Shimano 105 vs. ultegra?

Question

I am looking to buy a new groupset for my road bike and was wondering whether it is worth splashing out a bit of extra cash and getting the Shimano Ultegra or getting the cheaper 105. Is there any noticeable difference between the two, other than looks?

Cheers

Answer 1

Ultegra SL is a lot lighter than 105 and in the darker colour it looks the business.  

Answer 2

105 and Ultegra are both great sets of equipment.  Ultegra is somewhat lighter, and perhaps, somewhat more aesthetically pleasing.  105 is somewhat less expensive.  So, you pays your money and you takes your chances...

I'd like to give you two things to think about, though.

First, how good are your wheels?  It is widely acknowledged that reducing rotational mass has three times the effect on performance of reducing fixed mass.  If you have heavy, low-end wheels you should put your money into a better wheel set before upgrading your component group.

Secondly, a wholesale upgrade of components is very expensive.  Generally, your weight savings and performance gains are going to be pretty marginal, especially for the cash outlay.  You should compare the cost of upgrading your bike (at retail prices) to buying a new bike with the gear you want.  It may seem counter-intuitive, but the most cost effective way to get the level of components you want on a bike is to buy a bike with that level of components.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

i would just go with ultegra for the rear de-railer, then go with 105's on everything else, since you will be shifting the rear gears way more than the front sprockets

Answer 4

One of the guys I ride with has 105 and it works well and reliably. He's never had a problem under all kinds of conditions. What would you do with the money that you've saved by buying 105 instead of Ultegra? If that difference enables you to get a better set of wheels or some other important upgrade, then do it.

HTH

Answer 5

I agree with everyone above.  I've ridden a few series of both over the years and today's 105 is pretty dang sweet.  If you were to change any one thing about the 105 group, it'd be to get a lighter cassette, although the 105 is pretty decent as is.    Sram Rival is something you should definitely consider as well.

Saving money and getting great wheels is the best advice anyone could have given you, too!  The few grams of weight savings in components is *nothing* compared to how lighter wheels will affect your ride.  Light is nice, just focus in the right spots.    :o)

Answer 6

Ultegra is a little bit more expensive, but not alot more expensive.

Tests have been done between 105, ultegra and the old durace and it was proven that the ultegra cranks were the strongest.

Ultegra is also newer and is easier to get parts for.

Answer 7

there is a little weight difference, and ultegra is just a bit crisper in shifting, but i know many racers including myself that use 105.  105 works well, and it is cheaper.  let's face it, if you ride hard, sooner or later you are going to take a spill and things are going to get damaged.  there is a growing trend in the amature races toward 105 because you can replace damaged parts much, much cheaper.

Answer 8

go with the 105s and upgrade your wheels..

Answer 9

I have Ultegra stuff now and used several different 105 setups. I find little difference between the two in function and a slight weight saving on the group. I used the same 105 group on a bike for 10 years with little wear (aside from chain rings and cassette and chain) and little degredation in performance.

A direct answer: no noticeable difference.

Answer 10

I'm a Dura Ace and Campy Record guy, but then I'm an old guy with money who can afford to splurge on his bikes.

There used to be a lot more difference between the 105 and Ultegra groups than there is now.  Other than very slight weight differences, and a little more polishing in the tight places, the 105 and Ultegra groups are now essentially the same.  I have 105 on my travel bike and Ultegra on my cyclocross bike and can't tell a bit of difference.

You'll be perfectly happy with the 105.  It may be the best road equipment for the dollar available today.  Don't worry about what the snobs say.  I'm hosting a ride tonight and the guy who will finish last will be riding a Ridley with a SRAM Red group.  The motor is what matters the most, and that's you.

And I agree with the advice that you put the extra money in your wheels.  Rotating weight is the most significant weight on your bike, especially for acceleration.