Trace Velo - Possibly the best value groupset in existence!

Description

This 2x11 hydraulic groupset from AliExpress cost me just £117! But is it worth it, and how does it stack up against the ubiquitous Shimano 105?

SIROKO CLOTHING – 10% off (automatically applied via link below): https://srko.co/tracevelo

L-TWOO have been manufacturing groupsets since 2013, and their current generation of hydraulic groupsets with mechanical shifting have been on sale for a few years. However their recently updated R9 Disc might be the best value road bike groupset I have ever purchased!

It came with both shifters, hydraulic brake lines and cables, front and rear derailleurs, both brake calipers, and a whole host of mounting hardware in the box for just £117! I was absolutely blown away by the value.

It was simple to install, easy to bleed the brakes, and looks fantastic on the bike. The braking performance is absolutely incredible, easily some of the best braking from a hydraulic groupset that I’ve experienced, and the overall fit and finish is very high. The materials used and the included features don't scream cheap and budget.

The shifting is also fantastic, although i did face a slight issue with my choice of cable routing for the rear derailleur.

All in all an absolutely FANTASTIC groupset for the money. It doesn't quite match up to 105 for shifting feel and performance, but for less than half the price, it’s a no-brainer in my opinion.

Aliexpress affiliate link to the official L-TWOO seller I used:
R9 Disc groupset - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DB1C3jT

Timestamps:
00:00 – Start
00:47 – Overview and cost
02:43 – Weight & installation
05:04 – Siroko sponsor
05:53 – Braking and shifting performance
10:11 – Ergonomics, build quality, & updates
12:52 – Other specifications and durability
14:31 – Conclusion
15:28 – Bonus clip - Shifting improvements

Intro roll:
Created by Dev Joshi - http://www.go2dev.co.uk

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tracevelo/

Email:
tracevelouk@gmail.com

Please note:
I am not a professionally trained bike mechanic. There can be risks associated with using products that are unbranded, untested, or come from sources where the provenance is unknown. Please talk to a qualified bike mechanic if you are in any doubt.

In essence, be careful, do your research, and cycle safe!!!

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Bike part mentions in this video

LTWOO RX / R9 Disc 2x12s / 2x11s Road Hydraulic Disc Brake Groupset, 6 kit, Benchmark R7170 R8170

Created: September 20, 2024

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
  • Ceramic brake pistons for better heat dissipation
  • Replaceable jockey wheels and derailleur cage
  • Uses Shimano BH59 standard for hoses/fittings
  • Front derailleur has built-in barrel adjuster
  • Includes quality polished gear cables
  • Improved shifting after cable routing modification
  • Brake calipers are high quality with good machining

Cons

  • Shifting feel not as refined as Shimano
  • Downshift lever action is heavier than Shimano
  • Occasional missed shifts when multi-shifting in big ring
  • Shifter clicks less tactile than Shimano
  • Requires proprietary mounting adapters for calipers
  • Some frames may have fitment issues with adapters
  • Front derailleur shifting not as good as Shimano 105

Key Points

  • 11-speed mechanical shifting with hydraulic brakes
  • Campagnolo-style thumb shifters
  • Weighs 939g (similar to equivalent 105 groupset)
  • Uses Shimano cable pull ratios (compatible with Shimano derailleurs)
  • Includes ceramic/copper brake pads
  • Updated version fixes previous shifter rattle issues
  • Improved freestroke adjustment mechanism
  • Shifting improves dramatically with full-length cable housing
AFFILIATE by MyBikePartsACTIVE
aliexpress.com
🇺🇸
$217.92
Last checked:
9 months
ago
AFFILIATE by MyBikePartsACTIVE
aliexpress.com
🇺🇸
$217.92
🇫🇷
€130.69
🇬🇧
£96.23
Rating there:
4.8 (18 reviews)
Last checked:
9 months
ago