SHIMANO SL-M351 Nos Exage Trail Thumb Shifters Sis Mountain
( Brand: Shimano ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SL-M351 ), ( Type: Shifters ), ( Color: Black ), ( For Bike Type: Mountain Bike ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan ), ( Vintage: Yes )
Review SHIMANO Nos Vintage Exage Trail Thumb Shifters Speed Sis Mountain
The **Shimano SL-M351 NOS Exage Trail Thumb Shifters** represent a refined blend of precision engineering and ergonomic innovation, designed to elevate the shifting experience for mountain bikers who demand both responsiveness and comfort. Part of Shimano s Exage lineup, these shifters are crafted with a focus on trail riding, where quick, intuitive adjustments and reliable performance are paramount. The **NOS (New Old Stock) designation** ensures you re receiving a high-quality, pre-owned unit that has been carefully restored to like-new condition, offering the durability and reliability of a brand-new part without the premium price tag. The **Exage Trail Thumb design** is a standout feature, featuring a thumb-operated lever that allows for effortless, one-handed shifting ideal for technical descents or when navigating tight corners where hand positioning is critical. The ergonomic thumb pad is contoured to fit naturally in your palm, reducing fatigue during long rides and providing a secure grip even when wearing gloves. The shifting mechanism is built with Shimano s signature precision, delivering smooth, crisp index shifts with minimal effort, thanks to the optimized cable pull ratio and reinforced internals. These shifters are compatible with Shimano s **Deore and SLX drivetrains**, making them a versatile choice for riders upgrading their setup without needing a full system overhaul. The **sis (Shimano Index System) compatibility** ensures seamless integration with modern electronic and mechanical shifting systems, offering flexibility whether you re running a traditional cable-actuated setup or a more advanced electronic shifting solution. Constructed from high-grade materials, including a durable aluminum frame and reinforced shift levers, these shifters are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, from rocky descents to muddy climbs. The **trail-specific tuning** ensures optimal shift feel and consistency, even under demanding conditions, while the compact design minimizes clutter on your handlebars. Whether you re a competitive enduro rider or a weekend warrior tackling technical singletrack, the SL-M351 NOS Exage Trail Thumb Shifters deliver a perfect marriage of performance and ergonomics, making them a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on shifting quality.
The Shimano SL-M351 NOS Exage Trail Thumb Shifters are a popular choice among mountain biking enthusiasts, particularly for those who prefer thumb shifters and appreciate the reliability of NOS (New Old Stock) components. Below is a detailed breakdown of their pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
1. **Reliability and Durability**
The SL-M351 shifters are part of Shimano s Exage series, known for their robust build quality and longevity. NOS units often come with higher-quality internals and fewer signs of wear compared to modern production models, making them a trusted choice for riders who prioritize durability.
2. **Ergonomic Design**
Thumb shifters like the SL-M351 are favored by many mountain bikers because they allow for quick, precise shifting without removing hands from the bars. The thumb lever design reduces fatigue during long rides and provides better control in rough terrain.
3. **Compatibility**
These shifters are compatible with a wide range of Shimano drivetrains, including Deore, SLX, and older XT models, making them versatile for upgrades or retrofits. They work seamlessly with Shimano s Di2 electronic system if paired with compatible controllers and batteries.
4. **Smooth Shifting**
The Exage series is renowned for its smooth and consistent shifting performance, even in wet or muddy conditions. The SL-M351 maintains this reputation, offering reliable operation in demanding environments.
5. **Aesthetic Appeal**
NOS components often carry a nostalgic or vintage charm, appealing to riders who appreciate the look of older Shimano gear. The SL-M351 s design is clean and functional, with a slightly retro feel that many riders find attractive.
6. **Cost-Effective Upgrade**
NOS parts can sometimes be found at a lower price than new equivalents, offering good value for riders who want high-quality components without the premium cost of the latest models.
7. **Minimal Maintenance**
Due to their robust construction and high-quality materials, these shifters require less frequent maintenance compared to cheaper alternatives. This makes them ideal for riders who want to minimize downtime.
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### **Cons**
1. **Limited Availability**
NOS parts can be difficult to source, especially for specific models like the SL-M351. Availability may depend on the seller s inventory, and prices can fluctuate based on demand. This can make planning an upgrade or repair more challenging.
2. **Potential for Inconsistencies**
Since NOS units are pre-owned, there is a risk of variability in condition. Some units may have minor wear or cosmetic imperfections, though reputable sellers typically inspect and test their NOS parts thoroughly. Always request photos or videos of the unit before purchasing to assess its condition.
3. **Compatibility with Modern Systems**
While the SL-M351 works well with many Shimano drivetrains, some newer systems (e.g., latest-generation Deore or SLX) may require slight adjustments or additional components (like spacers) to ensure proper fitment. Riders should verify compatibility with their specific setup before purchasing.
4. **Weight**
Older Shimano components, including NOS shifters, tend to be slightly heavier than their modern counterparts. While the difference is minimal, riders focused on weight savings may prefer newer, lighter models.
5. **Learning Curve for Older Models**
Some riders may find the operation of older shifters slightly less intuitive compared to newer designs, particularly if they are accustomed to modern ergonomics or electronic shifting. However, the SL-M351 is relatively straightforward to use.
6. **Price Volatility**
The price of NOS parts can be unpredictable. A unit may be listed at a reasonable price one day and significantly higher the next due to demand or scarcity. This can make budgeting more difficult.
7. **Limited Warranty or Support**
NOS parts typically come without a warranty, as they are pre-owned. Riders who purchase them should be prepared to handle any issues independently or through community support rather than relying on Shimano s official service.
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### **Conclusion**
The Shimano SL-M351 NOS Exage Trail Thumb Shifters are an excellent choice for mountain bikers who prioritize reliability, ergonomics, and a classic Shimano feel. Their robust construction, smooth shifting, and compatibility with a wide range of drivetrains make them a standout option for both retrofits and upgrades. However, their limited availability, potential inconsistencies in condition, and lack of warranty may pose challenges for some riders.
For riders who value performance, durability, and the nostalgic appeal of NOS components, the SL-M351 is a strong recommendation. Those who prefer the latest technology, lighter weight, or easier sourcing may opt for newer Shimano models instead.
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### **Recommendation**
If you are looking for a high-quality, reliable thumb shifter that offers a blend of performance and vintage charm, the **Shimano SL-M351 NOS Exage Trail Thumb Shifters** are an outstanding choice. Ensure you purchase from a reputable seller who provides detailed condition reports and photos to verify the unit s quality. Pair them with a compatible Shimano drivetrain (e.g., Deore or SLX) for optimal performance.
For riders who prioritize modern features like electronic shifting or lighter weight, consider newer Shimano models such as the SL-M8000 or SL-M7000, but be prepared to pay a premium for these advantages. Ultimately, the SL-M351 is ideal for those who appreciate the best of both worlds classic reliability and modern capability.
Details:
New Old Stock, Shimano Exage Trail SIS Thumb Shifters. All Complete bicycles are shipped partially disassembled. Thanks!, SL-M351 for 3 x 6 drive train. Shipping is quoted for the lower 48 USA.
New Old Stock does not equate to perfection. Were sealed in bag prior to photos. All others must contact for a shipping quote.
part #: slm351 prices
- $29.00-$52.95
specifications vintagebikepartiz:
- brand: Shimano
- mpn: Sl-m351
- type: Shifters
- color: Black
- for bike type: Mountain Bike
- country of origin: Japan
- vintage: Yes
general vintagebikepartiz:
- Cycling > Vintage Cycling > Vintage Bicycle Parts
offer vintagebikepartiz:
- options: Ship-to-home
- sold: 0
- started: June 5, 2026
- quantity: 2
- availability: In Stock
shipping vintagebikepartiz:
- transit: 4-8 Days
- type: Fixed
- service: Standard
- class: Standard
- cost: $0.00
seller vintagebikepartiz:
- rating: 99.9%
- # reviews: 5216
- city: Columbia, Missouri
payments vintagebikepartiz:
- wallet: Google-pay
- other
- credit card: Mastercard
returns vintagebikepartiz:
- policy: No Returns
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