Bicycle Mechanics - Observation, cheap cables are not a bargain.

Or maybe just buy the cables that your shifter manufacturer sells. I recently built a bike from a new frame up for the first time. 105 STI 10 speed shifting and derailleurs. I bought some inexpensive European brand "Teflon" coated cable kits. The reviews seemed OK. I had very intermittent "auto shifting" problems and the brake pull just didn't seem that smooth. Shifting was ok but not as crisp as my 9sp Sora that I had before. After a month I bought a full set of Dura Ace cables for just over $30 shipped. Presto!! No auto-shifting and perfect up and down shifting and the sale price was about what I paid for the not so good ones.

cost does not equal price

I've had excellent service with Shimano, Campy and Jagwire branded cables. It wouldn't surprise me if Jagwire private lableled for Shimano.

BTW, pay the slight extra and get stainless steel cables. They are smoother and more durable than plain galvanized and, obviously, won't rust if (when) they get wet.

Good observation on quality and reminder for the rest of us. I'm in the process of changing cables on two bikes, so the message is well received.

I just did Jagwire on my bike, I love em, but I had crap before :) So, while Jagwire beats the heck out of crap, I'm not sure how much better or worse it is than Dura-ace. I do know the Jagwire fanboys will make fun of you Dura-ace peeps all day long, but that's the typical fanboy crowd. I like mine, and won't change brands from here on unless I have reason to.

Joe

I don't think cables beget the "Campy vs. Shimano" level of debate but. as noted above, I've had excellent results with both Jagwire and Shimano cables so, from a quality standpoint, I have no real preference.

Jagwire does make double ended (Shimano and Campy) shift cables which simplify my inventory since I can use the same cable for any of my bikes and just cut off the unneeded end. This alone makes them the preferred supplier.

cost does not equal price

Gem of the day. It is good to always remember this in all undertakings, whether paying for bike cables or hookers:)

By the way, Jagwire also is the OEM for REI brand cables. I was told this my a mastertech at REI.

Right you are. "Cheap" is almost never the lowest cost item or service in my experience.