Shimano 105
Shimano 105—or the ‘groupset of the people’ as it’s come to
be affectionately known—is perhaps one of the most popular and widely used performance
groupsets of all time. Designed with reliability and durability in mind, it
still offers excellent shifting and overall performance. The latest R7000
series benefits from the brand’s superior models through ‘trickle-down
technology’, meaning the gap between the brand’s top-three groupsets is now
closer than ever. Thanks to this, with 105 you’re getting what represented the
peak of technology only a few years prior.
High Tech, High Value
Across all its performance-range groupsets Shimano
incorporates Hollowtech II technology into its cranksets. Using this
technology, the brand is able to keep the weight of the 2x 11-speed crankset down
without compromising on strength and stiffness. The crankset is also offered in
a variety of sizes, in terms of both crank arm and teeth size, so that
regardless of your size and intended use you’ll find something that works for
you.
Shifting gears is certain to be stable with the R7000’s Shadow
rear derailleur. Available in both short and long cage options, add in an up to
34-teeth cassette and you’ll be able to tackle even the mightiest of climbs.
The front derailleur has been enhanced, too. Gone is the in-cable
barrel adjuster, replaced instead with an integrated cable tension port. This
is something introduced to Dura-Ace and Ultegra level models, which results in lighter
shifting between the front chain rings.
At the controls is an ergonomically designed shifter, which
for the latest edition has received similar treatment to the pricier Ultegra
R8000 series. Overall, the shifters have been reduced in size, and re-shaped to
make them easier to grip in slippery conditions.
High Quality, High Value
When upgrading your bike components to something more
performance focused, at an economical price, then Shimano 105 is something of a
rite of passage among cycling enthusiasts. It’s combination of performance,
durability, and reliability makes it a groupset favored by road racers, tourers
and commuters alike. Whether you’re a proponent of disc brakes or rim brakes, it
doesn’t matter; you’ll get a quality groupset regardless of your current set
up. Whether it’s a completely new groupset or just a replacement chain, shop
the broad range at ProBikeKit.
