The LTWOO groupset offers exceptional value with reliable hydraulic disc brakes and functional shifting, though it requires careful setup and adjustment to approach Shimano-level performance.
Pros
- Exceptional value for money (typically £110-£160)
- Hydraulic disc brakes perform very well with ceramic pistons
- Includes all necessary components for complete installation
- Good build quality with replaceable jockey wheels and derailleur cage
Cons
- Shifting feel less refined than Shimano with occasional missed shifts during multi-shifting
- Shifter mounting screw placement is awkward behind the hood
- Requires proprietary mounting adapters for calipers with potential fitment issues
- Bleeding process is trickier due to non-standard thread sizes and recessed ports
Key Facts
- Mechanical 11-speed shifting with hydraulic disc brakes
- Weighs 939g (similar to Shimano 105 equivalent)
- Uses mineral oil hydraulic system (not DOT fluid)
Reviews & Ratings
The reviewer discusses the LTWOO (referred to as 'L2' or 'L2 group set') R9 disc groupset, which they state costs 108 quid on AliExpress. They explain that while cheaper groupsets like this are rarely as good as Shimano equivalents out of the box, with specific tweaks they can come incredibly close to Shimano levels of performance. The video is dedicated to sharing tips for improving the performance of this and similar budget groupsets. The tips cover mechanical shifting, cable routing, component wear, shifter rattle, and the specific process for bleeding the hydraulic brakes, including unique features like a grub screw on the brake lever. The reviewer also mentions that newer LTWOO groupsets have a tension adjustment screw on the front derailleur.
AI Summary
Pros
- Can come incredibly close to Shimano levels of performance with a few tweaks.
- Very low cost (108 quid on AliExpress).
- Uses mineral oil for brakes (not DOT fluid).
more pros in the video
Cons
- Out of the box, it is rarely as good as Shimano equivalents.
- Shifting can feel vague or mushy compared to Shimano due to tolerances and return springs.
- The rear derailleurs use a slightly older, more dated design with a standard hanger bolt (not a B-link).
more cons in the video
Key Points
- Cost: 108 quid on AliExpress.
- Type: Mechanical shifting, hydraulic disc brake groupset.
- Brake Fluid: Uses mineral oil.
more key points in the video
The reviewer discusses the LTWOO R9 Disc groupset extensively, highlighting its exceptional value as an alternative to Shimano's 105 groupset. They note it offers hydraulic disc brakes and 11-speed functionality at a fraction of Shimano's price (around £140). The reviewer praises the braking performance as 'absolutely fantastic' and mentions good build quality with features like ceramic brake pistons and replaceable jockey wheels. However, they critique the shifting performance as being slightly inferior to Shimano's, particularly in feel and multi-shift reliability, though this improves significantly when modifying the cable routing. The reviewer concludes it's an excellent value proposition despite minor shortcomings.
AI Summary
Pros
- Exceptional value for money (around £140 for full groupset)
- Hydraulic disc brakes perform 'absolutely fantastic'
- Good build quality with nice finish
more pros in the video
Cons
- Shifting feel not as refined as Shimano
- Downshift lever action is heavier than Shimano
- Occasional missed shifts when multi-shifting in big ring
more cons in the video
Key Points
- 11-speed mechanical shifting with hydraulic brakes
- Campagnolo-style thumb shifters
- Weighs 939g (similar to equivalent 105 groupset)
more key points in the video
The reviewer states that the LTWOO R9 Disc groupset is a fantastic option for its unrivaled value. They have used it for well over a year and thousands of miles with zero problems, praising its ergonomics, hydraulic disc brakes, and spot-on shifting.
AI Summary
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Ergonomics are nice
- Hydraulic disc brakes are great
more pros in the video
Cons
- Not quite as good as mechanical Shimano 105
- Initial concern about the plastic shift lever potentially snapping (though this did not happen)
Key Points
- Mechanical 11-speed
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Price fluctuates but is around £110
more key points in the video
The reviewer briefly mentions the LTWOO RX / R9 Disc 2x12s / 2x11s Road Hydraulic Disc Brake Groupset, 6 kit, Benchmark R7170 R8170 but does not provide detailed analysis.
AI Summary
The reviewer discusses the LTWOO R9 2x11 speed hydraulic disc brake groupset used in a gravel bike build for their son. They mention it's their first time using a budget Chinese groupset from LTWOO and their first experience with hydraulic disc brakes. The groupset arrived well-packed without its original box (a cost-saving measure), and includes shifters, front/rear derailleurs, brake calipers, and hoses. The reviewer notes the brakes came pre-filled with mineral oil and had hoses already terminated into the calipers. Installation required some adjustments, particularly with the shifter mounting screws being awkwardly placed behind the hoods. The reviewer successfully installed and bled the brakes, finding the process less difficult than anticipated.
AI Summary
Pros
- Budget-friendly Chinese alternative
- Arrived well-packed despite no original box
- Includes all necessary components (shifters, derailleurs, calipers, hoses)
more pros in the video
Cons
- Shifter mounting screw placement is awkward (behind hood)
- Initial difficulty tightening shifters due to screw placement
- Requires some movement of shifters during hose installation
more cons in the video
Key Points
- 2x11 speed hydraulic disc brake groupset
- Cost £160 from AliExpress
- Includes shifters, front/rear derailleurs, brake calipers, and hoses
more key points in the video
Where to Buy
LTWOO RX / R9 Disc 2x12s / 2x11s Road Hydraulic Disc Brake Groupset, 6 kit, Benchmark R7170 R8170
LTWOO RX / R9 Disc 2x12s / 2x11s Road Hydraulic Disc Brake Groupset, 6 kit, Benchmark R7170 R8170
Specifications
Attributes
Spotted an error in the specs? Help us correct it — sign in or create an account.
Questions about LTWOO RX / R9 Disc 2x12s / 2x11s Road Hydraulic Disc Brake Groupset, 6 kit, Benchmark R7170 R8170
Sign up and share your experience — help other riders decide!
Create Account & Review