Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS: Your Guide To 9-Speed Excellence

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS 9-speed rear derailleur. This is a workhorse, a reliable piece of kit that's been a staple for many cyclists. If you're here, you're likely looking for info, maybe a little troubleshooting, or just a general understanding of this awesome component. Well, you've come to the right place! We'll cover everything from what makes the RD-M591 tick to how to keep it running smoothly. Let's get started!

Unveiling the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS

So, what's the buzz about the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS? Well, first off, "RD" stands for Rear Derailleur, the part that moves your chain across the cassette. "M591" is the model number, and "SGS" denotes the long cage version. The long cage is designed to accommodate a wider range of gears, which is super useful if you're tackling varied terrain, from steep climbs to fast descents. The 9-speed part means it's designed for 9-speed drivetrains, meaning it'll work perfectly with a 9-speed cassette and shifters.

This derailleur is known for its durability and smooth shifting. It's built to withstand the rigors of mountain biking and general trail use, which makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of cyclists. The Deore line is positioned as a mid-range component group, offering a fantastic balance of performance and value. You're not breaking the bank, and you're getting a reliable piece of equipment that'll get the job done. The design of the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS allows for crisp and accurate gear changes, ensuring you can find the right gear quickly and efficiently. The construction uses quality materials that are designed to withstand the elements, so you can ride with confidence, knowing your derailleur will perform when you need it most. It's also relatively easy to maintain, which is a major plus for anyone who likes to keep their bike in top shape. The RD-M591 provides a great riding experience. It is a solid performer that provides excellent value for your money, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned riders and those new to the sport. The features of the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS allow for a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience. The design is optimized for efficient power transfer, which can result in less energy expenditure and greater endurance, allowing you to ride for longer distances without fatigue. The performance enhancements of this derailleur can greatly improve your riding efficiency, so you can enjoy riding your bike even more.

Key Features and Specifications

Cage Length: SGS (Super Long Cage) – great for wide-range cassettes.
Speeds: 9-speed
Mount Type: Direct Mount and Conventional Mount compatibility
Material: Durable construction, typically with aluminum and steel components.
Weight: Relatively lightweight, considering its durability.
Compatibility: Designed for Shimano 9-speed systems.

Maintaining Your Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS: Keeping it Running Smooth

Alright, let's talk about keeping your Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring it shifts smoothly and lasts a long time. Here are some essential tips:

Cleaning

Regular Cleaning: After each ride, or at least every few rides, give your derailleur a good cleaning. Use a brush and degreaser to remove dirt, grime, and old chain lube. This prevents buildup that can affect shifting performance.
Proper Degreasing: Apply the degreaser to the derailleur and let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grease and grime. Then, use a brush or rag to wipe away the loosened dirt. Make sure to rinse with water, or wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth.

Lubrication

Lubrication is Essential: After cleaning, lubricate the moving parts of the derailleur, including the pivots and the chain guide pulleys. Use a quality bike chain lubricant. Apply a small amount of lube and wipe off any excess to prevent it from attracting dirt.
Types of Lube: The lubricant you choose matters. Wet lubes are great for wet conditions, but attract more dirt. Dry lubes are better for dry conditions, as they don't attract as much dirt, but require more frequent application. Choose what works best for your riding environment.

Adjustments

Cable Tension: Make sure your cable tension is correct. Too much or too little tension can cause shifting problems. Use the barrel adjuster on your rear derailleur to fine-tune the cable tension.
Limit Screws: Adjust the limit screws to prevent the chain from overshifting and falling off the cassette or into the spokes. These screws set the range of motion for the derailleur.

Inspection

Check for Wear: Regularly inspect the derailleur for wear and tear. Look for bent parts, worn pulleys, and any damage that might affect performance.
Pulley Inspection: Check the pulleys for wear. Worn pulleys can affect shifting accuracy. Replace them if necessary. Pulleys often wear down over time, so keep an eye on them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things go wrong, even with a reliable derailleur like the RD-M591. Let's troubleshoot some common problems.

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Poor Shifting Performance

Problem: Gears don't shift smoothly, or the chain jumps around.
Solutions:
- Cable Tension: Check and adjust the cable tension using the barrel adjuster.
- Hanger Alignment: Make sure the derailleur hanger (the part that connects the derailleur to the frame) is straight. A bent hanger can cause major shifting problems.
- Cleanliness: Clean the derailleur and chain thoroughly. A dirty drivetrain can cause poor shifting.
- Lubrication: Make sure the derailleur is properly lubricated.

Chain Noise

Problem: You hear a constant grinding or rubbing noise.
Solutions:
- Cable Tension: Fine-tune the cable tension.
- Limit Screws: Adjust the limit screws to prevent the chain from rubbing on the cassette or the derailleur cage.
- Chain Wear: Check if your chain is worn. A worn chain can cause noise and poor shifting. Use a chain checker to measure chain stretch.

Chain Drops

Problem: The chain falls off the cassette or chainrings.
Solutions:
- Limit Screws: Adjust the limit screws to prevent the chain from overshifting.
- Hanger Alignment: Ensure the derailleur hanger is straight.
- Chain Wear: A worn chain might cause chain drops. Consider replacing the chain.

Bent Derailleur

Problem: The derailleur is physically bent.
Solutions:
- Hanger Alignment: Check the hanger alignment first. Sometimes, the hanger is bent, not the derailleur.
- Replacement: If the derailleur is bent beyond repair, it's time for a replacement. Thankfully, the RD-M591 is reasonably priced.

Replacing the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS

Eventually, you might need to replace your Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS. Whether it's due to wear and tear, or a mishap on the trail, knowing how to replace it is a useful skill. This is a fairly straightforward process:

Tools You'll Need

Hex Wrenches: You'll need these to loosen and tighten the bolts.
Screwdriver: Might be needed to remove and replace the cable.
Bike Stand (Optional, but helpful): Makes the process much easier.
Cable Cutter: If you're replacing the cable.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Remove the Cable: First, disconnect the shift cable from the derailleur. Loosen the cable pinch bolt on the derailleur using a hex wrench. If you're replacing the cable, cut it now.
Unbolt the Derailleur: Unscrew the bolt that holds the derailleur to the derailleur hanger. Use a hex wrench for this.
Remove the Old Derailleur: Carefully remove the old derailleur from the bike.
Install the New Derailleur: Align the new derailleur with the derailleur hanger, and tighten the mounting bolt. Make sure it's snug, but don't overtighten.
Reattach the Cable: If you're using the old cable, feed it through the derailleur and tighten the cable pinch bolt. If you're using a new cable, thread it through the housing and connect it to the derailleur.
Adjust the Derailleur: Adjust the limit screws and cable tension for proper shifting. Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the shifting.
Test and Fine-Tune: Test the shifting through all the gears. Make any final adjustments to the cable tension and limit screws as needed.

Upgrading and Compatibility

While the Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS is designed for 9-speed drivetrains, let's explore some upgrade and compatibility options.

Upgrading to a Newer Derailleur

If you are looking to upgrade, you could potentially move to a newer Deore model or even a higher-end Shimano groupset. Keep in mind that when upgrading your rear derailleur, it's essential to consider compatibility with your other drivetrain components, like the shifters and cassette. For example, if you have a 9-speed cassette and shifters, you'll need a 9-speed compatible derailleur.

Compatibility Considerations

Shifters: Make sure the derailleur is compatible with your shifters' gear ratio (9-speed in this case).
Cassette: Ensure your cassette is also 9-speed. The RD-M591 SGS will work with most 9-speed cassettes.
Chain: Use a 9-speed chain for optimal performance.

Final Thoughts: Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS

There you have it, guys! The Shimano Deore RD-M591 SGS is a reliable and versatile rear derailleur that's served countless cyclists well. With proper care and maintenance, it will provide smooth and consistent shifting for many miles. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting started, understanding and maintaining your bike's components is key to enjoying the ride. So, keep your chain lubed, your gears shifting smoothly, and get out there and enjoy the trails!