Bicycle Mechanics - Shimano Compatability?

Rookie questions, but this is how we learn...
I am putting together a road bike for my wife to ride on weekends and century rides. While I want her on a great ride, It does not need to be "race light". I would prefer to use Shimano components as they are easily to obtain and seem to be a good quality, based on my limited, very limited exposure. So here the question. Based on my desire to use a 10 speed / double, can I mix the use of 105, Ultegra, and Dura Ace?
What are the benefits of using Ultegra and Dura Ace over 105, weight only?

Thanks in advance for the assistance!

You can pretty much mix and match any component within these groups at will.

Ultegra and to a greater extent Dura Ace are slightly lighter, better finished and may have better bearings than 105 which lead to better durability. However, the performance and quality differences are minor for most riders. The cost differences can be large and 105 is really a good group.

If you're not going Campy might as well stick w/105.

Based on my desire to use a 10 speed / double, can I mix the use of 105, Ultegra, and Dura Ace?
What are the benefits of using Ultegra and Dura Ace over 105, weight only?


Yes

Yes

BTW, I think the most important part of buying a bike is fit. Many women lose interest in riding because their bikes just don't fit.

Most excellent point - FIT. Spend the time getting your wife fit properly. Look at woman specific saddles and cycling shorts. These will make your rides together much more pleasant for BOTH of you (if she's anything like my wife) as she will be as comfortable as possible and pleased as punch for you making sure everything was just right.

BTW - 105 is a good value group and you can always upgrade your bike so you have a better bike than her if your wife starts kicking your ass!

Based on my desire to use a 10 speed / double,
Why a double? If she's not into cycling (yet) she may - will - appreciate the ability to kick down on climbs.

Why a double? If she's not into cycling (yet) she may - will - appreciate the ability to kick down on climbs.


Yeah..., but don't call it a granny ring and the like. You can put it to her as "Better tools for the job". And also, the fit as discussed earlier is EXTREMELY important for new women, if they are starting later in life. Be careful when she's trying on the kit... it will really show her where (if anywhere) she needs the most work), and you need to keep your mouth shut when she comments on this. Trust me that is a SLIPPERY SLOPE.

This is not how the conversation should go when tries on her spandex:

"Honey, does this make me look fat?"

"Babe, everything makes you look fat."

You do not need to supply additional motivation. :D

"Honey, does this make me look fat?" :D

There are questions for which there is NO right answer.

Thank you all for the excellent feedback. She's been riding, longer than I... I have been sucking down beers while she's been out getting in shape. If any one needs a granny ring, it's me... Anyhow, she's been riding a hybrid, a Giant FCR for the past 8 to 10 months, Prior to that she rode a Giant Mountain bike, knobies and all. Even rode it in the MS Bike ride 150 miles in 2 days. I just purchased her a Orbea Carbon / Alum frame and now starting to look at the goodies to add to it! I greatly appreciate all of the imput, especially the humor... great stuff! Thanks

I've become a big fan of mixing groups to get the best value. I just built up a tri bike with DA, Ultegra, 105, and RSX (!).