I got my first up close and personal look at Shimano Ultegra 10 speed at the Nice Triathlon Expo and it was very nice.
Shimano has done a good job of significantly upgrading several key features on this component group that has long since been in need of an update.
I think Shimano has shot their Dura-Ace sales in the foot with this though. The Ultegra is really, really nice. The new crank looks great, the BB assembly is very cool and ingeneral it is a huge upgrade over previous 9 speed Ultegra in function, features and appearance.
To me the question may become, how will I sell Dura-Ace over this? The ultimate answer will likely be Shimano carefully controlling how much of it is available.
So my right 9spd Ultegra STI lever is almost shot on my road bike. By these comments, Tom, I’m thinking that when I replace it this winter/early spring, that I might as well go the extra mile and shell out for a complete 10sp drivetrain/STI upgrade.
Why not just go to 9sp dura-ace. Seems like they be on sale soon, at least at Tom’s store.
No accurate info on pricing or availability at this time.
Hello Tom,
Dura Ace will still sell. Way too many people want the best. Look at Campy history. Their second or even third tier line has always had 98% of the performance at a bargain price. Record always sells well. They learned that lesson when Record was the standard and they produced a limited run of Super Record. They stressed that Super Record was way higher priced and not as durable, meant strictly for pro racers in special events such as hour record attempts. They figured they would sell maybe 20 sets to collectors. Couldn’t keep the stuff on the shelves.
ShawnT
PS good job in Nice, I know its not what you hoped for timewise, but I suspect out of you 200 or so tris its one of the ones you will fondly remember.