Why is Specialized changing their components?

[Jo-n-NY]

I am not 100% sure, but I think the new components, including the 105 are now 10 speed instead of 9. So that is an upgrade in itself. If I am not correct, someone please correct me.

JoAnn

[DeniseGoldberg]

I believe that it is a function of cost. Jo is right, the newer groups have moved up to 10 speed, and while I haven't checked the cost of the groups, I wouldn't be surprised at all if the manufacturers have changed their standard components because of the cost. Just out of curiosity, I checked online for prices for cassettes for the different Shimano road groups - since that is something that needs to be replaced often (although if you replace your chain before it gets to the replacement stretch sometimes you don't need to replace the cassette...). Anyhow, I found prices at $28 for a Shimano 105 cassette, $73 for Ultegra, and $162 for Dura-Ace. Obviously you can shop around, but I think you are still going to find that type of price difference between the groups.

I remember the last time I bought a non-custom bike having the LBS switch the components so that they were all the higher group. It was long enough ago that it was before Ultegra came out, but the bike had the equivalent of Ultegra front and 105 rear. I upgraded the rear. And I never got a reasonable explanation from the LBS about why the bikes were built with mixed level components.

The component groups really are different though. They are often made of different materials, and the more expensive groups are generally lighter.

--- Denise

[ladyfish]

I knew you ladies would have some answers for me! I didn't realize that the 105's had gone to 10 speed. I want to have as much knowledge and information as possible so I can make the best choice based on fit and function!!!

Thanks!
Cathy