Components: Shimano Ultegra vs. SRAM Rival

[TxDoc]

Maybe my Centaur wasn't set up right, but I just didn't like it. I'm used to quick precise shift without any loss or dead time. Centaur was bit sloppy. Chorus was quick positive feel and definitly race worthy. Centaur is not.

I think proper tuning has a lot to do with it. If they are correctly set up, there is no difference in shifting between centaur, chorus, veloce, record, or even the old mirage. The only difference is material and weight. Now, if you say xenon - yes some of those tended to be sloppy but it was mostly in the rear, and they could be adjusted right in the end, it was just more cumbersom for whatever reason. But between centaur and chorus you should not have seen any differences in shifting. I guess whoever tuned your bikeat the time did not take the time to do that properly, sorry...

[VeloVT]

I think proper tuning has a lot to do with it. If they are correctly set up, there is no difference in shifting between centaur, chorus, veloce, record, or even the old mirage. The only difference is material and weight.

Really?

Now, I have never ridden Campy, but this just sounds implausible to me. For instance, I have a 105 bike and an Ultegra bike, and there is very definitely a difference between the two, even when both are well tuned. The Ultegra is smoother, quicker, more precise, has a lighter tough, and holds a tune better. I have done extended test-rides on Dura Ace and the difference between well-tuned Ultegra and Dura Ace is pretty small -- but there's a noticeable difference between 105 and Ultegra. I would be really surprised if there were no difference at all in the Campy line from entry-level up to Record.

[Andrea]

I've ridden Ultegra and Rival, and I definitely like SRAM's shifting better. The quality of both are comparable, so you should just go with whichever one you like better. I love the solid brake on SRAM groups vs. the "sweeping" brake lever that Shimano uses. I ride SRAM red now, and I never see myself switching brands... when I build a CX bike, it's going to have Rival.

[lunacycles]

Rival is considered SRAM's "best value." That being said, I have heard some folks have lots of "noise" issues with the drivetrain, and that most recommend using a Shimano chain and cassette to alleviate it.

WRT Campy cassettes: you can still get a 13-28 in the 10-speed version if you hunt around a bit. I just got one for a customer of mine, who by the way is running Campy Centaur with a 165mm SRAM Red crank.

[Miranda]

I'd have to say that I'm a Shimano girl all the way...

I test rode I think it was Rival. I didn't like it. I thought it was rough. Loud. And the reach was uncomfortable. Yes... it's lighter. And I think it was less $. Strong selling points. But not enough for me.

Our mtbs have Shimano lower end. It's a bit rough. But, it's mtb. Gets beat to he$$ and back.

My old roadie has Shimano 105. Comfy reach. Performed steady.

My new ride has Ultegra SL. Bit smoother than the 105. I have the R700 short reach shifters. They are great. No worries on reach what-so-ever.

FWIW.

[smilingcat]

Rival is considered SRAM's "best value." That being said, I have heard some folks have lots of "noise" issues with the drivetrain, and that most recommend using a Shimano chain and cassette to alleviate it.

WRT Campy cassettes: you can still get a 13-28 in the 10-speed version if you hunt around a bit. I just got one for a customer of mine, who by the way is running Campy Centaur with a 165mm SRAM Red crank.

Oh thank you for reminding me. I use FORCE for my front, rear deraillure and FORCE brifters. Cranks and clusters are also FORCE. Chain however, I use Ultegra. SRAM FORCE chain just doesn't hold up. One of the pins in the chain worked its way out. Had only 2000miles on the road. Pretty sad. but otherwise, I'm pretty happy with my FORCE.

[Loraura]

For those with small hands and have tried different levels of campy, shimano, and SRAM brifters, which seemed to fit best?

[Ana]

I found a killer deal from http://www.lickbike.com so I decided on Campy I think this might be the last [road] bike I ever buy! I know you all are scoffing but it's true! Unless I hate it.....but I'm trying not to think about that...

Yay! I had the parts sent and my bike will be built over the next week or so!

I'm so excited!

Thank you for all of your input. Sorry I negated all the discussion and went with Campy

[indysteel]

Really?

Now, I have never ridden Campy, but this just sounds implausible to me. For instance, I have a 105 bike and an Ultegra bike, and there is very definitely a difference between the two, even when both are well tuned. The Ultegra is smoother, quicker, more precise, has a lighter tough, and holds a tune better. I have done extended test-rides on Dura Ace and the difference between well-tuned Ultegra and Dura Ace is pretty small -- but there's a noticeable difference between 105 and Ultegra. I would be really surprised if there were no difference at all in the Campy line from entry-level up to Record.

I can't speak to the difference between Mirage and Record, but I will say that my Centaur performs no better than the Mirage/Veloce mix I had on my Bianchi. I honestly don't know how true it is, but I've repeatedly heard that Campy is really good about allowing their technology to trickle down to their lower groupsets. Assuming you like Campy's technology, that means that you don't really need to spring for Chorus or Record to get a good group. I think Centaur is a great deal for that reason.