Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 are two of the most popular groupsets in the Shimano range, and they offer different levels of performance, features, and price.
Shimano Claris is the entry-level groupset, providing reliable shifting, braking, and other features at a lower cost. Shimano 105 is the mid-level groupset, offering more features and better performance than Claris, but at a higher cost.
In this article, we will compare the two groupsets, looking at their components, features, and performance. We will also discuss the differences in price and help you decide which one is best for you.
What Is Shimano Claris Groupset?
Shimano Claris Groupset is a great choice for entry-level road cycling. It is a reliable and affordable groupset that offers great performance and durability.
The Shimano Claris groupset is made up of components that are designed to work together to provide a smooth and efficient ride. The components are designed to be lightweight and durable, making them perfect for beginner cyclists.
The Shimano Claris groupset includes shifters, derailleurs, cranksets, brakes, and cassettes. The shifters are ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and efficient shifting experience. The derailleurs are designed to provide smooth and precise shifting.
The cranksets are designed for efficient power transfer and are available in various sizes and configurations. The brakes are designed to provide powerful stopping power and are available in rim and disc brake options.
The cassettes are designed to provide a wide range of gear ratios for different riding conditions.
The Shimano Claris groupset is excellent for beginner cyclists who want to get into road cycling. It is affordable, reliable, and provides great performance.
The components are designed to work together to provide a smooth and efficient ride. The components are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for beginner cyclists.
What Is Shimano 105 Groupset?
Shimano 105 is a popular groupset choice among cyclists, offering great value for money and reliable performance.
It is the entry-level offering from Shimano and is often seen on entry-level road bikes and mid-range models. The groupset comprises various components, including shifters, derailleurs, brakes, cranksets, and cassettes. The Shimano 105 groupset offers various gear ratios for riding styles and terrain.
It uses Shimano’s ‘Shadow RD’ technology, which reduces the size of the rear derailleur and improves its shifting performance. The shifters are ergonomically designed to offer comfortable and precise shifting.
The brakes offer excellent stopping power and modulation, and the cranksets are lightweight and strong.
The Shimano 105 groupset is renowned for its reliability and durability. The components are designed to stand up to the rigors of everyday riding, and Shimano’s excellent customer service backs the groupset.
It is also relatively easy to maintain, with most components being easy to service and replace.
Overall, the Shimano 105 groupset is a great choice for cyclists looking for reliable performance and value for money.
It offers a wide range of gear ratios to suit various riding styles, and its components are designed to stand up to the rigors of everyday riding. It is also relatively easy to maintain and is backed by Shimano’s excellent customer service.
Shimano Claris Vs 105 Groupset – Key Differences
Crankset
Shimano Claris crankset is a key component of the Claris groupset, designed for entry-level road cycling. Its durable and lightweight construction offers reliable performance for riders starting their cycling journey.
Its crankset typically has a compact chainring configuration, providing various gear ratios suitable for various terrains.
It utilizes Shimano’s Hollowtech technology, which enhances stiffness and power transfer. The Claris crankset is available in different crank arm lengths to accommodate different rider preferences and bike sizes.
It provides a cost-effective and dependable option for beginners and recreational road cyclists.
Shimano 105 crankset is a high-performance component of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It features lightweight and stiff construction, delivering efficient power transfer and improved pedaling efficiency.
The 105 crankset typically comes with various chainring configurations, including compact or standard options, allowing riders to choose the gear ratios that suit their riding style.
It also utilizes Shimano’s Hollowtech II technology, enhancing rigidity and durability. The 105 crankset is available in different crank arm lengths to accommodate different rider preferences and bike sizes.
It is a popular choice for riders seeking a balance of performance, durability, and value.
Front Derailleur
Shimano Claris front derailleur is designed to provide reliable shifting performance in various riding conditions. It is compatible with 8-speed drivetrains and features a wide pivot link construction for smooth, accurate shifting.
It also has an adjustable cable tension system and a low-profile design for improved aerodynamics.
Shimano 105 front derailleur is designed for use with Shimano’s 11-speed drivetrain. It features a wide pivot link construction for smooth, precise shifting and an adjustable cable tension system for easy setup.
It also has a low-profile design for improved aerodynamics and a wide gear range for tackling terrain.
Rear Derailleur
Shimano Claris rear derailleur is a reliable and affordable option for anyone considering upgrading their drivetrain. It features lightweight aluminum construction and is available in short- and long-cage versions.
Its rear derailleur offers smooth and precise shifting across all eight gears, making it a great choice for road and mountain biking.
Shimano 105 rear derailleur is a step from the Claris model, offering improved performance and durability. It features a more robust construction with a cold-forged aluminum body and a steel pulley cage.
The 105 rear derailleur is available in short and long-cage versions and provides smooth and precise shifting across all 11 gears.
Brakes
Shimano Claris brakes are designed for entry-level road bikes and provide reliable performance and easy operation. The brakes use a dual-pivot design, which provides increased braking power and modulation.
The brakes are compatible with Shimano’s STI shifters, allowing the rider to shift and brake with one hand. The brakes are designed with a reach adjuster, which allows the rider to customize the distance between the brake lever and handlebar.
Shimano 105 brakes are designed for performance road bikes and provide reliable braking power and modulation. The brakes use a dual-pivot design, which provides increased braking power and modulation.
The brakes are compatible with Shimano’s STI shifters, allowing the rider to shift and brake with one hand. The brakes are designed with a reach adjuster, which allows the rider to customize the distance between the brake lever and handlebar.
The brakes also feature an adjustable pad contact point, which allows the rider to customize the feel of the brakes.
Cassette
Shimano Claris cassette is a key component of the Claris groupset, designed for entry-level road cycling. It typically offers an 8-speed configuration, providing various gear ratios suitable for various terrains and rider abilities.
The Claris cassette is constructed with durable materials to withstand road riding demands.
It features Hyperglide technology, ensuring smooth and precise shifting performance. The cassette is available in different tooth count options, allowing riders to select the gear range that best suits their riding preferences.
The Shimano Claris cassette offers reliable and cost-effective performance for beginner and recreational road cyclists.
Shimano 105 cassette is a high-performance component of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It typically offers an 11-speed configuration, providing a wide range of gear ratios for optimal performance on various terrains.
The 105 cassette is constructed with lightweight and durable materials, ensuring efficient power transfer and durability.
It incorporates Shimano’s Hyperglide technology, enabling smooth and precise shifting even under high load conditions. The cassette is available in different tooth count options, allowing riders to customize their gear ratios based on their riding preferences.
The Shimano 105 cassette offers reliable and precise shifting performance for road cyclists seeking a balance of performance and value.
Chain
Shimano Claris chain is an essential component of the Claris drivetrain system, designed for entry-level road cycling. It features durable construction and is compatible with 8-speed drivetrains.
The Claris chain provides smooth and reliable shifting performance, ensuring precise gear changes during rides.
It incorporates Shimano’s Hyperglide technology, which promotes smooth and efficient power transfer, contributing to an efficient pedaling experience.
The Clari’s chain is designed to withstand the demands of road cycling and offers a cost-effective option for beginners and recreational riders.
Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, helps maintain the chain’s performance and longevity.
Shimano 105 chain is a high-quality component of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It is compatible with 11-speed drivetrains and features durable construction for reliable performance.
The 105 chain utilizes Shimano’s Hyperglide technology, enabling smooth and precise shifting even under high load conditions.
It offers excellent power transfer, contributing to efficient pedaling and optimal drivetrain performance. The Shimano 105 chain is built to withstand the demands of road cycling, providing long-lasting durability and consistent performance.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, helps maximize the chain’s lifespan and performance.
Shifters
Shimano Claris shifters are integral to the Claris groupset, designed for entry-level road cycling. They provide smooth and reliable shifting performance, ensuring accurate gear changes during rides.
The Claris shifters feature Shimano’s Dual Control technology, combining the gear shifting and brake control functions in one lever.
They offer ergonomic designs, providing comfortable and intuitive operation. The Claris shifters are built with durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliable performance. They offer a cost-effective option for beginners and recreational road cyclists seeking reliable shifting performance.
Shimano 105 shifters are high-performance components of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. They provide precise and responsive shifting performance, enabling quick and accurate gear changes during rides.
The 105 shifters feature Shimano’s Dual Control technology, integrating gear shifting and brake control functions into one lever for convenient operation.
They offer ergonomic designs with comfortable hoods, promoting a comfortable and secure grip. The Shimano 105 shifters are built with durable materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
They are a popular choice among riders seeking high-level shifting performance and quality.
Shimano Claris Vs 105 Groupset – Similarities
Both groupsets offer similar performance and features, but the 105 groupset is more advanced and of higher quality. Both groupsets have Shimano’s Dual Control shifting technology, but the 105 has a more advanced version.
The Claris groupset features a 2-piece crankset, while the 105 groupset features a Hollowtech II crankset. The 105 groupset also has a greater range of brake options, including hydraulic disc brakes.
In conclusion, the Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 groupsets offer similar performance and features, but the 105 groupset is more advanced and of higher quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 components upgradeable?
Yes, both Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 groupsets are upgradeable within their respective Shimano hierarchy.
Are Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 available in different sizes?
Shimano Claris and Shimano 105 components are available in different sizes to accommodate various bike frame sizes and configurations.
It includes cranksets with different chainring sizes, front derailleurs with varying clamp diameters, and rear derailleurs with different cage lengthsIt’s important to choose the correct sizes that are compatible with your specific bike frame and drivetrain setup.
Which groupset is better for road cycling?
Shimano 105 is generally considered the better groupset for road cycling due to its superior performance and a higher level of refinement. It offers smoother, more precise shifting, improved ergonomics, and better overall durability than Shimano Claris.
However, the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences, budget, and the rider’s specific needs.
Final Words
The Shimano Claris groupset is an excellent entry-level option for cyclists seeking a reliable, affordable drivetrain.
It is a great choice for recreational cyclists and commuters who don’t need the performance of higher-end groupsets. The Shimano 105 groupset, on the other hand, is a mid-range option that offers improved performance and durability over the Claris groupset.
It is a great choice for cyclists looking for a reliable drivetrain that can handle more demanding rides. Both groupsets offer great value for money and will provide years of reliable performance.
