SRAM Red or DA

[itsnotarace]

Ok so I am now considering my next bike™ build and am considering a SRAM Red build both for cost and weight reasons, however I was wondering how it compares to DA (asides from obvious differences such as double tap) in terms of actual functionality / long term usage / general wear and tear / overall running costs / serviceability etc.

Have been a Shimano rider literally forever so am well versed in their offerings in both road and MTB. I tested but didn't enjoy SRAM Rival back at the beginning of the year - seemed a bit clunky in terms of shift quality and although I'm sure I would get used to doubletap quickly, I'm just a bit wary if Red is no better aside from component weight.

I have done a fair amount of research myself and it seems that the cassettes are obviously costly to replace and the front mech is a bit weak, so was considering the 8 piece groupset from Fudges to save costs a bit further, and maybe use a Shimano cassette instead.

Lastly, are the brakes any good?

FWIW I would rather save up a bit longer and get DA if the shift quality is that much better, despite the weight penalty

[itsnotarace]

Raven Flyer said:

Just don't expect it to be quiet.

How come dude? I have ridden DA and it's almost silent and the indexing is really slick, really fast shifts in both directions. I'm hoping that Red is pretty close

[itsnotarace]

Raven Flyer said:

Indexing on both will be precision but the lack of material in the cassettes means that there is no density to kill the noise. Its not loud, but it is louder.

Gotcha, thanks. Not so much of a concern as dropping large on cassettes is not high on my list. I'd take durability/cheap replacement cost over weight in that area so would be looking at Ultegra/Force in that respect. Have always found the best investment is in the shifters/brakes rather than the mech's/cassettes

LRdriver II said:

Have you tried the new 7900 DA? Or is finish/texture/colours important for the look of the next superbike build?

Yes have tried DA and XTR, but only Rival in SRAM's range. I'm currently riding on 105 5600 which I am perfectly happy with but would feel a bit substandard on a £1500 frame if that makes sense

[itsnotarace]

option click said:

neilski said:

Neither. Campagnolo Super Record 11S it where it's at.

+1

Ummm.... no thanks

Edited by itsnotarace on Friday 15th October 10:40

[itsnotarace]

If money was no object (and I had a Colnago frame to put it on), then yes - my heart would choose Campy SR every time including the re-tooling required to work on it myself. Alas, it's way out of my price range and I can't bring myself to buy a third tier groupset (Chorus) instead of either Red or DA at the same(ish) price point.

Think I need to test ride a Red equipped bike to see if I could live with it

[itsnotarace]

That frame is way too small for you given the stack height

[itsnotarace]

Hmm thats odd given then saddle setback and stem angle