is xtr more reliable or just lightweight bling?

scottgeniusltd2005
scottgeniusltd2005 Posts: 575
edited January 2009 in Commuting chat
hi guys,

my bike currently has xtr everything, had it on when i bought it. my drivetrain is getting worn and will probably need replacing by summer. is xtr worth the extra money with regards to reliability and longevity? i've never had a single problem ever, apart from having to put a 20 thou shim behind cassette, but this was down to hope hub wearing not the cassette. if i replace with xt for example, would i notice the difference except in the pocket department?

cheers

shaun
Cotic Soul rider.

Comments

  • ride_whenever
    ride_whenever Posts: 13,279
    If it is worn you should only need to replace cassette and chain, possibly chainrings and jockey wheels as well. Obviously cables are best to be replaced after winter.

    Cassette: xt (the xtr one has some Ti parts and is not worth the premium IMHO)
    Chain: KMC X9 SL
    Chainrings: aftermarket ones are mcuh better than shimano offerings. I like the middleburn hardcoat slickshift ones
    Jockey Wheels: KCNC make some really nce ceramic bearinged ones.
    Neeermad
    Carbon 456
    456 lefty
    Pompino
    White Inbred
  • Rich158
    Rich158 Posts: 2,348
    imho the difference in performance is barely noticeable and doesn't justify the extra price. I've discussed this often with my LBS (every time I need a new rear mech) and they are of the opinion that XTR is a lightweight race orientated groupset and therefore isn't as durable as XT. They have the option to run anything and nearly always choose to run XT over XTR.
    pain is temporary, the glory of beating your mates to the top of the hill lasts forever.....................

    Revised FCN - 2
  • JonEdwards
    JonEdwards Posts: 452
    XTR is bling. Especially for commuting.

    XT works 95% as well for a few grammes more and a lot (50%?) less £.

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