What's the Difference Between SRAM and Shimano?

Rich Hcp
Rich Hcp Posts: 1,355
edited May 2008 in MTB beginners
SRAM X5 and Shimano LX?

Except price!

I need a new bike and am looking at either a Rockhopper Disco or Disc comp

OR

Orange G2 or G3

I'm spending no more than £750, I'm not hardcore but do a lot of bridleways and trails

I just don't want to spend £750 when with £600 I'll notice little difference.

I want something lightweight, which means the P7 is out of budget and weight!

Any help is appreciated
Richard

Giving it Large

Comments

  • NikB
    NikB Posts: 243
    On many bikes there is a no cost option between SRAM or Shimano. Both are very good. If you do a lot of riding in muddy conditions then SRAM maybe a better option as it has a 1:1 cable ratio which means that it will tend to keep shifting well whereas Shimano uses a cam I think so the shifting force is not as strong - probably not the best explanation ever but I'm sure you could search for more info if you need it. Some people think the SRAM mechs are a bit weaker than the Shimano equivalent too.
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  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    but, on the other hand, some of us ride in very muddy places, and shimano works fine for us.
  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    the biggest difference is how you operate them.

    which do you like?
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
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  • BlackSpur
    BlackSpur Posts: 4,228
    Far more important when you are choosing a new bike will be how it feels when you sit on it, so go to a bike shop that stocks the bikes and try them out!
    "Melancholy is incompatible with bicycling." ~James E. Starrs
  • Rich Hcp
    Rich Hcp Posts: 1,355
    Only ever used Shimano before, I'll have to have a go and see which I prefer.

    I was hoping for a simple answer, no chance! :lol:
    Richard

    Giving it Large
  • Rich Hcp
    Rich Hcp Posts: 1,355
    BlackSpur wrote:
    Far more important when you are choosing a new bike will be how it feels when you sit on it, so go to a bike shop that stocks the bikes and try them out!

    Yep, doing that in about an hour!
    Richard

    Giving it Large
  • BlackSpur
    BlackSpur Posts: 4,228
    In which case, you may find you prefer the "feel" of Shimano over SRAM, or vice versa.
    "Melancholy is incompatible with bicycling." ~James E. Starrs
  • supersonic
    supersonic Posts: 82,708
    Shimano tends to feel smoother and slicker, SRAM more 'positive' and direct.
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  • Rich Hcp
    Rich Hcp Posts: 1,355
    Right.

    Been to the shop and it will be an Orange G3 8)

    I love the form and the function and the fact that not many people have them

    Thanks for the help 8)
    Richard

    Giving it Large
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    coolies, dont forget, pics or it didnt happen 8)
  • Rich Hcp
    Rich Hcp Posts: 1,355
    No prob, can't wait for the CTW voucher, then I can order it 8)
    Richard

    Giving it Large
  • KonaMike
    KonaMike Posts: 805
    Nice choice !

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