How much difference is there between Shimano XT vs LX components anyway?

Question

Derailleurs, Bottom Brackets, Cranks, hubs, you name it, Shimano makes LX and XT varieties, and both are consider 'upper-line' products. But the cost differences are amazing! XT typically costs about twice what LX does, but is the increase really that great in terms of performance?

Answer 1

No,not really....I've been using LX components for quiet awhile now and it seems that it's performing even better than XT in numerous situations,of course not to mention the COST......I'm a Shimano fanatic,hopefully they will come out with a new '07 version of LX components in response to the XT and XTR advancements lately....

Answer 2

I think it is base on weight and material. XT is steel and LX is alluminum. If you have an alluminum frame, you need alluminum parts. Mixing steel and alluminum will create rust anywhere the two metals touch. I guess you can put a fiber washer between stuff.

I made a recumbent bike out of a steel muffler pipe. Heavy like an anvil. But discovered you can't use alluminum parts. You can, but stuff starts to rust in days.

The best thing about building stuff is finding neat stuff, like MBI FG5 bidiirectional bottom bracket. Pedal back... Pedal forward...All the same. I don't know if it is steel or alluminum... Need to find out.

Answer 3

i dont think the price difference is that much. the increase in performance isnt very substantial. its only a small percentage better. try www.jensonusa.com i think its only a matter of less than $50 upgrading from the LX to the XT. go for the XT if you can afford it. it just sounds better when you brag about your rig.

Answer 4

I don't think there's much, if any real, differences. In weight there is just a few grams, some components are the same mechanism but less weight. If you're budget minded, LX is pretty good.

The new XTR stuff is pretty nice, but waaaaay expensive..

Answer 5

XT is lighter than LX

Answer 6

i tore lx up pretty quick. ...xt lasts longer.