Best Rear Bike Derailleurs of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Rear bike derailleurs are an essential component of any bicycle's drivetrain. They work by moving the bike's chain between different gears on the rear cassette, allowing the rider to adjust their pedaling effort to match the terrain. Modern derailleurs are typically made of lightweight materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, and feature advanced engineering for smooth, precise shifting. Some models even incorporate electronic shifting technology for the ultimate in performance and convenience. Whether you're a casual rider or a serious cyclist, a high-quality rear bike derailleur can make a big difference in your overall riding experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS Rear Derailleur Cover #TOP 1
Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS Rear Derailleur
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SHIMANO Tourney TY500 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur Cover #TOP 2
SHIMANO Tourney TY500 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SHIMANO Tourney TY300 Rear Derailleur Cover #TOP 3
SHIMANO Tourney TY300 Rear Derailleur
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Rear Bike Derailleurs

#TOP 1

Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS Rear Derailleur

RDM310DL
Black
DIRECT MOUNT
Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS Rear Derailleur Cover
Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS 7/8-speed Rear Der Black,Long Cage

The Shimano RDM310DL Altus GS Rear Derailleur is a high-quality component that is perfect for city sport and youth bikes. With a chain wrap capacity of 43 teeth and a derailleur action of top-normal, this derailleur is designed to provide smooth and reliable shifting. It has a black color and is compatible with Shimano/SRAM 8 drivetrain spacing. The largest cog is 34 teeth and it weighs 326g.

What We Like
Easy installation
Quiet operation
Cost-effective performance
Compatible with various setups
Durable and long-lasting
What We Don't Like
Installation instructions not included
Minor grease annoyance
#TOP 2

SHIMANO Tourney TY500 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur

TY500
Black
One Size
SHIMANO Tourney TY500 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur Cover
Shimano Tourney TY500 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur

The SHIMANO Rear Derailleur is a bike shifter designed to be compatible with all Shimano 6 and 7 speed shifters. Its advanced light action design makes shifting gears easier and smoother. The SGS cage can handle a wide range of gearing, making it suitable for various terrains. The SIS Rear index shifting ensures accurate and precise gear changes. The 13 tooth pulleys offer long service life and less noise, providing a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

What We Like
Quality build
Easy installation
Great shifting performance
Affordable price
Works well with older bikes
What We Don't Like
Lack of setup instructions
Plastic cogs may deter some
#TOP 3

SHIMANO Tourney TY300 Rear Derailleur

AMRDTX35B
Black
One Size
SHIMANO Tourney TY300 Rear Derailleur Cover
Shimano Tourney RD-TY300-SGS 6/7-Speed Mountain Bicycle Rear Derailleur , Black, One Size

The SHIMANO Tourney TY300 6/7-Speed Rear Derailleur with Dropout Claw Hanger is a great choice for your bike. With the Smart Cage feature, the derailleur cage is shorter, making it compatible with MegaRange. The chain wrap capacity of 43 and long cage length provide easy and smooth shifting. Additionally, the SHIMANO Tourney TY300 Rear Derailleur is a replacement for the rd8162. The Smart Cage feature is especially useful for riders who frequently ride on steep hills or mountains. The shorter derailleur cage allows for easier shifting when tackling steep inclines. The long cage length and chain wrap capacity of 43 provide a smooth and reliable shifting experience, making it an excellent choice for riders of all levels.

What We Like
Great quality for the price
Smooth and clean shifting
Easy to install and adjust
Consistent performance
Superior to cheaper options
What We Don't Like
May require adjustments for fitting
Hanger geometry might not match
#TOP 4

Shimano Rear Derailleur, RD-TX800

ERDTX800SGSL
Black
7/8 Speed
Shimano Rear Derailleur, RD-TX800 Cover
Shimano Rear Derailleur, RD-TX800, 7/8 SPD, Direct Attach, Bla

The Shimano Rear Derailleur, RD-TX800, is a durable and efficient 3x8-speed rear derailleur designed for stress-free riding. With its light action shifting performance and double Servo-panta mechanism, this derailleur offers quick assembly and an Allen key type inner cable fixing bolt. It can accommodate a total capacity of 43T, making it a great choice for front bike derailleurs.

What We Like
Lightweight aluminum construction
Smooth shifting performance
Easy installation
Affordable price point
Durable for frequent use
What We Don't Like
Inexpensive appearance
#TOP 5

microSHIFT M21 Rear Derailleur

MSH-RD-M21L
Black/White
6/ 7 v pata larga
microSHIFT M21 Rear Derailleur Cover
microSHIFT | M21 Rear Derailleur | 6 and 7 Speed | Long Cage | Black

The microSHIFT M21 Derailleur is built to last with its strong composite and steel design, ensuring durability during your rides. It is compatible with Shimano's 6- and 7-speed systems, giving you flexibility whether you're on a mountain or road bike. The long cage design supports double or triple setups with a 32T configuration, allowing for smooth gear transitions. This versatility can enhance your biking experience by making it easier to tackle various terrains and inclines, ensuring you always have the right gear at your fingertips.

What We Like
Durable construction
Shimano compatibility
Long cage design
Supports various setups
#TOP 6

THALOUS Tourney RD-TZ31-A Rear Derailleur

TH-TZ31-G-US
Hanger mount
6/7 speed
THALOUS Tourney RD-TZ31-A Rear Derailleur Cover
THALOUS Bicycle Rear Derailleur Tourney RD-TZ31-A 6/7 Speed for MTB Bike Hanger Mount

The THALOUS Tourney RD-TZ31-A Rear Derailleur is a high-quality and durable bicycle transmission suitable for 6-speed and 7-speed SIS index variable speed drives. Made of sturdy steel, this rear derailleur is resistant to deformation and damage, ensuring long-lasting performance. The smooth and silent guide wheel allows for effortless shifting, providing a comfortable riding experience. With its hook mounted design, it is important to check if your bicycle is compatible before purchasing. This versatile rear derailleur is suitable for a wide range of bikes, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and folding bikes, making it an ideal choice for various cycling needs.

What We Like
Easy to install
Good fit for bike
Decent quality for price
Works well overall
Includes all necessary parts
What We Don't Like
Flimsy construction
Noisy operation
#TOP 7

Inkesky RD-TZ31-GS Rear Derailleur for Mountain Bike

703931641532
Black
Inkesky RD-TZ31-GS Rear Derailleur for Mountain Bike Cover
Inkesky RD-TZ31-GS 6/7 Speed Rear Derailleur with Direct Mount, Medium Cage, for Mountain Bike

The Inkesky RD-TZ31-GS Rear Derailleur is a medium-cage, direct mount derailleur designed for 6 and 7-speed SIS Index Shifting drivetrains on mountain bikes. With a total capacity of 34T, largest sprocket of 28T, and smallest sprocket of 14T, this derailleur is a great option for riders looking to upgrade their shifting performance. However, it is important to note that it is not compatible with hub bolt mount frames and bikes with a total capacity exceeding 34T.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good value for money
Works effectively after tuning
Compatible with various bikes
What We Don't Like
Lower quality materials
Limited range of motion
#TOP 8

Shimano Deore M5100 Rear Derailleur

C8C085
Black
SGS - long
Shimano Deore M5100 Rear Derailleur Cover
Shimano Deore M5100 Rear derailleur, 11-Speed, Shadow+, SGS Long cage,Black

The Shimano Deore Derailleur features a low-profile design that helps protect it from damage caused by rocks and obstacles on the trail. This durable construction ensures that you can ride confidently without worrying about the derailleur getting knocked out of alignment. Additionally, the built-in chain stabilizer effectively prevents the chain from bouncing or hitting, leading to a smoother ride. With high-quality workmanship, this rear derailleur is designed to enhance your cycling experience and improve overall performance, giving you peace of mind during your rides.

What We Like
Durable low-profile design
Smoother ride with chain stabilizer
High-quality construction
Resistant to damage
#TOP 9

Shimano Acera RD-M3020-SGS Rear Derailleur

ERDM30208SGSL
Black
SGS Long Cage
Shimano Acera RD-M3020-SGS Rear Derailleur Cover
Shimano Acera RD-M3020-SGS Rear Derailleur - 7/8 Speed, Long Cage, Black

The Shimano Acera Rear Derailleur is a high-performance component designed for 7 and 8-speed drivetrains. Its double servo mechanism allows for precise and smooth shifting, ensuring that the rear derailleur moves along the optimal path. This feature enhances the overall performance of the derailleur, making it a reliable choice for cyclists of all levels. The Shimano Acera Rear Derailleur also boasts versatile compatibility, allowing it to work seamlessly with a wide range of bikes. With its SGS long cage, it has a chain wrap capacity of up to 45 teeth, providing ample room for a variety of gear configurations. Whether you're a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, the Shimano Acera Rear Derailleur offers the convenience and reliability you need for a smooth and efficient ride.

What We Like
Easy installation
Smooth and quiet shifting
Handles wide range cassettes
Good value for budget
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
No clutch mechanism
Limited spring lock features
#TOP 10

THALOUS Bicycle Rear Derailleur RD-TY21B 6/7 Speed

TH-TY21B 6/7-US
Direct mount
Normal
THALOUS Bicycle Rear Derailleur RD-TY21B 6/7 Speed Cover
THALOUS Bicycle Rear Derailleur Tourney RD-TY21B 6 7 Speed for MTB Mountain Bike Direct Mount Hanger Mount

The THALOUS Bicycle Rear Derailleur is a high-quality and durable option for your bike. Made of sturdy steel, it is resistant to deformation and damage, ensuring long-lasting performance. This rear derailleur is designed for 6-speed and 7-speed SIS index variable speed drives, making it suitable for a wide range of bikes including mountain bikes, road bikes, and folding bikes. Its direct installation method allows for easy setup, and its compatibility with various bike types makes it a versatile choice. With THALOUS' professional customer service, any questions or concerns can be addressed promptly. Upgrade your bike's performance with the THALOUS Rear Derailleur.

What We Like
Easy installation
Affordable price
Strong and well-built
Good for kids' bikes
What We Don't Like
Heavy weight
No installation instructions
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do all rear derailleurs fit all bikes?

No, rear derailleurs are not interchangeable between all bikes. They need to be of the same model or type of bike. For example, a short cage length derailleur may fit on a road bike but may not easily fit on a mountain bike.

2. What is the difference between 1x and 2X rear derailleur?

A 2X rear derailleur generally has a wider gear range compared to a 1X derailleur. This means it offers easier climbing gears and avoids a 'spun out' experience on steep, fast descents. On the other hand, a 1X derailleur sacrifices some end-range gear capability due to having fewer gears.

3. What is the difference between road and mountain rear derailleur?

Mountain rear derailleurs are designed to shift larger rear cogs compared to road derailleurs. While cassettes can often be interchanged, the front derailleur and rear derailleur need to be matched if they are 10 speeds or more. Additionally, the front derailleur needs to be matched to the road or mountain shifter.

4. What derailleur will fit my bike?

To determine the derailleur that will fit your bike, you can count the number of cogs on your cassette if you are replacing an existing derailleur. Alternatively, you can count the number of steps your shifter runs through and add one to determine the number of gears your drivetrain has.

5. Is it easy to replace a rear derailleur?

Replacing a rear derailleur on a road or mountain bike is not difficult and requires only one specific tool: a chain rivet extractor. With this tool, the process of changing a rear derailleur can be relatively straightforward.

Editor's Notes

During our rear bike derailleur research, we found 24 rear bike derailleur products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 48,788 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rear bike derailleurs list. We found that most customers choose rear bike derailleurs with an average price of $17.03.

The rear bike derailleurs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rear bike derailleurs, including SHIMANO, microSHIFT, THALOUS, Inkesky. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 274 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Rear Bike Derailleurs Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
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#TOP5
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#TOP10
Brand SHIMANO SHIMANO SHIMANO SHIMANO microSHIFT THALOUS Inkesky SHIMANO SHIMANO THALOUS
Color Black Black Black Black Black/White Hanger mount Black Black Black Direct mount
Material Alloy Steel Aluminum Metal Aluminum Composite, Steel Aluminum Aluminum other Aluminum Aluminum
Item Weight 50 Grams 0.3 Kilograms 0.85 Pounds 0.01 Ounces 279 Grams - 203 Grams 0.02 Ounces 0.39 Kilograms 0.26 Kilograms
Case Material - Aluminum - Aluminum Alloy Composite and Steel - Aluminum Aluminium Aluminum Aluminum
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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