So why the fuss? Why does 105 get the red carpet treatment, while Claris gets treated like that one friend who always shows up late and never remembers to bring snacks?
Well…you’re about to find out.
1. Gears Aren’t Just Numbers, They’re Freedom
It’s easy to get lost in the numbers. Shimano 105 has 12 gears, Claris only has 8.
But does that extra 4 make you a better rider? Not exactly.
The truth is, those 4 extra gears on the 105 make the difference between a ride where you’re comfortably spinning and one where you’re grinding through awkwardly spaced shifts, wondering why your legs are cramping up.
More gears mean a more customizable ride, making it easier to maintain a consistent cadence, particularly for those long rides or when you’re pushing yourself.
2. Smooth Shifting: A Love Story
Let’s talk about shifting. Claris, bless its heart, gets the job done.
But there’s something magical about the smooth, swift transition of a Shimano 105.
The difference is palpable—like going from a noisy, clunky old truck to a well-oiled sports car.
The 105 provides that “snick” sound when the chain drops into place, smooth and satisfying. It’s the kind of shift that makes you smile even if you’re just riding through traffic.
Claris? Well, it shifts… but you’ll never feel the same rush.
And that’s okay—if you don’t care about finesse, Claris will take you to the destination. But we all know there’s something special about the 105.
3. Hydraulic Brakes: The End of Rim Brakes’ Reign
Hydraulic disc brakes? Yeah, they’re a game changer.
Shimano 105 doesn’t just bring better shifting, it also brings better stopping power. If you’ve been riding Claris with its old-school rim brakes, you’ll realize just how much you’ve been holding back when you switch to hydraulic discs.
It’s not just about stopping—it’s about stopping with confidence, no matter the weather.
Shimano 105 feels like you’re finally allowed to ride with the brakes that were meant for your speed. Claris? Not so much. Rim brakes on Claris just don’t cut it in the era of disc brakes.
4. Weight Shaving, Not Just for the Pros
Let’s talk weight. Sure, some people say, “It’s only a few hundred grams.” And you’d be right.
But when you’re cycling up that grueling hill, every gram counts. Shimano 105 is lighter than Claris, and while it might not be a dealbreaker for casual riders, that weight difference can make a noticeable impact if you’re pushing hard or racing.
Claris isn’t exactly heavy, but if you’re building your dream bike, shedding a bit of weight with the 105 makes sense. It’s the type of thing that the pros won’t mention but will definitely enjoy.
Shimano 105 doesn’t just ride better, it feels better.
5. More Gear Ratios = More Control
Claris, with its limited gears, gives you a solid ride.
But the 105? That’s next level.
Shimano 105’s increased gear ratios give you a much smoother ride, with fewer jerky transitions between cogs. This is key when you’re riding at a steady pace and trying to find that “just right” gear.
Claris will leave you shifting two or three times between your ideal cadence, while 105 lets you dial in that sweet spot with precision.
It’s the difference between feeling at one with your bike and just… feeling stuck.
6. Durability: It’s Built to Last
Both Claris and 105 are built to last. But let’s be real—105’s superior components hold up longer, even under intense conditions.
Whether you’re riding in rain, mud, or on endless, dusty roads, Shimano 105 can handle it all.
Meanwhile, Claris, being the entry-level choice, isn’t built to withstand the same level of wear.
The wear-and-tear comes quicker, and you’ll be replacing parts sooner. Sure, Claris is cheaper, but if you’re in it for the long haul, the 105 will save you money in the end. And that’s before you consider the resale value.
7. The “Cool” Factor
Cycling is a weird, wonderful world where certain components come with their own cultural cachet. Shimano 105 is that sweet spot where performance meets prestige.
It’s the first taste of the “racing” world that doesn’t make you break the bank. It’s where you start to feel like part of the cycling elite, even if your legs aren’t quite as elite.
Claris, on the other hand, is for the casual rider, the adventure seeker, the person who rides to explore, not to conquer.
And that’s fine! But there’s a certain allure to Shimano 105 that transcends just the components.
It’s the gateway drug to all those dreams of faster speeds, longer rides, and that elusive “racer’s edge.”
The Real Deal, or Just Gear Snobbery?
In the end, the obsession with Shimano 105 over Claris isn’t about the extra gears.
It’s about the whole experience. It’s about the luxury of smooth shifts, the joy of hydraulic brakes, and that little drop in weight that might just make the difference on your next climb.
But let’s be clear: for some, Claris is enough.
And that’s all they need.
But for those who chase that feeling of near-perfection on their bike, Shimano 105 offers a glimpse into something more.
It’s not just about being a snob—it’s about realizing that cycling is a journey, and if you’re going to invest in it, why not make the ride feel a little more… exceptional?
You’ll never go back once you taste the 105.
Pros and Cons of Shimano 105 vs Claris
| Feature | Shimano 105 | Claris |
|---|---|---|
| Shifting Performance | Crisp, smooth, and precise | Functional but less smooth |
| Braking System | Hydraulic disc brakes | Rim brakes only |
| Gear Range | 12 gears, smooth gear transitions | 8 gears, larger gaps |
| Weight | Lighter components, better for performance | Heavier, more basic |
| Durability | Long-lasting, good under load | Good for casual riding, but wears quicker |
| Price | Higher cost | Budget-friendly |
| Cultural Cache | Prestigious, racing-tier | Entry-level, no frills |
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.