Micoshift,SRAM Double Tap or STi?

[Psyclist]

Currently looking at changing my groupset on my bike come the next few months. Like the 2300 STi but am not keen on how you 'arch' the levers inwards to change gear as they're pretty loose.

Known about SRAM whch I've been keen on since seeing it, then came across Microshift.

I like the look of Shimano 105 brifters (brake/shifter) but at the moment, I have my eye mainly on Microshift White and SRAM Rival out of the three.

Which have you tried/do you own/prefer?

I'm aware of shift timing and smootheness between all three but am looking at the brifter actions mainly too.
Here are how the alternatives work for those who might not know.

Microshift


SRAM


Shimano STi

 

[Psyclist]

Anyone?

 

[NormanD]

I have sram double tap on my Boardman CX and I find them very easy to use, you can adjust them to suit your hand reach too .. big plus from me

 

[Vapin' Joe]

That seems a hell of a long throw on the Microshift for changing to the larger sprockets. Wouldn't fancy it with cold tired hands.

 

[smokeysmoo]

I have Shimano on one bike and Campagnolo on the other, (though I know you're not looking at Campag). I've only ever used these two so can't comment on the others. I've heard it's a good idea to test a bike with SRAM though to see if your happy with their double tap system, but loads of people are using it and on the whole seem to like it.
I've never had any problems with Shimano, but decided to try Campag on my winter bike, and TBH I don't like it and wish I'd stuck with Shimano, but hey ho, until it breaks there is nothing I can do, and there in lies the benefit of testing a system before you buy
I'll consider SRAM when the time comes, but I'll be sure to test it out first. SRAM Red would look awesome though on my best bike

 

[Psyclist]

I have sram double tap on my Boardman CX and I find them very easy to use, you can adjust them to suit your hand reach too .. big plus from me

This is what I was leaning towards SRAM for, although not fussed about shift timing as I am only recreational at the moment.

That seems a hell of a long throw on the Microshift for changing to the larger sprockets. Wouldn't fancy it with cold tired hands.

'You're right, the Microshift is supposed to be smooth, but the shifter looks like it'll do my hands in in cold weather with that stretch on the shifts. Problem is, I can't test a bike with Microshift as nobody has a bike with one around my way.

I have Shimano on one bike and Campagnolo on the other, (though I know you're not looking at Campag). I've only ever used these two so can't comment on the others. I've heard it's a good idea to test a bike with SRAM though to see if your happy with their double tap system, but loads of people are using it and on the whole seem to like it.
I've never had any problems with Shimano, but decided to try Campag on my winter bike, and TBH I don't like it and wish I'd stuck with Shimano, but hey ho, until it breaks there is nothing I can do, and there in lies the benefit of testing a system before you buy
I'll consider SRAM when the time comes, but I'll be sure to test it out first. SRAM Red would look awesome though on my best bike

Campy looks rather good but with my new build upgrades and budget, they seem to be out of the question.

What don't you like about the Campagnolo groupset or even the Ergopower levers if I may ask?

 

[smokeysmoo]

What don't you like about the Campagnolo groupset or even the Ergopower levers if I may ask?

I'm not keen on the thumb shifters, and also the way the shift levers move. I have got used to it now, but after years of Shimano it's just not something I expected. I really didn't like it at first but like I say I've got used to it now, (perhaps as well as can't afford to change it!). Get along to a decent bike shop and see how the different set ups feel.
You won't have any problems finding shops with Shimano and SRAM equipped bikes, (and Campag for that matter), not sure about Microshift though, don't know if any manufacturers are using it on their bike builds.
FWIW I paid About £350 for a full Campagnolo Veloce Black groupset, so price wise it's comparable with equivalent spec groupsets from Shimano and SRAM. In fact I think it was tad cheaper than Shimano at the time.

 

[Edge705]

STI trust me its less complicated and much smoother IMO - BTW I have all the groupsets except microshift

 

[Psyclist]

Seems like Shimano is the most recommended so far. I have a facebook friend from the U.S who swears by Microshift and he has tried all of the others.
I have asked a guy on youtube to do a review on the Microshift too.

I like my 2300 brifters but need to see what the 105 or higher spec brifters are like in comparison.

 

[mcshroom]

The only bike manufacturer I know of that uses microshift (or branded versions of the same) is Merida with some of their low-mid range bikes.

 

[amaferanga]

I thought only Americans used the term 'brifters'....

SRAM for me. I've only used SRAM and Shimano though. I wouldn't buy those Microshift shifters because they look hideous in the red/white colour combo.

 

[Rob500]

What's going on it the 'Shimano' video? Why does he have to shift back down to 1 from 3 before moving up to 2?
I've got Shimano Tiagra STi and I just shift down one at a time.

 

[dellzeqq]

That seems a hell of a long throw on the Microshift for changing to the larger sprockets. Wouldn't fancy it with cold tired hands.

absolutely.

 

[martint235]

I've got SRAM Red on Lelly and 105 on the commuter. Red does shift quickly but boy are the levers loud, the clunk as you shift down a gear can be heard about 3 bikes away. 105 shifts smoothly and without fuss but I suppose Red just about wins it for responsiveness.

 

[Sittingduck]

I have Rival on my best bike and 105 on my commuter. I would say that Rival edges the shifting speed (just) and is lighter. 105 is more solid feeling and less plasticy. Take your pick - not much in it, they are both impressive.

FWIW I think some Felt bikes have Microshifters. Guy from work has one and hates the shifters!