This project began with the desire to run 11-speed Shimano derailleurs and shifters with SRAM 10-42t XD cassettes. Granted the combination can work without modification - but performance wasn't quite what we'd expect from Shimano and SRAM's finest.
When used with a 10-42t cassette, the GoatLink 11Â re-positions SLX M7000, XT M8000 and XTR M9000 rear derailleurs such that free chain length between the cassette and the top derailleur pulley is within 1% of what Shimano intended while cassette tooth engagement in the smallest cog is improved by 27%.
Knowing that certain situations call for a range beyond that provided 10-42t or 11-42t cassettes, we tweaked the GoatLink 11 to also significantly improve Shimano 11spd rear derailleur performance with extended-range like the Wolf Tooth GCX 44t modified 10-44t XX1 or X01 cassette.
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Cassette • Compatibility
11-40 • Not Required
11-42 •  Not Required
11-45 •  GS/SGS Derailleur
11-46 •  GS/SGS Derailleur
10-42 •  GS/SGS Derailleur
10-44 •  GS/SGS Derailleur (Wolf Tooth GCX44) Â
10-45 •  Not Optimized
 9-44 •  Not Optimized
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Other notes:
10-42t • Improved by 99%
Free Chain in bottom cog (unsupported chain - shorter is better and will increase shifting precision):
10-44t • Improved by 32%
10-45t • Improved by 28%
11-45t • Improved by 36%
11-46t • Improved by 32%
 9-44t • Improved by 26%
Chain Wrap in bottom cog:
10-42t • Improved by 27%
10-44t • Reduced by 9%
10-45t • Reduced by 7%
11-45t • Reduced by 8%
11-46t • Improved by 12%
 9-44t • Reduced by 8%