Colorado Cyclist is blowing the Ultrgra 9sp cranksets out for $89.99.
That's less expensive than its 105 sibling at some other retailers.

http://www.coloradocyclist.com/commo...79,14259,14266

That's roughly 50% off of prices I've found from other retailers. It's even less than the current Nashbar pricing with the 20% off coupon!

THat's a fairly average price that I've seen at Performance or Nashbar. FYI- there's virtually no difference between 105 and Ultegra except the keyless crank removal. Weights are identical.

Last time I looked, the chainrings are stamped on 105. They will wear faster that Ultegra's machined rings.
The finish is a little fancier on Ultegra. The arms and spider on 105 are cast, I believe Ultegra is forged.
Open to correction, however.

cheers,
TVphobic

you were right until this one...the 105 cranks are definitly not cast. they're forged, but I think they use a slightly different alloy. I dunno, they just came on my bike.

?? :rolleyes: ??
Not sure where you're looking but I just checked to make sure my facts were correct.

Prices for Shimano 9 speed FC 6500 Double crankset
Performancebike.com $163.99
Nashbar.com $163.95
Colorado Cyclist $89.99

Squeegy, you're right about very current prices. I was talking about prices perhaps 6 months ago. There have been some suspicious increases in components lately, such as with 9sp Ultegra STIs. A year ago around $150, now over $200.

Nashbar now has these 9 sp cranks for $89. (and some other 9sp items on sale)
If you use the current coupons, its an additional 10 or 20% off depending on which coupon you use.

Jeepers... that deal is really making my wallet itch... my 105 cranks are the only thing (except the R540 pedals) not Ultegra on my new bike. Even with the deal... I'm still having a hard time justifying it...

If you buy an ultegra crank to upgrade your perfectly fine 105 crank. The marketing guys have done their job well.

Agreed. I have one of each new in box. Hardly 10 cents worth of difference if you ask me. The Ultegra has a little more finesse looks wise but functionally it's not any different in real world applications.

As an addendum, I stopped by my local Performance bike shop last night and they're clearing out their older Ultegra cranksets. Paid $90.00 for a brand, spanking new Ultegra 6500 double Octalink crankset! Even with sales tax here in Maryland, it was cheaper than sending away to Colorado Cyclist for the same. Just another avenue to pursue if anyone's interested.