sram vs shimono
 

I have a lot of info written down on shimono components. But when i got to the store i saw some bikes had sram. Anyone have a list on which is the top components that has both company's on it.Like from the best to worst?

good starting point:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gruppo

I like Sram chains; the whole Power Link thing makes changing them pretty trivial. Everything else, I like Shimano; you can't argue with 40+ years of experience and pretty good engineering. They clearly dominate the market, and I personally think it's because they make decent stuff for a (usually) decent price.

I've read that Campognolo components are very good, but I can't afford them, and don't actually know anyone who uses them, but maybe you should check them out as well.

http://bikeconnection.net/articles/b...ikes-pg200.htm

About 2/3 the way down the page, there is a table that compares components from SRAM and Shimano. It might be a bit outdated, but it's useful to see how components levels compare.

Shimano has more price-points levels for OEM product managers to hit target price point..

Sram appears just on some more costly builds these days. .. Road bikes
above link focuses on MTBs

Unless you are buying Components retail, and DIY on your frame up build.

For road groups it goes: Red (best) -> Force -> Rival -> Apex

They tend to target the mid to higher end part of the market. Not wanting to get into an argument but many would characterize even Apex as being "better" than Shimano's 105 but obviously personal preference plays a big part in the decision.

I'm looking at a carbon bike to reward myself for hitting 180# (a way to go yet) http://www.masibikes.com/bikes/carbo...ione-apex-2012 . I like this one because of the 11-32 cassette on the SRAM Apex, and my favorite LBS sells Masi and Surly. I live where it is pretty hilly, but by the time I hit 180# the lower gear may not be that big a deal, and I may go with the 105 with a 12-28. The reviews I have read give the Shimano a slight edge on overall quality.

Depending on which rear der you have, you might be able to use that SRAM cassette with a Shimano set-up. Most of my bikes have a Shimano derailleurs (front and back), and I use SRAM cassettes fairly often with no problems (many others do, too...). That 32 cog might be at the limit for some ders, but you will most likely be OK. Talk with your LBS about it when the time comes.


My thoughts on the different brands goes like this: They're all great, but Campy is above my pay grade and the difference between SRAM and Shimano are close-enough in quality at the levels I purchase that I tend to go with the brand that I am sure that any bike shop will likely have in stock... Shimano.

Campagnolo components are fantastic and they have less expensive lines - stuff at similar price ranges to 105 and Rival. They don't really go under that level and not many bikes come equipped with campy groups. In terms of pricing, I think centaur and Veloce are FAR better values than what you get from Shimano or SRAM. Shimano's STI front trim is primitive compared to Campy, Shimano is less durable and they don't support their past products. Campagnolo is rebuild-able.

Some of this is preference, but I thought SRAM's double tap stuff was annoying and shifted poorly in comparison. I've also heard of durability concerns. There is no better value in cycling than a Veloce gruppo.

unless you test the SRAM against Shimano you'll never know. I used Shimano low end stuff for several years commuting. Test rode multiple brands of bikes with SRAM and with Shimano. Picked up new bike with the SRAM Apex. won't go back. it was that different for me personally. do your own road test and see for yourself. it's only time. your mileage may very but it was a personal perception on the ride that sold me. good luck. hope you make the 180# soon!