There’s never been a better time than now to own a bicycle considering just how popular they’ve become over the years. But, as fun as bikes are, they do require some maintenance. One of the most important components that you need to pay attention to is the gears. That’s why we’re rating Shimano gears ranking best to worst to help you find the perfect replacement gears for your bicycle.
Shimano is a well-known bike component manufacturer and a name that you’ll become very familiar with if this is your first time buying a bicycle.
Shimano Gears Review
After a lot of research and testing, here are our thoughts on Shimano derailleurs gears best to worst. Read on to find out which one took the top spot.
1. ShimanoUltegra R8000 Groupset
First up, we have the Ultegra R8000 model with its stunning aesthetics. It features a similar design to what you’d expect from the best and most high-end brands on the market.
To this end, the Shimano bicycle gear shifters feature a handy grip that brings a premium feel to your bike. While the new and improved derailleurs are just what you need to enjoy smooth gear shifting.
What impressed us most about these groupsets is just how lightweight they are. Yet they are as durable as you’d expect too! We applaud Shimano for reducing the size and weight of this group set from the previous Ultegra 6800.
These lighter-weight groupsets are just what you need when zipping through town as they make it possible for you to ride at faster and faster speeds.
2. Shimano SLX M7000 Complete Group
A Shimano gears review wouldn’t be complete without this SLX M7000 groupset which comes with such features as strong transmission as well as incredible mechanical crankset. This budget-friendly groupset has the capacity to reach up to 11 speeds.
The brakes on this groupset will bring your bike to a complete stop within moments, while the resin pad calipers make it easier to decelerate your bike. We also noticed an improved chainring design on this groupset. It has round and narrow teeth to keep the chain in place.
You’re guaranteed a comfortable and reliable ride with this groupset and the cranks are arguably the most stylish that we’ve seen.
We also found that the improved crank design makes it easier to manage the 11-speed transmission. The same crank arm is responsible for providing two different features for you, namely 1×11 and 2×11 settings.
3. Shimano Dura Ace R9100
Next, we have the Dura-Ace R9100 which many believe to be one of Shimano’s greatest creations. This is perfect for anyone that’s building a bicycle from scratch because. It’s built to last and it’s a groupset that comes with lots of different features including a power meter and even hydraulic disc brakes.
When it comes to aesthetics, this groupset features sleek sharp edges that add a nice visual aspect to your bike. We also noticed the asymmetric crank arm features which aid in ensuring smooth gear shifting. It has been shown to reduce weight as well.
Also included in this groupset is an all-new set of derailleurs which are complementary to Shimano’s mountain bike parts. This means that you’re looking at a long-lasting and durable rear mech that helps to protect the rear of your bike in case of accidents and emergency crashes.
Not only that, but this new and improved derailleur is great for use with different types of gear systems including 11-30 cassettes. Yes, this is a smaller variant but it’s available in a standard variant with a huge chainring of up to 53 teeth while the smaller ring comes with 39 teeth.
How to Get the Best Shimano Gears
Whether you’re looking for Shimano derailleurs best to worst or measuring Shimano gears, we found that it’s more effective to consider the following pointers in order to efficiently narrow down your options.
Shifters
Bike shifters are designed to make it easier for you to change Shimano road bike gears on a dime.
That’s why you want high-quality shifters which make it that much easier to enjoy a smoother ride. Some models even work noiselessly.
Shifters are an important component because it’s something that you’re going to be using a lot. A lot of people prefer stiff and loud shifters despite the fact that they give off a mechanical feel.
Brakes
When rating Shimano components best to worst, the topic of braking systems often comes to the fore, with the two most popular options being rim brakes and disc brakes.
Disc brakes allow you to bring the bike to a stop instantly with better precision while rim brakes allow for a much softer braking experience overall, thanks to having dedicated brake pads.
Speed Setting
Another part that comes up a lot when rating Shimano bike components best to worst is the speed setting of said groupset.
There are different speed settings to choose from, enabling you to accelerate speed or handle slopes better.
For instance, if you plan on riding up a mountain or trail-biking then you’ll want an 11-speed transmission groupset for best results.
But, if your goal is to go for leisurely rides on flat roads then a lower speed setting will work just fine on your groupset.
Weight
The next thing you need to do is to figure out what you plan to use your bicycle for in the first place.
For instance, if you’re looking to use your bike for leisurely cycling then the groupset’s weight shouldn’t be of any concern.
But, if you’re looking for a racing bike then you want a lightweight groupset that’s easy to maneuver. That’s because lightweight components offer better acceleration.
Conclusion
As you can see, it all comes down to preference at the end of the day, and ours is the ShimanoUltegra R8000 Groupset.
This unique groupset is lightweight and perfect for anyone who has a need for speed.
It has a wide 11-34 cassette range as well and its caliper brakes are compatible with 28mm tires. This is a feature that wasn’t available with previous versions.
Most importantly, this groupset is safe, durable, stylish, and easier to use overall.