Description
Super rare early MTB BioPace outer chainring from the 600EX triple crankset that was used in the touring group and also as part of the first XT aka ‘Deer head’ group. The 600EX triple chainset was originally designed for wide range ‘Alpine’ touring bikes, but as Shimano realised that mountain biking was indeed going to become a thing they used this chainset for the impartial ‘Deer head’ group. The Deer head name comes from the logo on the M700 range of parts, Shimano’s initial top end entry into the brand new MTB market.
These BioPace rings are nicely finished in a clear high shine alloy and feature a wonderfully futuristic BioPace decal that looks like it was made on a Spectrum. The 50 tooth outer ring is pretty punchy, but it was only available in 50 or 48 so I guess everyone was tougher back then! As far as I can tell these were discontinued/replaced in 1987, however these rings carry a 1988 date code, I guess they continued to make some spares for a little while.
