Which is the better system and which would/do you use?

Question

I'm debating between the SRAM X.0 and the Shimano XTR sets. I've used both in the past but never the X.0 or the XTR and want to upgrade to "top of the line stuff". I do mostly trail/all mountain riding with a little bit of jumping and XC. I am currently using a Banshee Scirocco Frame with a Maz. AM2. up front, etc. Which do you think is better? Which do you use?

Answer 1

SRAM has been mainstream long enough (10+ years) that I don't think they can be considered a relative newbie anymore.

I currently ride with SRAM X.0, and it's every bit as good as advertised. My last bike had XTR (albeit not the NEW XTR) and I never had a problem with it. It would be hard for me to tell you NOT to get one or the other, because they both perform to above excellent standards.

However, I'm going to tell you NOT to get either, and here's why:

You said you do mostly trail/all mountain with some jumping and XC. I do mostly singletrack/XC, so the abuse on my bike is less than the abuse on your bike. The kind of riding you do leaves you more prone to break parts, or simply to wear them out quicker. For that reason, I'm going to recommend you stay away from "top of the line" components like XTR and X.0 and, instead, go with something like Shimano XT. You are going to notice little to no performance or weight difference between XT and XTR/X.0, but when/if something breaks, you won't be emptying your wallet to replace parts.

If you're anything like me, you'd rather be spending your money on your post-ride grub than shelling out extra cash for a derailleur that will save you about the weight of 9 poker chips.

However, if I haven't convinced you...
I think X.0 "feels" a little more workhorse.
I think XTR "feels" smoother shifting.
Best advice I have, if you really really want to get one of these, is to go to a local shop, pick out a bike with each, and test ride each bike for about 15 minutes. Just use the components. It's like shoes...you'll KNOW which one feels right to you.

Answer 2

Tejualaj... (sorry, your nick only shows that) has nailed it right on.

I think that this year's X.9 was last year X.0 or something like that. Maybe save some money to replace your fork, maybe that will be a lot more noticeable.

I don't know which setup you currently have, but if you have Shimano, and go for SRAM you will need to replace the shifters (or viceversa).

Answer 3

Shimano is the 500lb gorilla, and Sram is the ( relative ) newbie. Not much difference in their products or performance.