When it comes to bike components, the groupset goes a long way towards the overall performance of the bike. As bikes climb in price, the groupset will get lighter, crisper, and more high-tech (electronic shifting anyone?). Before we get too deep into this, let’s talk about what a groupset is. A groupset is generally defined as “any mechanical or electronic parts that are involved in braking, changing gear, or the running of the drivetrain. That means the shifters, brake levers, front and rear brake calipers, front and rear derailleurs, crankset, bottom bracket, chain, and cassette,” according to Cycling Weekly. Now let’s cover the Shimano Groupset Hierarchy for Road Bikes from least expensive to most expensive.
Shimano Claris
The CLARIS group is developed completely to cover a very broad range of use. It will equip fitness bikes, touring bikes or even turn road bikes into genuine racers for entry-level road races. CLARIS ensures easy-to-operate, accurate and light-action shifting with SHIMANO 8-speed index system, powerful brakes, and smoothly rotating hubs. Durable and low maintenance quality 8-speed drivetrain gives you the optimal range of gears for on-road cycling. The simple and intuitive Dual Control Lever offers comfortable riding.
Shimano Sora
The new SORA is the most attractive and robust 9-speed component ever. SORA is pitched towards sports/fitness cyclists with a stylish and clean design. Now with technology adopted from higher level groupsets, both new starters and enthusiasts will feel comfortable sport riding with the features that 9-speed SORA R3000 introduces.
Shimano Tiagra
New 10-speed TIAGRA provides serious entry-level riding performance with cascaded technology from top-tier lines. It also features more intuitive control for shifting, a new 10-speed cable pitch for wider frame compatibility, upgraded with cascaded technology from DURA-ACE, and a 30% increase in brake power (same level as BR-5700).
Shimano 105
Shimano 105 will empower more riders than ever before to embrace the sport of road cycling. It will become the supportive 11-speed groupset that beginner riders choose to help them train for, and ride in more serious races.
By combining trickle-down technology with greater accessibility, Shimano 105 will continue to motivate and inspire more riders than ever to go after greater challenges.
Shimano Ultegra
The ULTEGRA R8000 series is “pro-proven” as it is a direct trickle down from DURA-ACE groupset. As road bike component, the stress-free operation is one of the most important feature to lead all day riding comfort with braking and shifting. The next step up from the Ultegra R8000 is the R8050, otherwise known as Di2 (Digital Intergrated Inteligence).
Shimano Dura-Ace
System engineering at its peak. Each of the components magnifies the qualities of the others for an unparalleled level of performance. Optimizing input to maximize output. That’s how it achieves supremacy.
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