Shimano 105 vs ultegra components

slog

I'm looking to buy my first proper road bike after commuting on a hybrid this summer. I think I want a carbon frame, and I think I want a "triple". Would I notice any great improvement if I was to pay the extra for Ultegra components, bearing in mind I ride a hybrid now ?

Russ68

I have Ultegra on my Cayo, and Tiagra on my flat bar Marin, both seem excellent so I imagine the 105 which sits between them is good too! That said I was keen on the Ultegra for the pimp value and I managed to get a full carbon Cayo with Ultegra for £999 (2008), they're considerably more expensive now. Going for full carbon you can upgrade components later and end up with a really special bike. I went for a compact double, most serious roadies seem to have doubles rather than triples, but the triple will give more flexibility

inseine

You wont notice any difference, but make sure you get the latest generation since there's quite a bit of last gen stuff around at good prices but the new (hidden cables) Shimano is better.

gavintc

i have 105 on my commute bike and Ultegra on the good bike. If I am really honest with myself, there is not a great deal of difference between the two. The Ultegra is a tad smoother in the changes - but I could equally argue it is because the 105 gets hammered on the commute. So, my recommendation - save the money for better wheels. My final comment is probably controversial; are you really sure you want a triple? There are strong arguments for and against compact and triple. Personally, I like the compact, but I know many argue that the triple is more flexible. i think you should at least rehearse the arguments in your head to make sure you are making an informed decision.

briantrumpet

Having only just got a bike with Ultegra I can't comment on the finer points of difference between that and Tiagra, but the Tiagra works fine, and that's a level below 105, so am sure 105 would do the job for you. Regarding the triple - personally, I wouldn't ever get onto the small ring, as the lowest gear on a compact is low enough for me (even on Dartmoor's hills), though your choice might depend on your estimation of your climbing ability.

Butterd2

I have 105 on my Road bike and have not had any issues at all with it, I do not see how it could actually work better and given my size any weight saving is really irrelevant.

I also have a triple.

90% of the time I just run with the 40/52 rings like any normal bike with a nice tight cassette 12-25 which means I always have exactly the ratio I want.

The remaining 10% is spent in the Alps/Pyrenees which is the only time I drop to the Granny ring. You try the Marie Blanque with a compact (34-25) and you'll find it tough, but a triple (26-25) makes it almost bearable!

As already pointed out there are arguments each way, make the decision on what you actually need for what you intend to do, do not let your decision by swayed by someone else's snobbery/opinion. (opinions are like ar$eholes - everyone's got one)

dmch2

I'd say get the triple. I've just done my first ride where I didn't use the granny ring but I didn't go on any big hills, I wasn't pushing my distance limits and it's taken a few months of effort.

You could get a compact but then there's a big gap between the two rings so you may as well get a triple and make life easier (if you're knackered and hit a big hill) and nicer (better shift between rings)

kingrollo

All depends how much extra it costs - it cost me an extra £90 - to spec my bike with Ultegra - so I did it - I wouldn't have paid much more though.

tigerben

Save the cash and get the 5700 version of 105.

I have full 5700 group on my everyday bike and full Ultegra on my Summer bike - the differences in shifting / braking is minimal and i am not a good enough rider for the weight differential to matter.

On my Summer bike I opted for Ultegra because at the time then version of 105 had the old hoods/ ugly cable routing. Had 5700 been available then I would have gone for 105 as well.

MattC59

the latest 105 is apparently VERY good. I've got last years Ultegra, which is also superb.

Regarding the triple ring question; I have a triple on my road bike and I've used the granny ring perhaps once or twice. That said, on the occasions I've used it, I needed it and was glad it was there !!!

Triples are like condoms, it's better to have one and not need it, than not have one and need it !

If you're not a weight weenie, go for the triple.

markos1963

I would say go for Ultegra in a triple. I have 105 and its ok but have been upgrading to Ultegra as parts wear out. Ultegra is much smoother on changes and the slight weight saving can be used for you to have a triple setup without paying for it performance wise.
I have a compact on mine but tbh I don't like the big jump between the rings as I can't cruise on the flat on the small ring, it's just not long enough for 21mph cruising. 53/39 rings will be fitted for next season.

slog

Thanks guys, I believe the fog is actually starting to lift I think I'm looking for a carbon framed triple with the 5700 version of 105 or ultegra if it's not too much more. Chri$t, I ALMOST sounded like I knew what I was talking about then for a minute! Now I just need to choose a make and model; what could be easier..........

twotyred

I have 2008 105 on one bike and 2010 Ultegra on the other and there is no difference in the shifting. Ultegra is just a bit lighter and more "bling"

Just get a compact double with a 11/12-27/28 cassette. It has practically the same range as a triple and you won't be continuously swapping front rings.

Green Lantern

I am buying a Trek 2.3 bike. The 2012 has 105 group with the exception of the crank which is a lower grade Shimano crank. I decided to have the bike store upgrade two things on the bike before I buy it. The crank and rear derailer. I wanted a stiffer crank that would be close to my old Campy Super Record. I confirmed with Shimano that the Ultegra crank is not only lighter but stiffer than the 105. With the rear derail being used so much and there only being like a $30 difference it was a no brainer to get the Ultegra over the 105 as well. I am sure the 105 shifts just fine but with higher quality springs and pivots, there will be more of an instant shifting that is closer to Dura Ace equipment.

If your getting a new bike, most of the time the store will only charge you for the difference in price if you want to upgrade some components.

I have to say I a a little disapointed with Trek as I found older 2.3's had the Ultegra rear derail in the back. They seem to be staying with a price point and reduce a part here and there every year.

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/cms/a ... cleid=2151