Originally Posted by D-Man
At the suggestion of a reply I got from an earlier post, I recently test-rode an '04 Buenos Aires and loved the ride. I'm still far from buying because there are quite a few more bikes I'm going to try first-Bianchi Vitara, Bianchi Vigorelli, Trek 2300 (FUN FUN FUN!) My question is, for $300 more, I can get full Ultegra and upgraded wheels on the Zurich over the BA. Is it worth it? BA is top of my price range, but I could stretch if it's worth it. I haven't yet had a chance to do a side by side ride off. Looking forward to that, too. Other suggestions welcome.
Thanks.
The real difference between 105 components and Ultrega, and for that matter, Ultrega and Dura-ace, is durability and strength. Of course, Dura-Ace shifts smoother than Ulterga, but not that much, but Ultrega shifts a whole lot better than 105.
The springs on the Dura-Ace are much better and last longer than Ultraga's, but the operations is about the same. With Ultrega to 105, the operation is not as smooth, and the drop off in durability is a bit steeper. All in all, for $300 bucks, is just the front derailleur and bottom brack worth it? If you figure that the bearings will be a lot better and, therefore, last longer, I would say yes, definately.
I started researching road bikes last May with an intent on buying next May. I have been steeped in literature, rides, anecdotes, real-world experiences. I started out wanting a full 105 bike. Then I tested a few of them and a few Ultrega bikes, and it was no contest. I am now looking at a full Ultrega bike, with the Zurich and Trek 5200 at the top of my list. If I could fall into an extra $1,000, I would jump to the Maillot Jaune or 5500 for the Dura-Ace 10 speed system.