The competition between SRAM and Shimano in the road bike group set market is fierce, with both companies constantly innovating and updating their products. The recent updates to the SRAM Force and Shimano Ultegra group sets have only intensified this competition, leading cyclists to compare the two head to head.

One of the key factors that cyclists may consider when choosing between the two group sets is weight. Shimano’s Ultegra R8100 with a power meter is claimed to be 2763 grams, while SRAM’s Force AXS with a power meter is claimed to be 2896 grams, making Shimano the winner in this category. However, it’s important to note that claimed weights may not always reflect actual weights. Cyclists who prioritize weight may want to consider a more accurate weight measurement before making a decision.

Price is another important factor to consider when choosing between the two group sets. SRAM’s Force AXS group set is significantly cheaper than Shimano’s Ultegra R8100, with a price difference of £648. However, it’s important to consider the maintenance costs of the two group sets as well. SRAM’s group set has wearable parts that need to be replaced more frequently than Shimano’s, leading to higher maintenance costs over time. Additionally, when looking at bikes with these group sets, it’s fair to expect Force-built bikes to be more expensive than Ultegra ones.

Practicality is also an important consideration when choosing a group set. Both SRAM and Shimano’s group sets are electronic, which means that they require batteries to be recharged. SRAM’s Force group set makes battery recharging very easy, with batteries that can be popped off the derailleur and into a charging block. The new docks created by SRAM also make charging faster than ever before, and they have a multi-battery charger so that multiple batteries can be charged at once. On the other hand, Shimano requires the entire bike to be brought to a power source to recharge the battery via cable, which is less convenient.

Braking is another important factor to consider when choosing a group set, and Shimano takes the lead in this category with its new Servo Wave technology. This technology provides effortless braking power, and the amount of control modulation that the cyclist has is remarkable. It sets Shimano’s group sets apart from others in their range, where more force is required to achieve the same level of power. SRAM’s braking technology is not as advanced, and they did not make any claims to updating their braking technology for this new iteration of Force.

Shifting speed is another important factor to consider when choosing a group set. Both SRAM and Shimano’s group sets are smooth and silent, with near-instant motor response. However, Shimano takes the lead with its almost instantaneous motor response when shifting the front Mech. SRAM has a noticeable gap between pressing both paddles to initiate the shift, hearing the motor start to move, and feeling the change of cadence in your legs, which takes a few extra milliseconds. When shifting the rear derailleur, SRAM is slightly faster than Shimano, but the difference is negligible.

Aesthetics is another factor to consider when choosing a group set. SRAM’s Force components look better overall, but Shimano’s Ultegra hoods are more comfortable, with a natural shape and size shift paddles that don’t limit aggressive riding positions. The space behind the brake levers is also more generous on Shimano’s group set, allowing cyclists to tuck up and ride aggressively. Additionally, the reservoirs can be cut from the side, making it more comfortable to hold.

Ultimately, both group sets have their strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to the cyclist to decide what their priorities are. For the author, Shimano’s braking and shifting performance, coupled with the ergonomics, make the compromises on practicality and price worth it. However, the reader may have a different conclusion.

Overall, both the SRAM Force and Shimano Ultegra R8100 group sets are closely matched, and the differences may come down to personal preferences and priorities. Cyclists should consider weight, price, practicality, braking, shifting speed, aesthetics, features, and gearing when choosing a group set.

It all comes down to a matter of personal preference, both are high quality group sets that will deliver years of riding enjoyment