Choosing the right groupset is an important decision when it comes to cycling. A groupset is a collection of components that includes the gears, brakes, and shifters of a bike. It is responsible for the bike’s overall performance, weight, and price. In this blog post, we will compare two popular groupsets from Shimano – the GRX 400 and the 105.
Shimano GRX 400
The Shimano GRX 400 is a gravel-specific groupset designed for off-road cycling. It offers a range of features and components that make it an excellent choice for gravel riders. Let’s take a closer look.
Features and Components
Crankset
The GRX 400 crankset comes in 1x, 2x, and 3x options. It has a Hollowtech II construction, which makes it lightweight and durable. The chainring sizes available range from 30T to 48T.
Cassette
The GRX 400 cassette comes in 10-speed and 11-speed options. It has a wide range of gear ratios, with the 11-42T cassette offering the most range.
Shifters
The GRX 400 shifters have a textured surface that provides a better grip, even when riding in wet conditions. They also have a shorter lever throw that makes shifting more precise and easier.
Rear Derailleur
The GRX 400 rear derailleur has a Shadow RD+ design, which helps to reduce chain bounce and improve chain retention. It is available in both long cage and short cage options.
Pros
- Specifically designed for off-road cycling
- Wide range of gear ratios
- Shorter lever throw for more precise shifting
- Shadow RD+ design improves chain retention
Cons
- Limited chainring options
- Not ideal for road cycling
Shimano 105
The Shimano 105 is a road cycling groupset that has been a popular choice for many years. It is known for its reliable performance and value for money. Let’s take a closer look.
Features and Components
Crankset
The 105 crankset comes in 2x and 3x options. It has a Hollowtech II construction, which makes it lightweight and durable. The chainring sizes available range from 34T to 53T.
Cassette
The 105 cassette comes in 10-speed and 11-speed options. It has a wide range of gear ratios, with the 11-34T cassette offering the most range.
Shifters
The 105 shifters have a Dual Control Lever design, which allows for both upshifts and downshifts from the same lever. They also have an adjustable reach that can be customized to fit different hand sizes.
Rear Derailleur
The 105 rear derailleur has a Shadow RD design, which helps to reduce chain bounce and improve chain retention. It is available in both long cage and short cage options.
Pros
- Reliable performance
- Wide range of gear ratios
- Dual Control Lever design allows for easier shifting
- Shadow RD design improves chain retention
Cons
- Not specifically designed for off-road cycling
- May be heavier than other groupsets
Comparison between Shimano GRX 400 and 105
Now that we’ve looked at the features and components of both the Shimano GRX 400 and the 105, let’s compare them based on a few key factors.
Performance
The Shimano GRX 400 is designed for off-road cycling, while the 105 is designed for road cycling. Both groupsets offer a wide range of gear ratios, which allows for smooth and precise shifting. However, the GRX 400 has a shorter lever throw, which can make shifting even easier and more precise. The GRX 400 also has the Shadow RD+ design, which can help improve chain retention on bumpy terrain.
Weight
In terms of weight, the Shimano GRX 400 and 105 are similar. However, the GRX 400 does have a slightly lighter front derailleur compared to the 105, which may make a small difference in overall weight.
Price
The Shimano GRX 400 is generally more expensive than the 105. This is likely due to the fact that it is a newer, more specialized groupset. However, the exact price difference may depend on the specific components and configurations chosen.
Compatibility with Different Types of Bikes
The Shimano GRX 400 is specifically designed for gravel and off-road cycling, while the 105 is designed for road cycling. While the GRX 400 can be used on a road bike, it may not be the ideal choice for this type of riding. Similarly, while the 105 can be used on a gravel bike, it may not offer the same level of performance and durability as the GRX 400.
Which Groupset is Right for You?
Choosing the right groupset depends on a variety of factors, including your budget, the type of riding you do, and your skill level. Here are some recommendations based on specific scenarios:
- If you mainly ride on the road and want a reliable, value-for-money groupset, the Shimano 105 is a great choice.
- If you primarily ride gravel and want a groupset that is specifically designed for off-road cycling, the Shimano GRX 400 is an excellent choice.
- If you’re a beginner cyclist on a budget, the Shimano 105 offers a great balance of performance and affordability.
- If you’re an experienced cyclist looking for high-performance components, the Shimano GRX 400 may be worth the investment.
Ultimately, the choice between the Shimano GRX 400 and the 105 will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Both the Shimano GRX 400 and the 105 are excellent groupsets that offer reliable performance and a wide range of features. The GRX 400 is a specialized groupset designed for gravel and off-road cycling, while the 105 is a versatile groupset that is well-suited to road cycling. When choosing between these two groupsets, consider factors such as performance, weight, price, and compatibility with your bike. With the right choice, you can enjoy smooth and reliable shifting on every ride.
