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Old June 11th 10, 02:18 AM posted to rec.bicycles.tech
Jay Beattie
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Posts: 4,322
Default 9 sp HG cassette vs. Ultegra cassette

On Jun 10, 4:48*pm, bcdrums wrote:
The next time I replace my chain I will replace my 9 speed cassette too,
it's looking worn. I have a Shimano 13-25 cassette now, will replace it
with a 14-25 (which adds a midrange 18T between 17T & 19T).

This cassette seems to be available in two models, a HG-50 for $31, and
an Ultegra for $96. The two cassettes are almost identical in weight,
only a 2g difference and are identical in cog configuration. For me, it
seems the obvious choice is the HG at $31. It is hard to believe that
the HG Ultegra will last three times longer than the HG, or shift three
times better. Is there something I am missing?

The cassette will go onto an Ultegra hub that is about 5 years old. Is
there any compatibility issue?


Yes, you missed a smoking (in store) sale at Performance. I just got
two Ultegra cassettes for $39 each. I see 270g for the Tiagra (HG-50)
versus 217g for the Ultegra at the REI site, but it is not clear which
gear range is being weighed. I saved probably 50+ grams which means I
am going to go really, really fast now! (particularly if I remember to
take the spare change out of my pockets and ride on the drops).

I would not in a million years pay full retail for Ultegra. Tiagra is
fine, although it probably has a slightly different carrier, plastic
spacers and poorer finish (unnoticeable after 12.3 miles). You would
have to be a real princess and the pea person to notice a difference
in shifting. In my opinion, your only reasonable option is the
Tiagra. I only got the Ultegras because (1) they were on sale at
Performance, and (2) they were on sale at Performance, and there was
nothing cheaper in the store in my preferred gear range. -- Jay
Beattie.
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