Hello all-

First off. Bike is a 2017 Giant Anyroad 1 w/Tiagra groupset.

I've been thinking about upgrading to a 105 but have read that getting a decent set of shift cables can make a world of difference from the stock ones. I had a bit of an off last week and required my bars to be re-taped. I decided to see if they would install a set of Jagwire's Elite Link cables. The mechanic at my LBS said that I wouldn't notice the difference.

Thoughts?

I don't think you will notice any difference, unless the originals were routed wrong. You don't wrap your bars yourself? It's a meditative activity that allows you to explore your inner self.

I don't think that you will notice any difference

I think the move from Tiagra to 105 will leave you either underwhelmed or stubbornly happy.
basically, you will question the benefit if you are honest or you will demand to believe it's a night and difference upgrade in order to justify the cost.

have at it if you want, it's just a lot of $ for a little gain.
new shifters, front derailleur, rear derailleur, chain, crankset, bottom bracket, cables, and bar tape is an undertaking.
but you will get 1 more cog and the possible placebo effect of 'crisper shifting'.

not saying you shouldn't do it. It's your time and money and this is a hobby. Have at it for the experience and fun of it.


as for upgraded housing, some people swear its better. I have no idea. I use cables from my local collective that cost $1.50 each and buy bulk lined Jagwire housing that comes out to $1/foot.
it works perfect on all my bikes. 11speed road, 11speed gravel, touring, mountain, etc.
hardly high end housing.

Having just switched to the less expensive Jagwire Pro Shift Kit than the the elite, I noticed. Not just noticed but was amazed at the difference between what I usually use and the new stuff. I will never go back to generic cables and housing again.

How long were you using the old stuff before you switched to the new?