I was recommended by a friend to find a bike with Shimano 105 derailleurs or better.....i see that shimano makes a lot of deralleurs...how does the other models Ultrega or something like that rate......is there a cheap range and a more expensive line......any advice?

thanks

Good-->Bad
also
Most expensive-->Least expensive
Shimano:
DI2-Dura-Ace-Ultegra-105-Tiagra-Sora-2200

Sram:
Red-Force-Rival-Apex

Campagnolo:
Super Record 11-Record-Chorus-Athena-Centaur-Veloce-Triple (sort-of)

awesome thanks!!

Also, a more riding-based perspective--since you're new to cycling as sport, Tiagra up is a valid decision. The new Tiagra group is highly functional and reliable; many roadies' issue with it is that it is "only" 9-speed. Note, however, that 9-speed chains are cheaper than 10-speeds.

Late model and brand new 105 is entry-level race quality group, except it is built to take a daily beating for many thousands of miles, unlike top-end race equipment (DA is said to be finnicky without constant management, as it is high-precision equipment; I cannot assess this personally).

If you can get 105 (or better or non-Shimano equivalent) at a good price point, absolutely do so, because it will make upgrades easier in the future. If you are realistic about your riding intentions and current skill-level, though, you'll probably have a TON of great miles on Tiagra equipment.

And, all that said, even new Sora isn't bad, depending on what you're coming from. If you're brand new to road riding (for sport), Sora will feel like the PB&J of cycling components...but you'll quickly learn that it has a variety of functional/ergonomic/value deficiencies.

Don't buy into hype. Ride what feels great, and just be aware of the hierarchy.

Disagree with DA being finicky.

Main difference between the different levels really is weight and then secondly what speeds each level is.

With Shimano the latest range is 10 speed, Campagnolo 11speed and SRAM 10 speed. If you choose components at the lower end you may be looking at 9 speed Shimano or 10 speed Campagnolo. These still function fine, but at some time parts will be harder to come buy and upgrade costs will be more down the track…

Since it’s a road bike you are looking for, also test all three group set brands to see which shift lever design you prefer. Each brand approach the gear shift design differently and also have different hood shapes with different reach.

If you feel comfortable with the hood design and shifting method, the Rival group set is the best bang for buck in terms of weight and function IMO.

That's fine, like I said, I can't account for that personally.

Agree. SRAM is pretty freakin cool and all their designs seem a cut above Shimano's stuff. But that's just me. Of course, none of my bikes have SRAM...

...yet.