Tiagra, 105, they are all good, but they don't age as well. With Ultegra, Dura Ace you get 20 years out of them no problem, less maintenance too. Still have a campagnolo record gruppo from the early 80s. Good as new, those gruppos last forever.
I knew a guy about 30 years ago who took a leave from a bike shop to wrench on the European minor racing leagues. He told me that the bikes were outfitted with 105 and Shimano had techies with clipboards who would examine the parts after races and would interview him frequently about what he liked and didn't like as a mechanic. He usually said the parts were really good. When he returned to the bike shop in CA he would internally laugh at the people who were 30 lbs. overweight but still wanted Dura-Ace. I still use my 2002 Lemond Zurich with 6503 Ultegra. I'm old so I guess I like the look of the older Shimano parts. I do have a bike with Ultegra disks, but I don't think the brakes are any better than the 6500 Ultegra from 20 years ago--at least with the 28m tires I run. Awesome stuff.
@@rochester212 105 of this New generación is going to age even BETTER imo: only difference with durace and ultegra is weight (even then its only a 400 grams or less of a difference). Besides, I truly disagree bc, 105 has always been the 'I do what top of the line does, with the difference being I will last forever and cost you less maintenance' kind of groupset
I love how you called out people who buy dura ace thinking it will make them a more capable cyclist neglecting their own fitness and putting work in there. I know people who would have been triggered by you saying what you said but I love it. Chapeau
Extremely helpful. Love your point about being as fit as possible before spending a boatload on components. As a fitness coach I appreciate that. Subscribed.
I’ve just bought my first bike with a Shimano groupset for over ten years, I’ve been using Campagnolo Athena which is fab. I now have 105 and was immediately shocked at how well it changes, no doubt down to a decade of trickle down. I’m two stone overweight so saving a few hundred grams on Ultegra seems a bit daft in my case - agree completely with you. As for the elitism, I go for reverse psychology- turn up at a club ride with 105 and no-one has great expectations. And if you beat the snobs, they’re going to wonder how much faster you’d be on their bike and they’ll feel shite :-)
I think most people buy Ultegra for the prestige, most riders in group rides ride Ultegra and sometimes even Dura-Ace (which they really have no business having) so showing up with your 105 you might be given a bad look, and that's a bad start when you're trying to make cycling buddies. Unfortunately, the cycling community tends to be pretty elitist, perhaps as a fruit of the over-consumption society we live in, and I think the average cyclist tends to buy more expensive gear to show that he means business, instead of working on his skills (which is, in the end, what truly matters).
@ hmmm here you see everything from dentists riding super bikes, to just blokes on dirty old bikes with 9 speed groups, there is no noticeble difference in group riders :) Personally I will go for Ultegra on my next bike having always ridden 105, simply because it is only slightly more expensive here. and I decided life is to short to safe a few euro's on pretty much the only past time I spend money on.
This is very true in some countries, perhaps especially in south east asia where you will be judged by your groupset (e.g. if your Pinarello is on 105, its probably a chinese fake frame). In the Philippines, you have many folks using Super Record. Campy's marketing team have been sharp and spotted a "luxury" market in cycling.
Excellent video. Just to share on something works well for me: I am still riding this old khs aero turbo from early 90s with shimano tricolor group set attached. I only allow myself to upgrade the shifter from down tube shifter to briefter after i accommplished so called "target", which is to get my av speed to 32km/h for straight 40km on flat solo. (I know it is not much of a target, but trying my best here) After that, i only upgrade the hub set to better one after i clear 80km+ ride solo at 30km/h av. My target current target is to go up to 35km/h for 50km on flat solo for next upgrade to shimano 105. Once again it is a personal target and I know it is not that much. For me it is pretty hard to pull off. All the best.
As a bike mechanic you can always switch to compression less housings and upgrade the quality of the cables if you want better shifting on your current tiagra or 105 group set
Thank you for this. I had the same bike for the past fifteen years, and because of a garage door malfunction (and someone's sticky fingers), I no longer have a bike. I'm looking for something that will last another fifteen years, and this video has helped me decide on a group set. I just want to ride my bike. I don't care who's eyeballing my components or my outfit (as others have commented, cyclists can be snobs). One recommendation: Your breakdown is great, but it's rather repetitive. Ten minutes into it I felt like... "I get it. 105. Understood." Again, thank you.
Very good analysis and maybe a voice of reason most of us need to hear. I actually just ditched my plans of buying an ultegra bike and instead got a 105 one with a better frame and upgraded the wheels instantly. Still spent less overall. However you maybe don‘t take into account that people just like nice stuff and technology. I think I‘ll be mixing in some Ultegra parts over the long run (cranks, mechs, etc., tons of people take them off their new bikes and sell them for cheap) just for the fun of upgrading. Electronic shifting is also something I‘d like to try but cannot afford.
I loved my 105 groupo. It was reliable, the shifting was smooth. I thought it was a great groupo. It is circa 2016 so it isn't quite as light as the newer versions. Still I thought it was a great groupo. I would recommend 105s to anyone. I just built a new bike and I put Ultegra on it. I work at a bicycle shop so I was able to get a good deal on my parts. If I wasn't working at a bike shop, I definitely would have opted for a 105 groupo again.
Im new to cycling and bought my 2nd hand merida 400 with 105 group set. Super loving my every ride! smooth gear shifting. I always clean my bike after ride. Thanks for this!
My favorite group by far. 105 has consistently been the best performance/value group since the late ’80s. Durable as hell. Unless you compete, (got sponsors?), 105 is the best choice for most riders. 😎
agreed on the shoes point, its the most important part of the whole drivetrain. It is the part where all the power that you produce with your legs goes on to the bike. And the comfort and feedback you get from good shoes that fit your feet will also give you more watts because you are not in discomfort.
Good review. The only reason for Ultegra is DI2, if mechanical go for 105. Both 105 and Ultegra are very durable if you look after your drivetrain. I've put 80,000km on my Ultegra DI2 and replace the chain when the chain gauge says to, have replaced one cluster, both front rings are still good. The rear derailleur tension spring needed re-greasing at 70,000km. Still shifts like a brand new bike. Dura Ace does not have a good record of durability, everyone I know who rides Dura Ace need to replace cluster and rings after 12 months of cycling 10,000km, and wish they had Ultegra.
I'm novice rider and I'm still looking for my first Cannondale road bike. However, by far the best informative video I've seen so far... I hit the liked button and subscribed to your channel. keep up the good WORK!
I would completely agree. I have ridden on 105’s for over 10 years. I’m about to buy a new bike that comes with Ultegra components. It wasn’t the main reason for choosing this specific bike, and I would confess that prestige is probably the only justification (albeit an illogical one). I actually could tell the difference between the shifting but like you said, not enough to make a significant difference.
My bike shop had two versions of the same bike. Different sized but also one with Ultegra and the other with 105. The only difference I felt as an amateur cyclist was price. They "downgraded" the Ultegra bike to 105 for me and I couldn't be happier. Now I do think Ultegra Di2 seems like a solid upgrade.
So true. My mountain bike came with top of the line SRAM. Not worth the maintenance hassle. The majority of us just need quality and durability. 105 and XT from now on.
I think you raise very good points, especially with price of replacement parts and about the biggest performance benefits come from working on your self, and marginal gains from component upgrades won't make the biggest difference in your cycling performance, unless you are at the top level. There is an aspect you didn't touch up on, which is very prevalent in cycling, its the emotional aspect, what people want, for what ever reason it is. People want stuff, rarely do they need stuff. If you do have the money to spend on your Dura Ace and if it gets you out cycling more, then good for you. If you do maintain your group set properly, it can last you a long, long time. I personally work on a lot of bikes, both for myself and for my friends, and I find it way more enjoyable to work on the higher end group sets. They are just made of far superior materials, and over a long time, if maintained properly, they'l look and work better. Little rust here and there, flex in materials over time, wearing through the crank coating on 105 and Ultegra which you seldom find on the higher end group sets. I however really appreciate what they have done with the trickle down technology of the lower and mid tear group sets.
I have both 105 (aluminium frame) and Ultegra (Carbon frame). Both are well maintained. I'm 60 years old and 6'5, I enjoy them both all the time. I don't really care what other riders think when they see my 105, I'm just having fun riding. Ride on.
Thanks for the great review. Just pulled the trigger on a new Cervelo with 105 group set. Got comfortable in large part due to your reviews. I currently ride on 9 y/o Ultegra and expect to have essentially the same performance.
I've been debating between buying Domane SL 5 and SL 6. Now I see the difference and will for sure get SL 5 for its 105. Thanks for your value. Keep it up :)
I have bikes with all three group-sets. The deference in the shifting between 105 and Dura-ace is minimal at best. the new 105 is just so good, although the DA shifter does feel a little more solid and well built. The brakes is where I noticed the real difference. I have ultegra and 105 disc and the ultegra is just so much nicer.
Man... I have invested once in a DA group set. The 7800 back then. Well it's still kicking it, shifting with no hesitation. Like you said; proper care makes them last. I upgraded the group set to Ultegra 6700. Still running 10 speed. Which is enough for me. I'm doing club and bunch rides. Due the Covid pandemic we still don't have race events over here. The DA (7800) will be going on my backup bike for rainy days. Great video. and Yeah. Just Subscribed hihihihihi.
I just picked up a 105 group set (haven’t installed it yet) and almost spent the extra money for Ultegra until I found out the weight is the only difference and its not that much. Best bang for the buck by far is 105. I’m upgrading from Tiagra and the weight from Tiagra to 105 is significant. Can’t wait to feel the difference.
Heck, I still use Claris and still have no intention to upgrade, even though I can afford the higher end groupset. The gain of a groupset is mostly that little bit of comfort, less jumps between gears, and smoother quicker shifting, which is not significant enough compared to the price difference. Weight? most people can lose 1-2 kg from their body for free (or even saved money not buying chips). Before thinking about upgrading groupsets, get better tires, wheels, shoes, helmet, and probably brakepads, they make bigger difference.
I ride a 22-year-old Allez Pro with Ultegra 6500/6501, a 2x9, dual-pivot rim brake set with a 3-piece crankset. Ultegra 6500/6501 was significantly better than the 105 (5500) set of that era, but there's no way I'd choose the two-decades-old Ultegra over today's 105. Still, that 22-year-old Ultegra set is plenty good enough for my current state of fitness, and may well be good enough for the rest of my cycling life (I'm 62). Pedaler nailed the key principles here: before you upgrade your groupset, upgrade your "contact points" and your fitness. Even Claris R2000 is sufficient for most casual riders.
I just looked at the same bike the other day. I think I may go with it, but the SL6 has a paint job I love more. But I’d rather have 105 and save for carbon rims.
Indonesia has been killing it out there with their new bikes. Polygon is an underrated brand. The Strattos S7 disc is a carbon fiber road bike has the 105 and it only costs $1800. The S8 is an Ultegra and it only costs $2300. Java is another Indonesian brand but unfortunately, it's tricky to get in the US. The Fuoco 5 is cheaper but the shipping is pricey.
Even the tiagra groupset is great nowadays thanks to that trickle down reganomics cycling tech you talked about. I ride 1985 600 group set myself. The centurion ironman dave scott baby. Friction shifting. Oh yea
After running all three mechanical groupsets on the same frame, about 1 year each groupset, rim brake version, the best combo I've come up with can be seen below: -DuraAce 9100 shifters, derailleurs and brake calipers. -SRAM Red 11 speed, hollow pin chain. -RS500 bottom bracket. -Polished stainless steel cables with SP41 housing. -Ultegra R8000 cassette. -105 5700 cranks -DuraAce 9100 hubs and skewers. The tech does tricle down, but not like people think, there's a massive difference between DuraAce and 105, not just looks and weight. Shifters have a different throw and feel when shifting, derailleurs are different etc. Can't speak for the hydro brake version or Di2 as I have no interest in them for now.
Great points! (And i strongly agree that regular maintenance is key, whatever equipment u ride!) Also, *IF YOU'RE RACING you'll be crashing. It's inevitable (especially in criteriums). So that means u'll be trashing equipment. It's an unavoidable part of the sport, at all levels. (Plus, u WILL be racing & training in rainy, gritty, messy weather --u cannot let crappy conditions hold u back!) And it really sucks trashing top-of-the-line equip! And so knowing that your pro bike is eventually, likely, gonna get destroyed, this can psychologically hold u back from fully going-for-it, which u must be willing to do to be a top racer (*SHORT OF PUTTING YOUR LIFE IN DANGER!* ---DON'T DO THAT!! haha). Envision 200 riders in one big group, curb-to-curb, all diving into that final corner just before the finish... --Like squeezing 10 lbs of potatoes into a 5 lb bag, somethin's gotta give! : D ---To win, u must be more than willing to sacrifice your bike! AND u must be able to keep your bike in working condition all the time, no matter what (racing-training-racing-training...repeat), without breaking the bank. So, RIDE a pro bike, if u can afford it --it's AMAZING! (and reserve it for dry conditions) ...but if u race, i suggest u race & train on decent, functional, affordable, MID-range equip... AND REALLY GO FOR THAT FINISH LINE!!! Be safe & good luck!
Looking at an entry-level colnago (CLX) and the difference between the 105 and Ultegra is $550 extra dollars - this was an excellent video and I think you've answered my question - I was going with Ultegra but now I think I should save the $$$
105 is King for the amateur riders like myself, have had my 105 for over 5 years and never had any trouble. It is smooth and works really well. Ultegra is probably the most I would upgrade to as an amateur cyclist but I don't think I would ever have the need to upgrade to fully Ultegra groupset.
105 is like Dura-Ace if they accidentally dropped the group set in a box I’d sand before leaving the factory. Maybe an exaggeration ;) To be clear, you do get what you pay for. Dura-Ace shifts night and day better than 105. I disagree that it’s not durable when compared to 105. I’d argue it’s more durable and requires less tuning over time. Ultegra is a good balance, offering nearly Dura-Ace shift quality when tuned properly at a significantly lower cost. If we’re talking DI2, hard to choose Dura-Ace over Ultegra. Way too much discussion about part replacement cost. As you say, maintain your bike and you’ll be thankful that you bought Ultegra over the long run. Not saying 105 is crap, it’s a good product. Ultegra and 600 before it have always been the sweet spot. You don’t know need to be a “racer”to appreciate the difference. An avid cyclist will be able to appreciate the product variations.
Fantastic informative video.. Respect mate.. you have made my decision to not bother in the future with more expensive group sets than my current 105.. cheers.
Great comparison video well done! I am currently using 105 R7000 groupset which is fantastic on a Bianchi Freccia Celeste. I was considering Ultegra for my second Titanium bike...after this video I shall stick to 105's 🙂🚴
Thank you buddie ... pretty well explained. Just buying my first road bike ... you helped me out. On my mountain bike I use XTR ... and it hurts so much (my purse) :) Thanks again and take care. Lukas from Czech Republic.
It is all about fashion. As a former pro cyclist, i know that it is all about the "engine" that pushes the bike unless you are at the same top level. Amateurs cyclists, my suggestion is, loose body weight instead of spending too much for just few hundred grams lighter groupo! Cheers from Vietnam
105 is fantastic for a mech group set. Otherwise just go with Ultegra DI2. Replace chain at first hint of stretch. Easy to check with a cheap Park Tool.
Im currently researching my next bike purchase. Had been looking at the Domane SL6 (with Ultegra) but after watching this Ive got to say I'll more likely go with the SL5 (with 105's) now. Pretty much the same bike groupset aside but 700 GBP/900 USD cheaper
I upgraded Shimano 6800 to Dura Ace 9100 mechanical. Huuuge difference. But Dura Ace brakes calipers are light and finicky. Ultegra was more solid and trouble free. Ultegra 8000 is probably a lot closer to Dura Ace and seems like the extra grams for a bit of durability is worth the "downgrade".
I raced on 105 my whole career and it stood up very well. I guess Di2 would be another motive? Never tried it and wonder if it is worth it. I am now on GRX with no complaints
Great video and agree, majority of cyclists will be more than happy with 105 and even then they probably wont be able to tell the difference much or make any improvement unlike proper bike fitting and upgrading wheels can do. I just found my dream bike frame (titanium) and since this will be my fun weekend bike for the next 5-10 years I've decided to splurge a little and go with ultegra/dura ace components. my weekday commuter bike will be tiagra/105 and happy with it.
I'm riding on ultegra and a carbon frame. The combination is very satisfactory. Acceleration is quick. Gear shifting is smooth and flawless. I tried 105. It was good. But after comparing with ultegra you will agree that 105 is not as smooth and efficient as ultegra. Dura ace is superb. But I will leave it to pro racers.
I was trying my brothers 105 bike AFTER buying my ultegra one. I was kind of disappointed wasting so much money. Ok, there is nothing wrong with it, but I ride just for fun. The good thing is that I also did the wrong choice with my bike overall. I will sell it and get a new 105 one, thx for my new helmet 😉
It's years later and I don't think di2 will ever trickle down to 105 for people who don't care about weight but do care about electronic shifting and want more durability that comes from not using exotic materials.
He says that Dura Ace is less durable than 105 or Ultegra. That hasn't always been the case. I suspect the move to ever increasing number of rear cluster ratios is behind this. I've stuck with Dura Ace since 1995 (8-speed) not just because its lighter and has better shifting but because I felt it was more durable too. I recently replaced my 11 speed Dura Ace rear derailleur with Ultegra simply as I didn't have the cash. Weight difference is 42grams. I can live with that. He is spot on about losing body weight. Over my 30+ years of riding my form was always best when I worried less about my equipment. I have 105 on my 2nd bike and the biggest difference is braking power and feel (alloy rims).
The truth is that the only significant quality differences between 105 and Ultegra was always chainring quality, hub bearings, brake pivots and jockey wheel bearings. Since most people are now buying discs and don't use the original Shimano hubs anyway, then 105 is a top performer with a little extra spent when stuff wears out. Dura-Ace pedals are the shizz though... and worth spending extra on because the bearings are better than anything else on the market and will outlast 2 or 3 sets of shifters and mech.
I have been riding for exactly 6 years now, I learned on a Colnago Super Replica with Campagnolo Nuovo Record (6-speed) with friction downtube shifters. One year later Tiagra 4400 9-speed with STI, since last year Dura Ace 7700 9-speed and recently Claris R2000 8-speed... but I'm now at the point where I want to really up my performance and 105 R7000 would be a dramatic progress for me and a good choice I guess.
I can't tell the difference in shifting between r7000 and r9000 groupsets but I'll experiment at my local keele/highway 7 Giant store. I figure a worthy upgrade from r7000 would be the r9000 class di2
I used to think Dura Ace is just posh 105 and Ultegra… until I needed to replace my FD after stripping the threads on it. My bad. FD-9100 uses stainless steel with intricate stamping that gives a real positive shifting. I tried buying a RD cage of a 9100 that swapped for a ceramic speed one bit had to return it after discovering that the R7000 one won’t fit the spindle on the cage. They’re incompatible. I held a 165mm R9100 crank just recently from the same seller and the heft is still there. I’ll get a R9100 brake for the intricate machining. I also sold my 11-28 CS-R9100 after 5 months to avoid losing value and downgraded to CS-8000. I would get a 11-25 CS-R9100 in the future and only use it when I join races or feel like improving my PB every once in a while. Titanium cogs look good and really feels light but is definitely a wallet buster.
i would say that if you stay in mechanical group sets then there is little need for more then 105 for most riders that are not racing. i would put the difference in cost into a slightly better frame then group set. When you go to hydraulic braking i think there is a massive difference between the 105 and the Ultegra. but the thing most missing in the 105 group set is the electronic shifting and that is what made me chose Ultega
That's a valid point that you brought up about the 105 groupset. I was always wondering how most people, or maybe in your opinion, how do you rate the Ultegra in between 105 and Dura-Ace? Is the Ultegra closer to Dura-Ace than 105? Or right in the middle. Let's say that in a scale from 1 to 10, 105=1 and Dura-Ace=10. Where would you place the Ultegra in this scale?
Well said I totally agree with you. It's all in your head. Most people are just status symbol than using common sense. Like you mentioned unless they have a lot of money to burned go for Ultegra or Dura ace.
Ultegra, if you want Di2. But most people probably buy complete bikes instead of components and then the next level up from the 105 bike does not only consist of the Ultegra groupset but other features as well like a damped seat post for example. But maybe you should mention that you can interchange spare parts like if your bike came with Ultegra you can still get 105 parts as replacements for Ultegra like the chain ring or cassette.
I have many road bikes. Most are 105...I have had zero problems with any of them. I do have one Dura Ace bike. And yes...I do notice a difference...but it's not enough to justify the cost difference
I've been on my Claris groupset for 5000km in and except for climbing steep hills, I've been enjoying it. Maybe a couple of extra cassettes would be nice😊
Bro I've ridden a Sora groupset and now I have a 105 it's totally worth it die to how smooth the change of gear to how long you need to maintain each year:)
I’m a 1x gravel grouch, but if I ever went full roadie I would be all over 105. Shifting smoothness is more a function of cable tension than groupset level in the rear world. A 105 with a fresh cable is smoother than dura-ace with a worn cable. Tons of people are riding worn out bling parts.
super video - seriously. I was just thinking of upgrading from 6700 and now I know that the path is to R7000. One more thing: 6700 to R7000 or to... Di2 Ultegra (if there is no that much of difference between R7000 and R8000). Would this be a BIG difference? No, I am NOT racing but I am riding a lot (10 000 km /year)
buy a bike with 105, and put ultegra or dura ace shifters on it. thats where most of the diffrences are in terms of the componetes. the tolerances on the dura ace shifter is just tighter which gives most of that crispiness of the shift.
Currently riding both 105 and ultegra,r7000 and r8000,,cant tell any difference,im a 5ft7inch 67 kg rider,,fairly fit,,spend the money on wheels,,105 all the way,,that much so im selling my ultegra groupo after 6 months,,does not make you any faster,,only thing ultegra has is the option to go di2,,which costs more and still does not make you go faster
The 105 hoods are exactly the same dimension as the dura ace mechanical disc hoods. It’s not the hydraulics that makes the hoods bigger it’s the cables . They get slimmer when you go Di2. That’s the difference. Good breakdown though man
Di2… a reason for going Ultegra. Both my road and gravel bike are 105, but I confess to being fascinated by electronic shifting. Heck that gravel bike is 105 5800 and I can't convince myself to upgrade to 7000 because of the abuse it takes without a hiccup. But electronic shifting…
105 isn’t a cheap groupset, all three groupsets are the pinnacle of technology and expensive, the serious cycling fraternity probably has a somewhat skewed perspective. I’m just upgrading to 105 from my entry level Cannondale which has been running with a SORA groupset for years with zero issues. When students on crappy rusty bikes which haven’t seen any oil this side of the millennium stop overtaking me, I’ll consider upgrading to Ultegra!
I've been 105 my whole life and have never been let down. I'm 57.
Tiagra, 105, they are all good, but they don't age as well. With Ultegra, Dura Ace you get 20 years out of them no problem, less maintenance too.
Still have a campagnolo record gruppo from the early 80s. Good as new, those gruppos last forever.
I knew a guy about 30 years ago who took a leave from a bike shop to wrench on the European minor racing leagues. He told me that the bikes were outfitted with 105 and Shimano had techies with clipboards who would examine the parts after races and would interview him frequently about what he liked and didn't like as a mechanic. He usually said the parts were really good. When he returned to the bike shop in CA he would internally laugh at the people who were 30 lbs. overweight but still wanted Dura-Ace.
I still use my 2002 Lemond Zurich with 6503 Ultegra. I'm old so I guess I like the look of the older Shimano parts. I do have a bike with Ultegra disks, but I don't think the brakes are any better than the 6500 Ultegra from 20 years ago--at least with the 28m tires I run. Awesome stuff.
Wow what a great example of how good 105 is. Thanks for sharing Jay
@@rochester212 105 of this New generación is going to age even BETTER imo: only difference with durace and ultegra is weight (even then its only a 400 grams or less of a difference). Besides, I truly disagree bc, 105 has always been the 'I do what top of the line does, with the difference being I will last forever and cost you less maintenance' kind of groupset
thats because youve never used ultegra or dura ace
Dura-Ace gives my ego an extra 100 watts.
😆
🤣🤣
Strange.... I get 128 watts more
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂😂
I use 105 on my commuter road bike. And the ultegra on my training bike with carbon frame. Both feel the same 😄
Yep, I have two BMC (GF01 Ultegra and GF02 105) and can't tell the difference. The Ultegra did wear out faster.
I love how you called out people who buy dura ace thinking it will make them a more capable cyclist neglecting their own fitness and putting work in there. I know people who would have been triggered by you saying what you said but I love it. Chapeau
Extremely helpful. Love your point about being as fit as possible before spending a boatload on components. As a fitness coach I appreciate that. Subscribed.
As an old roadie and racer from the 1980s and 1990s, I love your information. It is spot on! Thanks!
I’ve just bought my first bike with a Shimano groupset for over ten years, I’ve been using Campagnolo Athena which is fab. I now have 105 and was immediately shocked at how well it changes, no doubt down to a decade of trickle down. I’m two stone overweight so saving a few hundred grams on Ultegra seems a bit daft in my case - agree completely with you. As for the elitism, I go for reverse psychology- turn up at a club ride with 105 and no-one has great expectations. And if you beat the snobs, they’re going to wonder how much faster you’d be on their bike and they’ll feel shite :-)
Nice! Great comment 🤙🏼
I think most people buy Ultegra for the prestige, most riders in group rides ride Ultegra and sometimes even Dura-Ace (which they really have no business having) so showing up with your 105 you might be given a bad look, and that's a bad start when you're trying to make cycling buddies. Unfortunately, the cycling community tends to be pretty elitist, perhaps as a fruit of the over-consumption society we live in, and I think the average cyclist tends to buy more expensive gear to show that he means business, instead of working on his skills (which is, in the end, what truly matters).
is this in the US? I have never noticed that here in belgium.
I'm in Canada, but I'm pretty sure this is the case for the US as well
@ hmmm here you see everything from dentists riding super bikes, to just blokes on dirty old bikes with 9 speed groups, there is no noticeble difference in group riders :)
Personally I will go for Ultegra on my next bike having always ridden 105, simply because it is only slightly more expensive here. and I decided life is to short to safe a few euro's on pretty much the only past time I spend money on.
This is very true in some countries, perhaps especially in south east asia where you will be judged by your groupset (e.g. if your Pinarello is on 105, its probably a chinese fake frame). In the Philippines, you have many folks using Super Record. Campy's marketing team have been sharp and spotted a "luxury" market in cycling.
In the rural uk, as long as your bike is safe we dont really care.
Excellent video.
Just to share on something works well for me:
I am still riding this old khs aero turbo from early 90s with shimano tricolor group set attached. I only allow myself to upgrade the shifter from down tube shifter to briefter after i accommplished so called "target", which is to get my av speed to 32km/h for straight 40km on flat solo. (I know it is not much of a target, but trying my best here)
After that, i only upgrade the hub set to better one after i clear 80km+ ride solo at 30km/h av.
My target current target is to go up to 35km/h for 50km on flat solo for next upgrade to shimano 105.
Once again it is a personal target and I know it is not that much. For me it is pretty hard to pull off.
All the best.
A Carbon frame , 105 group set, and campagnolo Eurus wheelset is just perfect
As a bike mechanic you can always switch to compression less housings and upgrade the quality of the cables if you want better shifting on your current tiagra or 105 group set
Could you please elaborate more on this?
Thank you for this. I had the same bike for the past fifteen years, and because of a garage door malfunction (and someone's sticky fingers), I no longer have a bike. I'm looking for something that will last another fifteen years, and this video has helped me decide on a group set. I just want to ride my bike. I don't care who's eyeballing my components or my outfit (as others have commented, cyclists can be snobs).
One recommendation: Your breakdown is great, but it's rather repetitive. Ten minutes into it I felt like... "I get it. 105. Understood." Again, thank you.
Very good analysis and maybe a voice of reason most of us need to hear. I actually just ditched my plans of buying an ultegra bike and instead got a 105 one with a better frame and upgraded the wheels instantly. Still spent less overall. However you maybe don‘t take into account that people just like nice stuff and technology. I think I‘ll be mixing in some Ultegra parts over the long run (cranks, mechs, etc., tons of people take them off their new bikes and sell them for cheap) just for the fun of upgrading. Electronic shifting is also something I‘d like to try but cannot afford.
I loved my 105 groupo. It was reliable, the shifting was smooth. I thought it was a great groupo. It is circa 2016 so it isn't quite as light as the newer versions. Still I thought it was a great groupo. I would recommend 105s to anyone.
I just built a new bike and I put Ultegra on it. I work at a bicycle shop so I was able to get a good deal on my parts. If I wasn't working at a bike shop, I definitely would have opted for a 105 groupo again.
Im new to cycling and bought my 2nd hand merida 400 with 105 group set. Super loving my every ride! smooth gear shifting. I always clean my bike after ride. Thanks for this!
My favorite group by far. 105 has consistently been the best performance/value group since the late ’80s. Durable as hell. Unless you compete, (got sponsors?), 105 is the best choice for most riders. 😎
The only part that is genuinely inferior is the chain which wears out a lot quicker than a Ultegra or DA chain (2500 miles v 3500 miles roughly)
agreed on the shoes point, its the most important part of the whole drivetrain. It is the part where all the power that you produce with your legs goes on to the bike. And the comfort and feedback you get from good shoes that fit your feet will also give you more watts because you are not in discomfort.
Good review. The only reason for Ultegra is DI2, if mechanical go for 105. Both 105 and Ultegra are very durable if you look after your drivetrain. I've put 80,000km on my Ultegra DI2 and replace the chain when the chain gauge says to, have replaced one cluster, both front rings are still good. The rear derailleur tension spring needed re-greasing at 70,000km. Still shifts like a brand new bike. Dura Ace does not have a good record of durability, everyone I know who rides Dura Ace need to replace cluster and rings after 12 months of cycling 10,000km, and wish they had Ultegra.
I'm novice rider and I'm still looking for my first Cannondale road bike. However, by far the best informative video I've seen so far... I hit the liked button and subscribed to your channel. keep up the good WORK!
I would completely agree. I have ridden on 105’s for over 10 years. I’m about to buy a new bike that comes with Ultegra components. It wasn’t the main reason for choosing this specific bike, and I would confess that prestige is probably the only justification (albeit an illogical one). I actually could tell the difference between the shifting but like you said, not enough to make a significant difference.
My bike shop had two versions of the same bike. Different sized but also one with Ultegra and the other with 105. The only difference I felt as an amateur cyclist was price. They "downgraded" the Ultegra bike to 105 for me and I couldn't be happier. Now I do think Ultegra Di2 seems like a solid upgrade.
So true. My mountain bike came with top of the line SRAM. Not worth the maintenance hassle. The majority of us just need quality and durability. 105 and XT from now on.
Sram. Good ideas, bad american quality.
Top of the line Sram= entry level Shimano.
@@rochester212 MTB=SRAM, Road=Shimano
very articulate and talk a lot of sense , you deserve sponsorship simply because i feel you would sell products .
Very impressed with your analysis. Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your knowledge with us.
I think you raise very good points, especially with price of replacement parts and about the biggest performance benefits come from working on your self, and marginal gains from component upgrades won't make the biggest difference in your cycling performance, unless you are at the top level. There is an aspect you didn't touch up on, which is very prevalent in cycling, its the emotional aspect, what people want, for what ever reason it is. People want stuff, rarely do they need stuff. If you do have the money to spend on your Dura Ace and if it gets you out cycling more, then good for you. If you do maintain your group set properly, it can last you a long, long time. I personally work on a lot of bikes, both for myself and for my friends, and I find it way more enjoyable to work on the higher end group sets. They are just made of far superior materials, and over a long time, if maintained properly, they'l look and work better. Little rust here and there, flex in materials over time, wearing through the crank coating on 105 and Ultegra which you seldom find on the higher end group sets. I however really appreciate what they have done with the trickle down technology of the lower and mid tear group sets.
I have both 105 (aluminium frame) and Ultegra (Carbon frame). Both are well maintained. I'm 60 years old and 6'5, I enjoy them both all the time. I don't really care what other riders think when they see my 105, I'm just having fun riding. Ride on.
Thanks for the great review. Just pulled the trigger on a new Cervelo with 105 group set. Got comfortable in large part due to your reviews. I currently ride on 9 y/o Ultegra and expect to have essentially the same performance.
Great choice, all the best!
I've been debating between buying Domane SL 5 and SL 6. Now I see the difference and will for sure get SL 5 for its 105. Thanks for your value. Keep it up :)
I have bikes with all three group-sets. The deference in the shifting between 105 and Dura-ace is minimal at best. the new 105 is just so good, although the DA shifter does feel a little more solid and well built. The brakes is where I noticed the real difference. I have ultegra and 105 disc and the ultegra is just so much nicer.
Man... I have invested once in a DA group set. The 7800 back then. Well it's still kicking it, shifting with no hesitation. Like you said; proper care makes them last. I upgraded the group set to Ultegra 6700. Still running 10 speed. Which is enough for me. I'm doing club and bunch rides. Due the Covid pandemic we still don't have race events over here. The DA (7800) will be going on my backup bike for rainy days. Great video. and Yeah. Just Subscribed hihihihihi.
105 all the way for me, and I rack up 2000+miles a year.... 👍
Ultegra !! for the Di2 obviously !! when Shimano will make Di2 on 105, it's over for the Ultra Groupset
Keep the content coming!!! Cheers from Malaysia
I just picked up a 105 group set (haven’t installed it yet) and almost spent the extra money for Ultegra until I found out the weight is the only difference and its not that much. Best bang for the buck by far is 105. I’m upgrading from Tiagra and the weight from Tiagra to 105 is significant. Can’t wait to feel the difference.
Unless you are riding for money, the 105 is the only groupset you need.
Dude, You just saved me a boat load of money! Great info.! Outstanding video!
Heck, I still use Claris and still have no intention to upgrade, even though I can afford the higher end groupset. The gain of a groupset is mostly that little bit of comfort, less jumps between gears, and smoother quicker shifting, which is not significant enough compared to the price difference. Weight? most people can lose 1-2 kg from their body for free (or even saved money not buying chips).
Before thinking about upgrading groupsets, get better tires, wheels, shoes, helmet, and probably brakepads, they make bigger difference.
I ride a 22-year-old Allez Pro with Ultegra 6500/6501, a 2x9, dual-pivot rim brake set with a 3-piece crankset. Ultegra 6500/6501 was significantly better than the 105 (5500) set of that era, but there's no way I'd choose the two-decades-old Ultegra over today's 105. Still, that 22-year-old Ultegra set is plenty good enough for my current state of fitness, and may well be good enough for the rest of my cycling life (I'm 62). Pedaler nailed the key principles here: before you upgrade your groupset, upgrade your "contact points" and your fitness. Even Claris R2000 is sufficient for most casual riders.
Im very happy with my 2021 Emonda SL 5 with 105 group set. Very smooth, quite, reliable and robust. Period.
I just looked at the same bike the other day. I think I may go with it, but the SL6 has a paint job I love more. But I’d rather have 105 and save for carbon rims.
Thanks you are talking a lot of sense for most cyclists.
Indonesia has been killing it out there with their new bikes. Polygon is an underrated brand.
The Strattos S7 disc is a carbon fiber road bike has the 105 and it only costs $1800. The S8 is an Ultegra and it only costs $2300.
Java is another Indonesian brand but unfortunately, it's tricky to get in the US. The Fuoco 5 is cheaper but the shipping is pricey.
Very well thought out and presented video. Nice
Even the tiagra groupset is great nowadays thanks to that trickle down reganomics cycling tech you talked about. I ride 1985 600 group set myself. The centurion ironman dave scott baby. Friction shifting. Oh yea
After running all three mechanical groupsets on the same frame, about 1 year each groupset, rim brake version, the best combo I've come up with can be seen below:
-DuraAce 9100 shifters, derailleurs and brake calipers.
-SRAM Red 11 speed, hollow pin chain.
-RS500 bottom bracket.
-Polished stainless steel cables with SP41 housing.
-Ultegra R8000 cassette.
-105 5700 cranks
-DuraAce 9100 hubs and skewers.
The tech does tricle down, but not like people think, there's a massive difference between DuraAce and 105, not just looks and weight. Shifters have a different throw and feel when shifting, derailleurs are different etc.
Can't speak for the hydro brake version or Di2 as I have no interest in them for now.
Great points! (And i strongly agree that regular maintenance is key, whatever equipment u ride!)
Also, *IF YOU'RE RACING you'll be crashing. It's inevitable (especially in criteriums). So that means u'll be trashing equipment. It's an unavoidable part of the sport, at all levels. (Plus, u WILL be racing & training in rainy, gritty, messy weather --u cannot let crappy conditions hold u back!) And it really sucks trashing top-of-the-line equip! And so knowing that your pro bike is eventually, likely, gonna get destroyed, this can psychologically hold u back from fully going-for-it, which u must be willing to do to be a top racer (*SHORT OF PUTTING YOUR LIFE IN DANGER!* ---DON'T DO THAT!! haha).
Envision 200 riders in one big group, curb-to-curb, all diving into that final corner just before the finish... --Like squeezing 10 lbs of potatoes into a 5 lb bag, somethin's gotta give! : D ---To win, u must be more than willing to sacrifice your bike!
AND u must be able to keep your bike in working condition all the time, no matter what (racing-training-racing-training...repeat), without breaking the bank.
So, RIDE a pro bike, if u can afford it --it's AMAZING! (and reserve it for dry conditions) ...but if u race, i suggest u race & train on decent, functional, affordable, MID-range equip... AND REALLY GO FOR THAT FINISH LINE!!!
Be safe & good luck!
Looking at an entry-level colnago (CLX) and the difference between the 105 and Ultegra is $550 extra dollars - this was an excellent video and I think you've answered my question - I was going with Ultegra but now I think I should save the $$$
105 is King for the amateur riders like myself, have had my 105 for over 5 years and never had any trouble. It is smooth and works really well. Ultegra is probably the most I would upgrade to as an amateur cyclist but I don't think I would ever have the need to upgrade to fully Ultegra groupset.
Agreed..105 and a quality set of carbons = the real sweet spot imo
105 is like Dura-Ace if they accidentally dropped the group set in a box I’d sand before leaving the factory. Maybe an exaggeration ;) To be clear, you do get what you pay for. Dura-Ace shifts night and day better than 105. I disagree that it’s not durable when compared to 105. I’d argue it’s more durable and requires less tuning over time. Ultegra is a good balance, offering nearly Dura-Ace shift quality when tuned properly at a significantly lower cost. If we’re talking DI2, hard to choose Dura-Ace over Ultegra. Way too much discussion about part replacement cost. As you say, maintain your bike and you’ll be thankful that you bought Ultegra over the long run. Not saying 105 is crap, it’s a good product. Ultegra and 600 before it have always been the sweet spot. You don’t know need to be a “racer”to appreciate the difference. An avid cyclist will be able to appreciate the product variations.
Fantastic informative video.. Respect mate.. you have made my decision to not bother in the future with more expensive group sets than my current 105.. cheers.
Great comparison video well done! I am currently using 105 R7000 groupset which is fantastic on a Bianchi Freccia Celeste. I was considering Ultegra for my second Titanium bike...after this video I shall stick to 105's 🙂🚴
Thank you buddie ... pretty well explained. Just buying my first road bike ... you helped me out. On my mountain bike I use XTR ... and it hurts so much (my purse) :) Thanks again and take care. Lukas from Czech Republic.
U have inspired me to bike around thank you so much bucko
My bike has Ultegra because that was the way it came from factory, no need to upgrade to Dura Ace, Ultegra is great!
It is all about fashion. As a former pro cyclist, i know that it is all about the "engine" that pushes the bike unless you are at the same top level. Amateurs cyclists, my suggestion is, loose body weight instead of spending too much for just few hundred grams lighter groupo! Cheers from Vietnam
A big reason why I'm tempted to get ultegra di2 is the electronic shifting. Also, the 105 hoods are too big and ultegra is great.
105 is fantastic for a mech group set. Otherwise just go with Ultegra DI2. Replace chain at first hint of stretch. Easy to check with a cheap Park Tool.
Good video for newbie like me. I don't regret buying my new bike with 105.
Im currently researching my next bike purchase. Had been looking at the Domane SL6 (with Ultegra) but after watching this Ive got to say I'll more likely go with the SL5 (with 105's) now.
Pretty much the same bike groupset aside but 700 GBP/900 USD cheaper
I upgraded Shimano 6800 to Dura Ace 9100 mechanical. Huuuge difference. But Dura Ace brakes calipers are light and finicky. Ultegra was more solid and trouble free. Ultegra 8000 is probably a lot closer to Dura Ace and seems like the extra grams for a bit of durability is worth the "downgrade".
I raced on 105 my whole career and it stood up very well. I guess Di2 would be another motive? Never tried it and wonder if it is worth it. I am now on GRX with no complaints
Great video and agree, majority of cyclists will be more than happy with 105 and even then they probably wont be able to tell the difference much or make any improvement unlike proper bike fitting and upgrading wheels can do.
I just found my dream bike frame (titanium) and since this will be my fun weekend bike for the next 5-10 years I've decided to splurge a little and go with ultegra/dura ace components. my weekday commuter bike will be tiagra/105 and happy with it.
I'm riding on ultegra and a carbon frame. The combination is very satisfactory. Acceleration is quick. Gear shifting is smooth and flawless. I tried 105. It was good. But after comparing with ultegra you will agree that 105 is not as smooth and efficient as ultegra. Dura ace is superb. But I will leave it to pro racers.
I was trying my brothers 105 bike AFTER buying my ultegra one. I was kind of disappointed wasting so much money. Ok, there is nothing wrong with it, but I ride just for fun.
The good thing is that I also did the wrong choice with my bike overall. I will sell it and get a new 105 one, thx for my new helmet 😉
Amazing video and really helpful 💯🙌🏻
I have all Ultegra with Dura Ace brakes, never complained. But you can feel the difference between Ultegra and 105 Shifters.
It's years later and I don't think di2 will ever trickle down to 105 for people who don't care about weight but do care about electronic shifting and want more durability that comes from not using exotic materials.
He says that Dura Ace is less durable than 105 or Ultegra. That hasn't always been the case. I suspect the move to ever increasing number of rear cluster ratios is behind this. I've stuck with Dura Ace since 1995 (8-speed) not just because its lighter and has better shifting but because I felt it was more durable too. I recently replaced my 11 speed Dura Ace rear derailleur with Ultegra simply as I didn't have the cash. Weight difference is 42grams. I can live with that. He is spot on about losing body weight. Over my 30+ years of riding my form was always best when I worried less about my equipment. I have 105 on my 2nd bike and the biggest difference is braking power and feel (alloy rims).
The truth is that the only significant quality differences between 105 and Ultegra was always chainring quality, hub bearings, brake pivots and jockey wheel bearings. Since most people are now buying discs and don't use the original Shimano hubs anyway, then 105 is a top performer with a little extra spent when stuff wears out. Dura-Ace pedals are the shizz though... and worth spending extra on because the bearings are better than anything else on the market and will outlast 2 or 3 sets of shifters and mech.
I have been riding for exactly 6 years now, I learned on a Colnago Super Replica with Campagnolo Nuovo Record (6-speed) with friction downtube shifters. One year later Tiagra 4400 9-speed with STI, since last year Dura Ace 7700 9-speed and recently Claris R2000 8-speed... but I'm now at the point where I want to really up my performance and 105 R7000 would be a dramatic progress for me and a good choice I guess.
I can't tell the difference in shifting between r7000 and r9000 groupsets but I'll experiment at my local keele/highway 7 Giant store. I figure a worthy upgrade from r7000 would be the r9000 class di2
What about 105 groupset with durace rear derailleur?
For me, a road bike is define there, in the back of the gears
I used to think Dura Ace is just posh 105 and Ultegra… until I needed to replace my FD after stripping the threads on it. My bad. FD-9100 uses stainless steel with intricate stamping that gives a real positive shifting. I tried buying a RD cage of a 9100 that swapped for a ceramic speed one bit had to return it after discovering that the R7000 one won’t fit the spindle on the cage. They’re incompatible. I held a 165mm R9100 crank just recently from the same seller and the heft is still there. I’ll get a R9100 brake for the intricate machining. I also sold my 11-28 CS-R9100 after 5 months to avoid losing value and downgraded to CS-8000. I would get a 11-25 CS-R9100 in the future and only use it when I join races or feel like improving my PB every once in a while. Titanium cogs look good and really feels light but is definitely a wallet buster.
i would say that if you stay in mechanical group sets then there is little need for more then 105 for most riders that are not racing. i would put the difference in cost into a slightly better frame then group set. When you go to hydraulic braking i think there is a massive difference between the 105 and the Ultegra. but the thing most missing in the 105 group set is the electronic shifting and that is what made me chose Ultega
Why does this vid makes so much sense to me? 😂 thanks for the vid, you discussed it all.
That's a valid point that you brought up about the 105 groupset. I was always wondering how most people, or maybe in your opinion, how do you rate the Ultegra in between 105 and Dura-Ace? Is the Ultegra closer to Dura-Ace than 105? Or right in the middle. Let's say that in a scale from 1 to 10, 105=1 and Dura-Ace=10. Where would you place the Ultegra in this scale?
Well said I totally agree with you. It's all in your head. Most people are just status symbol than using common sense. Like you mentioned unless they have a lot of money to burned go for Ultegra or Dura ace.
Ultegra, if you want Di2. But most people probably buy complete bikes instead of components and then the next level up from the 105 bike does not only consist of the Ultegra groupset but other features as well like a damped seat post for example. But maybe you should mention that you can interchange spare parts like if your bike came with Ultegra you can still get 105 parts as replacements for Ultegra like the chain ring or cassette.
All the weight difference comes in the crankset. Best value to get 105 but with ultegra crankset. IMO
I have many road bikes. Most are 105...I have had zero problems with any of them. I do have one Dura Ace bike. And yes...I do notice a difference...but it's not enough to justify the cost difference
Well done on this comparison.
Great review!
I've been on my Claris groupset for 5000km in and except for climbing steep hills, I've been enjoying it.
Maybe a couple of extra cassettes would be nice😊
Bro I've ridden a Sora groupset and now I have a 105 it's totally worth it die to how smooth the change of gear to how long you need to maintain each year:)
Great video, considered upgrading but was probably doing so for the wrong reasons. Thanks
I’m a 1x gravel grouch, but if I ever went full roadie I would be all over 105.
Shifting smoothness is more a function of cable tension than groupset level in the rear world. A 105 with a fresh cable is smoother than dura-ace with a worn cable. Tons of people are riding worn out bling parts.
True..... Still, worn out ultegra is better than worn out 105. Currently working on getting the parts for a 15 year old Ultegra 6600 overhaul.
Yep. Take care of your stuff. Clean, well-lubed chain is tops.
super video - seriously. I was just thinking of upgrading from 6700 and now I know that the path is to R7000.
One more thing: 6700 to R7000 or to... Di2 Ultegra (if there is no that much of difference between R7000 and R8000).
Would this be a BIG difference? No, I am NOT racing but I am riding a lot (10 000 km /year)
@@Pedaler yeap, especially that my current frame has no place for Di2 internally - thank you
@@Pedaler however I changed brakes to R8000 on my overall 6700 and the difference is easy to feel - dual SYMMETRIC pivot I think was the clue here
I go for 105 and ultegra di2 mix just because of the nice addictive clicks :D
buy a bike with 105, and put ultegra or dura ace shifters on it. thats where most of the diffrences are in terms of the componetes. the tolerances on the dura ace shifter is just tighter which gives most of that crispiness of the shift.
Perfect Ideas, thanks for your sharing.
Cheers :)
Awesome job ❤
Think I’m going 105 and disc on my new bike. Wanted ultegra but it’s hard to find ultegra and disc within my budget. Thanks for the great content !
What frameset did you chosed?
Currently riding both 105 and ultegra,r7000 and r8000,,cant tell any difference,im a 5ft7inch 67 kg rider,,fairly fit,,spend the money on wheels,,105 all the way,,that much so im selling my ultegra groupo after 6 months,,does not make you any faster,,only thing ultegra has is the option to go di2,,which costs more and still does not make you go faster
The 105 hoods are exactly the same dimension as the dura ace mechanical disc hoods. It’s not the hydraulics that makes the hoods bigger it’s the cables . They get slimmer when you go Di2. That’s the difference. Good breakdown though man
Di2… a reason for going Ultegra. Both my road and gravel bike are 105, but I confess to being fascinated by electronic shifting. Heck that gravel bike is 105 5800 and I can't convince myself to upgrade to 7000 because of the abuse it takes without a hiccup. But electronic shifting…
105 isn’t a cheap groupset, all three groupsets are the pinnacle of technology and expensive, the serious cycling fraternity probably has a somewhat skewed perspective. I’m just upgrading to 105 from my entry level Cannondale which has been running with a SORA groupset for years with zero issues. When students on crappy rusty bikes which haven’t seen any oil this side of the millennium stop overtaking me, I’ll consider upgrading to Ultegra!
I have all three group sets.
But it seems that I always go to the bike with the 105 first.
Great video , thank you
Why would that be, any technical or psychological reasons? Thanks for explaining a bit more
Excellent, you have just saved me ££££££ - well presented
But what about if a rider wants to focus on climbing. Would one groupset be better than the other
Very candid advice. 👍🏾
Very interesting information. Thanks for your expertise.