Shimano groupsets

Weight goes down & quality goes up - to get a good idea - look at Dura Ace Pedals compared to the rest of the Shimano line - look at the bearings and the fit and you see the details...

I have mix of Ultegra & DuraAce & anothe bike with 105 - there's a definite difference. Some things - like a cassette - are mayve a bit more durable as Ultegra [not too light & slightly more fragile] - a lot of pro teams - like CSC run ultegra cassettes for this reason. I also have FSA cranks - whick rock! 🙂

Personally, the difference to me was the smoothnes between the groups. Ultegra is a bit smoother than 105 and Dura Ace the smoothest of all. Also, the number of carttridge bearing goes up in each succesive group. As for value, I see nothing wrong with running 105. I run 105 with an Ultegra RD, a Truvativ crank, and a SRAM cassette. The cassette is the only non-smooth component. Not as smooth as Ultegra, and now where near Dura Ace, but it does its job very well.

I'll assume that you currently have a 9 speed group.

With the move to ten speed you'll notice a difference right away. Besides weight the biggest difference is in the shifters. You can run different levels of derailleurs (some bikes in the mid-range mix derailleurs to save a few bucks). Its the shifters that make a huge difference. If you're racing the bike spending the bucks for a better group with better shifters is a good idea. If you're riding and commuting a 105 group is fine.

cw2864 said:

I'm looking at getting a new road bike and would like some guidance on the best Shimano groupset considering value for money. I currently have Shimano 105 but most people with Ultegra and above swear there is a big difference. What are the main differences (besides cost and quality) between the different types, including Dura Ace? Are there different gear ratios or more gears? Better shifters?