A bike groupset is a collection of bike components that doesn’t include the frame, stem, wheels, forks or handlebars. For example, a bike groupset will usually include gear shifters, brake levers and the brakes themselves. It will also often include the chain and other components which are essential for a working bike. Groupsets are often bought by people who’re looking to upgrade an old bike or build a new one from scratch. A large number of different manufacturers provide groupsets such as Shimano and SRAM. The latter manufacture both mountain and road bike groupsets.
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Along with the regular components which are included in a groupset some also include items such as seat posts and pedals. Not all bike groupsets come with these components so it’s important to check exactly what is included before you buy. Other components which are usually included include a cogset and bottom bracket. A groupset will also generally not include a saddle or tires – these have to be bought separately.
Generally a manufacturer will not build and provide whole groupsets. Instead, a customer in a bike retail shop can choose the components that he or she would like to buy and the total price is just the total cost of those components. This gives the customer more control over the exact components which he or she would like included in the groupset. The exception to this is if you’re planning on buying a special edition groupset which are often packaged by the manufacturers before they reach the retailers.
When buying a bike groupset you should keep in mind how much you want to pay, whether you’ll be using the bike for professional or casual riding and how many gears you require.
Bike Groupset Manufacturers
A number of different bike manufacturers make road and mountain bike groupsets. Here are a few of the most popular.
SRAM Groupsets
SRAM have a number of groupsets available. The first two were the SRAM Force and Red groupsets which were originally aimed at racing bikes and were in direct competition with other manufacturers. There are also SRAM Rival and Apex groupsets available – the latter is aimed at beginners rather than professional riders.
Shimano
Shimano are perhaps the most popular manufacturer of bike groupsets and have a wider range of options compared to SRAM. For example the Shimano Dura-Ace 7900 groupset and Sora groupset are two potential options.
Campagnolo
Campagnolo groupsets are also popular. For example, the Super Record groupset which comes with 11 sprockets is one in the company's range. The Campagnolo Centaur groupset is another option to consider. Many of these groupsets can be found online for discounted prices if you take the time to look through the various options.