More expensive components and longevity?

[MattDB]

I'm looking at getting my first road bike. I've been struggling on hills with my 1970's 3 speed. Although I love cycling and know there are many benefits to commuting on a bike, I'm doing this primarily to save money on the bus/car therefore longevity is something I'm wondering about. I've looked at a lot of bikes, I'd initially settled on a Felt Z95 with Sora groupset and then wondered if spending a bit more would be better value in the long run i.e will upgrading to a Z85 with 105 groupset mean these components will last longer than the former under the same conditions?

This isn't the only factor I'm basing my decision on but just another consideration.

All thoughts appreciated.

 

[byegad]

To a point the 'better' group-sets do last longer, but then as you 'improve' the level you are paying for lightness and start to lose durability. Sora is at the lower end but may well last longer than some other sets.

 

[HovR]

All Shimano components are fairly robust, and whilst 105 kit might last longer than Sora kit, as byegad said, a lot of what you are paying for is decreased weight and improved shifting/braking performance etc.

Also keep in mind that whilst Sora kit might not be quite so robust, it's also a lot cheaper to replace like-for-like if something does go wrong. Don't let that put you off 105, your extra money definitely does help pay for higher build quality and higher quality materials, but I wouldn't make your decision on longevity alone, as Sora will do you just fine in that regard!

 

[jack smith]

If you can afford the 105 go with it its alot nicer to use and very solid.

 

[400bhp]

I'm unconvinced a lower end shimano set such as sora lasts any shorter than an "upgraded" set.

weight/bling/responsiveness yes, but longevity no.

 

[Cycleops]

I think this hierarchy is a bit of a marketing tool for Shimano and the likes. I can't see any groupset "lasting" any more one than the other. You will still need chains, cassettes and chainrings which will wear at the same same rate whatever the group.