I'm often asked this question by cyclists and triathletes about to purchase a new bike. (Note: A step back for non-riders-unlike the bikes sold at Toys R Us, REI, Sports Authority, and other general sporting goods stores, specialty bike shops allow for picking/choosing various parts and accessories to add to the bike frame. The most important decision relates to the gearing/shifting/drive-train mechanisms as these parts along with human power make the bike go (and stop). "Dura Ace" is the Japanese manufacturer Shimano's top-of-the-line group. "Ultegra" is considered a notch down in quality...but is it? Typically the conversation goes something like this:

Q: So I'm looking at dropping $1500 to $3000 on a new bike and I'm wondering whether to save some money and go with a Shimano Ultegra group or spend the extra $800 and go all out on Dura Ace?

A: Obviously, if cost is not an issue for you, then go with Dura Ace. It is a better product. But, if cost isn't an issue why aren't you looking at a $10,000 Pinarello, Colnago, or BMC? $800 (DA runs about $1700 and Ultegra $900) is a lot of money to most riders - especially when there are always other cool bike accessories to spend cash on: Better wheels, aerobars, sadde...or even plane and hotel fare for your next event.

Despite the many marketing claims of superiority, the primary difference between Dura Ace and Ultegra is weight. The DA group weighs approximately 300 grams less than Ultegra. About the same weight as a roll of quarters or a box of dozen donuts (if the latter is more familiar to you, ease up on the Long Johns).

Even if we give Shimano the benefit of the doubt that the drivetrain shifts a bit smoother than Ultegra, I simply disagree that the upgrade to DA is worth $800 for those on a budget. A half-pound of weight is miniscule on a percentage basis when considering the overall weight of the bike and even smaller still when including the rider's weight. A rider of 130 lbs. plus a bike that weighs 15 lbs. means that the half-pound of added weight comprises only a third of a percent (i.e., less than one percent) weight differential. Obviously, the weight differential decreases even more for heavier riders-in both cases, an insignificant and unnoticeable amount.

Q: But what about DA's functionality - won't it shift easier and help me go faster?

A: I continue to ride bikes with both set ups and it's very difficult for me to appreciate the difference when I shift, brake, pedal, etc. I'm sure there is a slight difference, but while riding, the hundredths-of-seconds while shifting and the ease of pedaling is imperceptible to me. I don't believe you'll notice a difference either. And look at it this way, if you beat your buddies to the top of a climb, you can always rub it in a little more by exclaiming that you did it with "inferior" components!