I have 2003 DA 9 speed. Looking at a new bike. Is it worth the $ to go DA 10 speed? Or is my '03 9 sp. okay?
I know the 10 looks cooler and all that - but I’m looking for opinions…
Is it worth it?
I could use the extra $ on some cool aero-bars!
9 speed is fine.
Get some cool aerobars. (or wheels)
Considered going from 9 to 10 sp but after some analysis concluded that there was more to gain by going to compact crank instead.
I think it is important for people to look at the *real *differences between 9 and 10 speed Dura-Ace when making this decision, then they can make an informed judgement call based more on fact about whether it is an appropriate purchase for their needs.
Things to consider: The primary difference between 9 and 10 speed Dura-Ace is in the crank and bottom bracket. The cranks use and integrated bottom bracket spindle that is titanium. It virtually eliminates (or at least greatly reduces) the weight of the former 9 speed bottom bracket. Additionally, the spindle is significantly larger in diameter, potentially making it stiffer. The hollow forged crank arms are extremely light but stiffer under load than the previous 9 speed versions. The chainrings are one of several improvments in front shifting. The solid-looking machined chainrings are slightly narrower for 10 speed but much stiffer laterally with improved shift rivets and gates synchronized to delivery better shifts from small ring up to large ring, the toughest shift on a bike. The front derailleur body, or the hinged portions that make up the pivots, are forged and are much wider than previous 9 speed versions. The benefit is quicker, quieter, more responsive shifting when used with any crankset, but especially when combined with the integrated Shimano crank and bottom bracket. The front derailleur must move slightly less distance than the 9 to actuate the shift, requiring less lever travel and making the shift faster and easier. The difference is most noticable with the new STI levers but is also important with the much shorter 10 speed bar-end shifter since the lever does not provide the degree of leverage the ratcheting STI lever does. The brakes have been improved with a larger, easier to grip barrel adjuster and better quick release. The individual cogs on the cogset are now closer together, making shifting faster and actuating the shift with less lever travel. Overall, the group is lighter than 9 speed. The rear derailleur uses the similar forged technology to the front derailleur and is stiffer from 9 speed to 10 speed. The result, when combined with the closer cog spacing, is faster shifting and quieter shifting. The chain is directional: Read the installation instructions for more information on this.
A big problem with the difference between 9 and 10 speed is that a cursory examination of the two component kits results in a somewhat superficial assessment that the primary difference is one additional cog. That is a short-sighted view. There are a number of tangible features and benefits on 10 speed that are not present on 9 speed Dura-Ace. Whether or not you feel these features and benefits constitute a buying decision on your part is your call.
Oh, I should have added:
Availability of 9 speed wear parts from cogsets to chains to replacement shifters is beginning to wane. It is available now, but that will begin to change in the next two years significantly until replacement parts become an issue. That may be another factor in your decision.
Availability of 9 speed wear parts from cogsets to chains to replacement shifters is beginning to wane. It is available now, but that will begin to change in the next two years significantly until replacement parts become an issue.
I belive that Chris DeStefano of Shimano debunked that myth recently in Velonews.
We can always count on Tom. Thanks dude!
Then it must be true! In two years time, Shimano will have much less 9sp availability, as will retailers. It is a sound and shrewd business decision… kinda like microsoft upgrading software, eventually it is just easier to comply and buy
Weeman
Then it must be true! In two years time, Shimano will have much less 9sp availability, as will retailers. It is a sound and shrewd business decision… kinda like microsoft upgrading software, eventually it is just easier to comply and buy
Weeman
Hmmm… history has not proven that to be true with 6-7, 7-8 and 8-9 changes…
Or at least Jasen Thorpe did.
Or at least Jasen Thorpe did.
http://www.velonews.com/tech/report/articles/7893.0.html
You’re right, it was Jasen not Chris.
I think it will be available, just not as easily… hence wait times etc… impatient people spend money elsewhere,or on other things
Weeman
It’s a non-issue.
Tom,
I am building up a road bike and have already purchased a Dura Ace 7700 front delrailleur. Am having a hard time finding a 7700 rear for a double. The 7800 rear says it is compatible with a 9 speed. Any issues with having a 7700 front and a 7800 rear?
Mark
Yeah, you’ll be 100 off. Not good at all. Upgrade now.
If your considering upgrading don’t rule out Ultegra 10spd.
Not sure how it stacks up weight wise but the performance of Ultegra 10 is awesome.
I recently went form Dura Ace 9spd to Ultegra 10spd and was quite stunned as to how much better it all works, smoother shifting, stiffer cranks (I thought this was just BS till I rode it), and the 10spd sti levers are much more comfortable in my opinion.