Designed to pair with your Shimano XT or XTR crankset, the Shimano Oval Traction Chainring brings claims of improved rear wheel traction resulting from a more consistent pedal stroke. Absolute Black claims that this oval profile maximizes power transfer and smooths the rotation by reducing dead spots and capitalizing on the sweet spots compared to standard round rings. Each chainring size features its own unique oval profile, but the mud-clearing and chain-retaining narrow-wide tooth profile is universal across sizes.