Is this a decent cyclocross setup?

Question

I've been looking to buy a complete cyclocross bike and coming from a SS background, I'm unsure of what to look for in terms of the drivetrain.

Friends have recommended to go with at least a Shimano 105, or even Ultegra (if it fits my budget), but Sora isn't to great.

With that being said..

I found a complete with an XT Group and SL-R660 levers. How do these compare to the 105 or the Ultegra?

Answer 1

if you will be a begginer start with the xt. the flat bar is easier to use, more comfortable and the xt is better than a 105, even though is not as fair comparison since they are different components

bikingthings

Answer 2

Hey, we're psyched you're getting into the sport.  Have you considered SS for cyclocross?  it's an ideal sport for a ss, in our humble opinions.

But geared bikes are faster. Your friends didn't mention Tiagra - one step above Sora. That is a decent entry-level parts group.  We reviewed a Schwinn and Redline Conquest that have Tiagra and found the parts to be decent.

Deore XT is similar to Ultegra but is a mountain group.  For 'cross, you'll want a double or single ring setup. The deore parts may be more than you need.  The crankset for XT is a triple, and the front derailleur and rear derailleur are designed to accomodate that wide gear range. You can make the rear work okay with a double, esp if you have a wide range rear cassette.  

The brake levers & shifters are designed for a flat bar - not a bad thing for 'cross but just not what most folks use.  If you like the flat bar and aren't used to a drop bar, we agree with the above poster - then the XT shifters will do great.

Note, the XT brakes will work fine with those shifters, but if you go to drop bars and road brake levers, you'll need converters to make the v-brakes work well.

It probably all comes down to whether you want to go flat bar and think you'll stay with that setup.

Hope that helps a bit!

If you're looking at complete bikes, you'll get a better deal if you just buy a complete bike instead of a parts kit and then a frame.  Most brands have a good entry-level model.

good luck.

if you want more opinions, post your question here: http://cxmagazine.com/forums

Answer 3

Not sure what you mean by an SS background.

Shimano groups that are worth your time for racing are:

105 & LX (entry level); Ultegra & XT (enthusiast); Dura Ace & XTR (Pro). The biggest differences are brakes, shifters, and gearing. Road groups have higher gearing. Mountain groups have lower gearing. If you ride rough terrain, the mountain gearing might play to your advantage.

XT is a very high quality and durable mountain group on par with Ultegra. Those shifters are usually used on flat bars, not drops typically found on cross bikes. If you like flat bars, and many people do ride flats in cyclocross, then this should be a very good setup for you if the bike fits properly.

Note that the brake/shifter combos of 105 or Ultegra don't pull enough cable to operate 'V' brakes. You would have to get something called the "travel agent". It takes up the slack.

Sora  is not acceptable for racing. The steel that makes it good for entry level riders abuse makes it too flexible for racing use. No fun hammering up a hill and having the bike shift up a gear.

I have a 105 27 speed system on my touring bike. It has worked very well. Ultegra is a little lighter and a little more durable.