago, and the crankset has a 5-arm design. In ULTEGRA terms, this aligns with the 6700 series; in 105 terms, it’s equivalent to the 5700 series.
Some CX series parts are still available new, but it’s important to understand that their standards and compatibility are based on older models.
Will It Be Integrated into GRX in the Future?
Shimano has released GRX as a dedicated groupset for gravel riding.
Although the riding environments are not exactly the same, gravel riding—being a similar discipline—has been gaining popularity in recent years. As a result, Shimano may choose to integrate cyclocross components into the gravel-oriented GRX lineup rather than releasing new, dedicated cyclocross components.
From a market trend perspective, front single setups with wide-range rear cassettes and disc brakes are becoming more mainstream, replacing traditional double front setups and cantilever brakes. Given this shift, there may be little incentive for Shimano to develop separate groupsets specifically for cyclocross.
Shimano's GRX Gravel Bike Components and Features
The following is a summary of Shimano's GRX lineup of components for gravel bikes, its features, and the advantages and disadvantages of choosing GRX.