Originally Posted by 3dsteve
im thinking of upgrading i now have 9 speed group in 105 should i go to a 10 speed group and if so what are the advantages and shoud i go with ultagra or dura ace , im not a racer just an avid rec rider ,we have lots of mnts. here to climb and lots of group rides . thanks for any info in advance .
A year or so ago I built up a Lemond Victoire with the then new Ultegra 10 speed group.
My impressions:
The shifters are nicer, both ergonomically and functionally. There is more surface area in the hoods, so hand positioning is more comfortable. Also the throw on the shifter is shorter, so shifting overall is quicker.
The new external bb cranksets are a nice upgrade too. Larger bearings will be smoother and wil llast longer, plus the design lends itself to lighter weight and more stiffness.
As stated, the reason for 10, over 9 is not higher or lower gears. It is about a smoother progression through the cluster.
I have one bike with an Ultegra drivetrain and one with a DA drivetrain (both have DA cranks) I think you'd be perfectly happy with the Ultegra.
Barely related side story:
Last summer I had dinner with a group of shimano engineers. Humble by nature, it wasn't until late in the meal (and drinks) that Hisayuki, the fellow sitting next to me, let slip that he was the lead engineer for the ultegra 10 grouppo. I thanked him for his efforts.