vrkelley

About a year ago, I upgraded from the 105 (w/8 speed cassette) to the Ultegra 6500 crank (10 speed).

105 628g
Ulte 823g

Why is the Ultegra 6500 so heavy? Does the weight give better cranking ability? Thought it might be tork but I believe the length of the crank arm affects that right?

well biked

It sounds like you're comparing the weight of the old 105 cranks that require a conventional bottom bracket with the weight of Ultegra cranks that use the newer Hollowtech II design. The new Ultegra uses outboard bearings in place of a conventional bottom bracket, so the entire assembly is included in the Ultegra's weight. In other words, you'd have to include the weight of the separate bottom bracket with the older 105 cranks to have a true weight comparison (and in doing so, you'll find the 105 crankset and bottom bracket are indeed heavier)-

old and new

Thanks well biked,I've noticed such disparities and wondered.I knew Shimano had revamped their line a while ago,never made the connection as such. My new bike (not arrived) is spec'd with newly designed Campy Veloce. "till it arrives and I've ridden it though,I'll wait to weigh in (or have you to) on that more.

vrkelley

Some laughed and said I should have boughten a whole new bike. The shop had some cheapy bikes for the same price as the upgrade. I'm glad for the Ultegra on my "old" 2002 bike.

So why are the outboard bearings better?

well biked

Some would argue they're a "solution looking for a problem." I have no strong opinion either way, but I can tell you they're theoretically better primarily because it places large bearings farther apart on the spindle. This should make for a stiffer, more durable "bottom bracket."