Components: Shimano Ultegra vs. SRAM Rival

[Ana]

Keep in mind that Campu does not offer an 11-28 cassette. I like Campy a lot. I have 2006 Veloce on my Bianchi and 2009 Centaur on my Moots. I prefer the older Veloce. The new hood design just doesn't work as well for me and the shifting just isn't as "like buttah" as it was with the Veloce.

Yes, after doing a little bit of research I discovered that my cassette options would be narrowed if I choose Campy. I would totally do it if they had an 11-28 (or something remotely close because I can't give up my smallest gears). Campy must figure you're a stronger rider than I am

I just got my new bike, a Trek Madone and had to choose between the SRAM the Shimano. I really did not like the "clicky" noises that the SRAM makes. I asked my LBS why it does that and he said to be "different" as Shimano is known for being very SMOOTH AND QUIET!!! Anyway, I went with the Shimano because I wanted as SILENT as I could get. Also, I rode with some women that had SCRAM and I HATED the noises that the gear shifters made!!!! Sounded like it needed some finessing but that was "normal" for the SRAM!!!

I guess I am not sure how I would feel about the clicking. I probably would have liked it when I was first starting out so I wouldn't have had to look down all the time It seems as though it might be a slight disadvantage in a race if all the other riders can hear you shifting gears.

I can feel the shifting in my 105 right now fine. I wonder why it has to make a sound if the shifting is obvious to the touch...

I think I will defer this decision until next week...maybe I can hop on some bikes in the meantime...

I guess if I do end up with SRAM Rival and hate it, I can always swap components with the 105 on my current bike (which would mean additional cost in labor and more time...)

[skinimini]

I'm not as knowledgeable as you guys and am really just learning about all of these components. I have SRAM Rival on my Cannondale Synapse and have had a difficult time adjusting to the front derailleur shifting mechanism. Lots of clinking and clanking when downshifting from large to small, and sometimes not engaging the smaller chainwheel at all. I have been very careful about backing off pedal pressure when making changes.

After the 5th time to LBS for adjustments, the head bike mechanic stated that I had been the fourth woman in the past few months to have difficulty with the front derailleur. The other three women switched to Shimano 105. I have small hands and he thinks that could be the difficulty. He offered to switch (upgrade?) to Ultegra when the new components come in. I don't know how I feel about switching until I really give the SRAM a chance. But, then I don't want to feel continually frustrated with shifting difficulties. Decisions, Decisions