If you're looking for an affordable and reliable groupset for your budget or flat-bar build, the Shimano Essa 8-speed rear derailleur is a sleeper hit worth checking out. I recently installed it on my flat-bar gravel setup (converted Merida Silex 200), and here’s my take on how it performs under real-world conditions—especially in terms of shifting and chain stability during a bounce test.
First Impressions
Out of the box, the Shimano Essa derailleur looks clean and minimal. It’s clearly built for entry-level or hybrid/commuter-style bikes, but don’t let that fool you—this thing holds its own. It features Shimano’s standard spring tension and a long cage design (SGS), giving it compatibility with wide-range 8-speed cassettes like 11-34T or even 11-45T with a long enough chain.
Shifting Test
For the shifting test, I used:
Cassette: 11-45T, 8-speed
Shifter: Shimano Altus 8-speed Rapidfire Plus
Crankset: 1x setup (36T chainring)
Performance
The shifting is surprisingly crisp. Downshifts are quick and responsive even under moderate load. Upshifts are smooth, though a bit more deliberate—about what you'd expect at this price point. After a quick barrel adjuster tweak, the shifting was dialed in nicely across the full range.
It’s not quite as snappy as higher-tier Shimano (like Alivio or Deore), but for urban rides, light gravel, or weekend spins, it’s more than capable.
Bounce Test (Chain Retention)
To test chain retention, I rode through:
Gravel paths with moderate vibration
Sudden drops and curbs
Rough concrete roads with potholes
You may check this video: Shimano Essa Shifting and Bounce Test
Result:
The chain stayed put! The derailleur’s spring tension is good enough to resist slap and keep things under control on uneven terrain. While it's not a clutch derailleur (like those found on Deore or GRX), the long cage and decent tension prevent most chain drops.
That said, if you're planning on aggressive trail riding or downhill action, you might want something with a clutch mechanism. But for city streets, commuting, and light off-road trails? The Shimano Essa can handle it.
Verdict
✅ Pros:
Affordable and easy to find
Reliable 8-speed shifting
Good chain retention for casual riding
Perfect for budget builds and flat-bar conversions
⚠️ Cons:
No clutch mechanism
Slightly slower shifts under heavy load
Plastic jockey wheels feel entry-level (but get the job done)
Final Thoughts
The Shimano Essa 8-speed rear derailleur punches above its weight. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional—and that’s exactly what you want in a budget or commuter build. Pair it with a decent cassette and a clean chain line, and you'll get a solid riding experience that won’t let you down.
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