The SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 groupset offers exceptional value, with several reviewers noting it performs comparably to Shimano 105 at a fraction of the cost. While shifting is generally reliable and components are lightweight, the groupset has notable drawbacks including heavy cranksets, poor stock brakes, and setup difficulties.
Pros
- Lightweight shifters and derailleurs compared to Shimano 105.12
- Shifting is crisp and reliable after proper setup, with positive clicks.34
- Front derailleur shifts quickly and has trimming capability.34
- Good ergonomics for shifters, with comfortable hoods and reach adjustment.34
- Excellent value for money, offering 12-speed at a budget price.314
- Wide gear range (50/34 front, 11-34 rear) suitable for various terrain.34
- Carbon fiber components (shifters, rear derailleur cage) contribute to weight savings.14
- Cassette is durable and fits standard Shimano freehubs.3
- YBN chain performed well without issues.3
Cons
- Stock cable-actuated disc brakes are poor, spongy, and lack stopping power.342
- Cannot brake and shift simultaneously due to single-lever design.142
- Long lever throw for shifting, which can cause wrist discomfort.12
- Setup and tuning are difficult, especially cable routing on rear derailleur and indexing.14
- Crankset is heavy and appears low quality, with stamped steel chainrings lacking ramps.2
- Front derailleur shifting is laggy and slow, especially under load.2
- Quality control issues: hood material inconsistency, rough casting, scuffed paint.32
- Cable stretch requires re-tensioning after initial use.4
Key Facts
- Shifters weigh 410g per pair, 90g lighter than Shimano 105's 500g.1
- Rear derailleur weighs 195g, 30g lighter than Shimano 105.1
- Cassette weighs 224g (11-28T), significantly lighter than Shimano 105's 330-360g.2
- Crankset weighs 1035g, much heavier than Shimano 105 compact's 716g.2
- Groupset costs approximately £310 or $193, about half the price of Shimano 105.32
- Crankset uses SRAM DUB bottom bracket standard (24mm spindle).32
- Cassette fits Shimano HG freehub.3
- Shifters have lever reach adjustment.31
Reviews & Ratings
18:39The reviewer provides a first impressions unboxing and analysis of the SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 speed groupset. They note that the shifters and derailleurs look promising, with carbon-effect levers and a light weight. However, they express concerns about the crankset being heavy and low quality, and the cable-actuated disc brakes being subpar. Overall, the groupset offers good value for the price but has some compromises.
10:49The reviewer tests the SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 Speed groupset from AliExpress, finding it functional but with notable compromises. The shifting is intuitive but has a long lever throw, making simultaneous braking and shifting difficult. Front derailleur shifting is sluggish and requires backing off power, especially under load. The mechanical disc brakes are underwhelming, with lever pull reaching the handlebars during an emergency stop. The groupset is lightweight overall, but the crankset is heavy, and the cassette appears decently made.
12:56The reviewer tested the SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 speed groupset over three months of commuting. They found the shifters ergonomic but short, with crisp shifting and a loud click. The front derailleur shifts quickly, and the rear derailleur performs well after proper setup. The crankset is lightweight and looks good. However, they noted issues with simultaneous braking and shifting, setup difficulty, and a rear derailleur alignment problem when switching chainrings. The brakes included are poor and should be replaced. Overall, the groupset is recommended for commuting due to its low cost, light weight, and wide gear range, but it may not be as robust as Shimano 105.
13:43The reviewer, Diwa from Wiser Biker, tested the Sensah Empire Pro groupset for over a year and 2,000 km. He found it to be a lightweight, affordable 2x12 speed groupset with carbon fiber components, offering good value compared to Shimano 105, but noted some issues with shifting lever throw and difficulty in tuning.
14:00The reviewer tested the SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 speed groupset over a thousand miles, including a ride through Europe. They found the groupset to be good value, comparable to mechanical 105, with reliable shifting and comfortable ergonomics, but noted issues with the stock brakes and some quality inconsistencies.
Where to Buy
SENSAH EMPIRE PRO 2x12 Speed, 24s Road Groupset carbon fiber Shifter Lever Rear Derailleur 12 chain 170/175MM Crankset
Specifications
Attributes
Included Components
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