Shimano released their latest lineup of brakes earlier this year, and there is already a lot of buzz about the new M8200, M8220, and M9220 models. All three bring fresh tech like low-viscosity mineral oil and improved piston seals to kill off that dreaded wandering bite point, but each one’s built with a different rider in mind. The M8200 keeps it light and fast with a two-piston setup, the M8220 steps up the stopping power for enduro riders with four pistons, and the M9220 goes full XTR with a stiffer and lighter one-piece design. Whether you’re chasing grams, control, or all-out power, Shimano’s latest lineup has a brake for your riding style.
M8200 vs M8220 vs M9220
M8200 (Deore XT, 2-piston)
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Paired with the BL‑M8200 lever, this option is the lighter, XC-style setup for trail or cross-country riding.
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Uses the new low-viscosity mineral oil, improved seals, and piston tech that Shimano borrowed from the XTR range—enhancing consistency and reducing wandering bite points.
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It’s your go-to for lighter weight and solid performance.
TBS Price – $229.95CAD each
M8220 (Deore XT, 4-piston)
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Same BL‑M8200 lever, but with the BR‑M8220 caliper for more stopping power—perfect for aggressive trail or enduro riders.
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Two-piece caliper design (cheaper, slightly heavier than XTR). Includes anti-rattle pad tweaks and a cleaner bleed port.
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Still uses the low-viscosity oil and new piston/seal tech for more predictable feel.
TBS Price – $289.95CAD each
M9220 (XTR, 4-piston)
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Full-on XTR treatment: one-piece caliper design (stiffer, lighter compared to XT’s two-piece).
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Shares the same internal updates—low-viscosity oil, improved piston/seal design. Smooth, consistent braking—which is the real win here.
TBS Price – $399.95CAD each
Which Should You Pick?
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Light packer or XC rider? Go with M8200—you’ll get crisp performance with minimal drag.
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Trail or enduro ripper? M8220 gives you the power you need without dropping serious cash.
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Chasing absolute performance and don’t mind the price tag? M9220 (XTR) is justified—refined feel, lighter weight, and more stiffness—but be ready to pay.
Shimano nailed the feel and consistency with this generation—so even with XT-level pricing, you’re getting big improvements. Honestly, if you ride hard, M8220 is the sweet spot. Unless you’re in pursuit of weight savings or gearhead-level upgrades, the difference between XT and XTR is real but modest—M8220 delivers 90% of that goodness for less dough.
Final Thoughts
Shimano didn’t just slap a new name on these brakes. They re-engineered pistons, switched fluids, tightened seals—everything to fight inconsistency. At the end of the day, Shimano’s new brake lineup covers the full spectrum of riders. The M8200 is the go-to if you want a lighter, faster feel for XC and trail. The M8220 hits the sweet spot for most riders, packing four-piston power and consistency without breaking the bank. And if you’re after the absolute best—where every gram and every bit of lever feel counts—the M9220 delivers XTR refinement at a premium.
Bottom line: unless you’re chasing weight savings or racing at the sharp end, the M8220 is the smart buy—powerful, reliable, and still reasonably priced. The other two are great, but the M8220’s are the workhorse most riders will be happiest on.
If you are looking for mountain bike brakes you can shop our full selection here. Remember that we offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD within North America. All orders are processed and shipped within 24 business hour as well.
Spend less and ride the best with TBS Bike Parts.
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