The SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 groupsets are two of the most popular and widely used groupsets for road cyclists. Both offer a great range of components that provide reliable and efficient performance.
But when it comes to choosing between the two, it can be difficult to decide which is best for you. In this comparison, we’ll look at the features of both groupsets, so you can decide which one is right for you.
We’ll look at the components, performance, weight, durability, and price of both groupsets and discuss the pros and cons of each. Ultimately, the decision is yours, so take your time and consider all the factors before making your final choice.
What Is Sram Apex Groupset?
SRAM Apex Groupset is a complete drivetrain package designed for serious cyclists.
It includes a crankset, shifters, derailleurs, brakes, and other components to help you get the most out of your ride.
SRAM Apex Groupset is designed to provide the best performance, durability, and value. The SRAM Apex Groupset is designed to be compatible with various bikes, including road, mountain, and cyclocross.
The SRAM Apex Groupset is great value for the money and can help you get the most out of your ride. It is the perfect choice for a serious cyclist.
Advantages of SRAM Apex
- Lightweight: SRAM Apex is one of the lightest groupsets on the market, making it ideal for riders looking to shave off some weight on their bike.
- Durability: SRAM Apex is known for its durability, making it a great choice for riders looking for a reliable and long-lasting groupset.
- Price: SRAM Apex is one of the most affordable groupsets on the market, making it a great option for riders on a budget.
Disadvantages of SRAM Apex
- Limited Range: SRAM Apex is limited in terms of the range of components available, making it less suitable for riders seeking more customization options.
- Compatibility: SRAM Apex is not compatible with all types of bikes, so riders need to ensure their bike is compatible with the groupset before purchasing.
What Is Shimano 105 Groupset?
Shimano 105 groupset is a high-end component group for road bikes, offering a great combination of performance and value.
It is the most popular groupset in the Shimano road bike range and is often the go-to choice for riders looking to upgrade their bike with reliable and affordable components.
The Shimano 105 groupset includes components for the drivetrain, brakes, and wheels. The drivetrain components include a derailleur, shifters, crankset, cassette, and chain. The Shimano 105 groupset is a great choice for riders looking to upgrade their bikes.
It offers reliable performance at an affordable price, making it a popular choice for riders of all levels. The components are designed to work together seamlessly, providing a smooth and efficient ride.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Shimano 105 groupset is a great choice for upgrading your bike.
Advantages of Shimano 105
- Range of Components: Shimano 105 offers a wide range of components, making it a great choice for riders seeking more customization options.
- Compatibility: Shimano 105 is compatible with most types of bikes, making it a great choice for riders looking for a reliable and versatile groupset.
- Price: Shimano 105 is more affordable than other groupsets on the market, making it a great option for riders on a budget.
Disadvantages of Shimano 105
- Weight: Shimano 105 is heavier than other groupsets on the market, making it less suitable for riders looking to shave off some weight on their bike.
- Durability: Shimano 105 is not as durable as other groupsets on the market, so riders need to be aware of this when making their purchase.
Sram Apex Vs Shimano 105 – Key Differences
Crankset
SRAM Apex crankset is a key component of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It features sturdy and lightweight construction, providing efficient power transfer and pedaling efficiency.
The Apex 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 utilizes SRAM’s X-SYNC technology, which enhances chain retention and overall shifting performance. The SRAM Apex crankset offers reliable and consistent performance, making it suitable for various road cycling disciplines.
Shimano 105 crankset is a high-quality 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 incorporates Shimano’s Hollowtech II technology, providing enhanced rigidity and durability. The Shimano 105 crankset is known for its reliable performance and smooth shifting, making it a popular choice among road cyclists seeking a balance of performance and value.
Derailleurs
SRAM Apex derailleurs are essential components of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. They offer precise and reliable shifting performance, enabling smooth and accurate gear changes.
The Apex derailleurs feature SRAM’s Exact Actuation technology, which ensures consistent and precise shifting across the cassette. They are available in front and rear derailleur options, offering compatibility with various drivetrain configurations.
With their durable construction and robust design, the SRAM Apex derailleurs can withstand the demands of road cycling and provide reliable performance.
They are designed to work seamlessly with other SRAM Apex components, contributing to a smooth and efficient drivetrain operation.
Shimano 105 derailleurs are integral to the 105 groupsets for road cycling enthusiasts. They deliver precise and reliable shifting performance, ensuring smooth and accurate gear changes.
The 105 derailleurs feature Shimano’s Shadow technology, which reduces the risk of chain drop and provides a sleek and low-profile design.
They are available in front and rear derailleur options, offering compatibility with various drivetrain configurations. With their durable construction and high-quality materials, the Shimano 105 derailleurs offer excellent durability and consistent performance.
They work harmoniously with other Shimano 105 components, providing seamless and efficient drivetrain operation.
Brakes
SRAM Apex brakes are essential components of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. They offer reliable and responsive braking performance, ensuring effective stopping power.
The Apex brakes typically feature a dual-pivot design, providing balanced and consistent braking force.
They are constructed with durable materials to withstand the demands of road cycling and provide long-lasting performance. With their ergonomic design and comfortable lever feel, the SRAM Apex brakes offer precise and controlled modulation.
They are designed to work seamlessly with other SRAM Apex components, contributing to a reliable and efficient braking system.
Shimano 105 brakes are integral to the 105 groupsets for road cycling enthusiasts. They deliver excellent braking performance, ensuring reliable and responsive stopping power.
The 105 brakes typically feature a dual-pivot design, providing balanced and consistent braking force distribution.
They are built with high-quality materials for durability and longevity. With their ergonomic design and comfortable lever feel, the Shimano 105 brakes offer precise and controlled braking modulation.
They work harmoniously with other Shimano 105 components, providing a reliable and efficient braking system for road cyclists.
Cassette
SRAM Apex cassette is a key component of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It typically offers various gear ratios, providing options suitable for various terrains and riding styles.
The Apex cassette is constructed with durable materials to withstand the demands of road cycling. It features SRAM’s PowerGlide 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 preferences and riding needs. The SRAM Apex cassette offers reliable and consistent shifting performance, contributing to a smooth and efficient drivetrain operation.
Shimano 105 cassette is a high-quality component of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It typically offers various gear ratios, providing options suitable for various terrains and riding styles.
The 105 cassette is constructed with durable and lightweight 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 consistent shifting performance, making it a popular choice among road cyclists seeking a balance of performance and value.
Chain
SRAM Apex chain is an essential component of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It offers reliable and smooth shifting performance, ensuring precise gear changes during rides.
The Apex chain features durable construction and is compatible with 10-speed drivetrains. It incorporates SRAM’s PowerLock technology, allowing easy installation and secure connection without special tools.
The SRAM Apex chain is built to withstand the demands of road cycling, providing long-lasting durability and consistent performance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, helps maximize the chain’s lifespan and optimize shifting performance.
The Shimano 105 chain is a high-quality component of the 105 groupsets designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It offers smooth and reliable shifting performance, ensuring precise and accurate gear changes during rides.
The 105 chain features durable construction and is compatible with 11-speed drivetrains.
It incorporates Shimano’s Hyperglide technology, providing smooth and efficient power transfer. The Shimano 105 chain is built to withstand the demands of road cycling, offering long-lasting durability and consistent performance.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, helps maintain the chain’s performance and maximize its lifespan.
Bottom Bracket
SRAM Apex bottom bracket is a crucial component of the Apex groupset, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It provides smooth and reliable rotation of the crankset, ensuring efficient power transfer.
The Apex bottom bracket typically comes in different compatibility options, such as BSA or BB30, allowing for proper integration with various bike frames.
It features durable construction and high-quality bearings, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. The SRAM Apex bottom bracket is designed to withstand the demands of road cycling and provide a seamless and efficient pedaling experience.
Regular maintenance, including proper cleaning and lubrication, helps maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan.
The Shimano 105 bottom bracket is a vital component of the 105 groupsets, designed for road cycling enthusiasts. It ensures smooth and efficient rotation of the crankset, transferring power effectively.
The 105 bottom bracket is available in different compatibility options, such as BSA or BB30, to accommodate various bike frames.
It features high-quality bearings and durable construction, providing reliable performance and longevity. The Shimano 105 bottom bracket is designed to withstand the rigors of road cycling and offer a seamless pedaling experience. Regular maintenance, including proper cleaning and lubrication, helps optimize its performance and extend its lifespan.
Shifters
SRAM Apex shifters feature DoubleTap technology, allowing fast and precise shifting. They are designed with ergonomic hoods for comfortable riding and have a reach adjustment for better fit and control.
They are also compatible with SRAM’s wide range of cassettes and chains.
Shimano 105 shifters feature RapidFire Plus technology, offering crisp and precise shifting. They are designed to be lightweight and ergonomic, with a comfortable grip and a reach adjustment for better fit and control.
They are also compatible with Shimano’s wide range of cassettes and chains.
Sram Apex Vs Shimano 105 Groupset – Similarities
The SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 groupsets are both designed for road cycling. Both groupsets offer various components, including derailleurs, shifters, brakes, cranksets, and cassettes.
Both groupsets are designed to offer reliable performance and durability for the avid road cyclist. The two groupsets also offer similar braking technology, featuring dual-pivot caliper brakes.
However, the Shimano 105 brakes offer slightly better performance, with improved modulation and power.
The two groupsets also offer similar weight, with the Apex weighing in at 2,068 grams and the 105 weighing in at 2,065 grams.
Overall, there are many similarities between the SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 groupsets, but the Shimano 105 offers slightly better performance and slightly lighter weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Differences Between SRAM Apex And Shimano 105 Groupsets?
SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 are two popular groupsets used in road cycling. Some main differences include shifting mechanisms (SRAM’s DoubleTap vs. Shimano’s STI), gear ratios (SRAM Apex 10-speed vs. Shimano 105 11-speed), weight (SRAM Apex being slightly lighter), and price (SRAM Apex often more affordable).
How Do The Shifting Performance And Durability Of SRAM Apex And Shimano 105 Groupsets Compare?
SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 groupsets offer reliable performance and durability but differ in some key areas.
SRAM Apex is lighter and more affordable, while Shimano 105 is heavier and more expensive. SRAM Apex offers a wider range of gearing options, while Shimano 105 is more limited.
SRAM Apex also has a more precise shifting system, while Shimano 105 has a more durable system.
Regarding durability, Shimano 105 is more reliable, while SRAM Apex is more prone to wear and tear. Ultimately, both groupsets offer reliable performance and durability, but their choice depends on the rider’s preferences and budget.
Final Words
The SRAM Apex and Shimano 105 groupsets are excellent choices for cyclists upgrading their bicycles.
The SRAM Apex is a great entry-level groupset that offers a great balance of performance and value. The Shimano 105 is a more advanced groupset that offers higher performance and greater durability.
Both are excellent choices for cyclists of all levels, but the SRAM Apex is the better option for those on a budget.
