When it comes to bike groupsets (simply put, the gears and brakes on your bike), Shimano is at the head of the pack.
While SRAM and Campagnolo sit alongside them, Shimano is the most widely used of the three. One of the best things about Shimano is its offering for all ranges of the bike.
From the premium Ultegra and Dura-Ace groupsets to the entry-level Claris and Tourney groupsets, they have something for everyone.
Here, we’ll compare two of their most popular groupsets, Tiagra and Sora, and highlight the differences between them.
Shimano’s entry-level groupsets
Tiagra and Sora sit in the entry-level Shimano range, alongside Claris and Tourney.
Generally speaking, the Sora groupset is often found on lower-end bikes and is a 9-speed groupset, available in both standard double and wide-range triple cranksets.
Tiagra is the next step up in the range, offering a 10-speed more similar to the mid-range 105 groupset.
The Tiagra, however, has one-piece brake pads instead of higher quality brake cartridges.
This year, the Tiagra groupset added its own hydraulic brakes and levers, making it more similar to the 105.
Both groupsets are described by Shimano themselves as sitting in the endurance and fitness categories, rather than competitive riding and time-trials or triathlons.
Shimano Sora
Starting with the Shimano Sora, this groupset is described by the company as being pitched towards sports and fitness cyclists. Since its latest upgrade, there have been a number of big improvements to improve performance.
Better dual-pivot disc brakes and the opportunity to use a wide-ranging 11-34t cassette bring it closer to it’s more expensive counterparts.
The design has also been updated to ensure a smarter finish, with internal cabling available to make sure wires are kept tidy and a four-arm chainset keeping it up to date.
The big differences between more expensive options and the Sora are the non-changing 9-speed (the number of gears available), and the additional weight compared to more premium versions.
However, Sora maintains its reputation as a reliable groupset offering good performance.
Features include:
- A reliable and robust 9-speed groupset.
- The technology adopted from higher level groupsets.
- Dual Control gear shifters, with the brake lever changing down the cassette and the smaller lever changing to a higher gear.
- Double and triple chainset options.
- The rear derailleur will accommodate an 11-32t cassette along with a 50/34t compact chainset.
Shimano Tiagra
The Shimano Tiagra groupset has evolved in recent years, bringing it closer in-line to the 105 groupsets. Traditionally, the Tiagra was seen as the starting point for road biking.
However, with the introduction of a 10-speed Tiagra, it’s become a more popular road biking option. Saying that it’s overall performance still falls short of the 105 and the premium Ultegra and Dura-Ace groupsets.
The new Tiagra changes made it look more similar to the 105, with the same four-arm crankset and shifter, with the hidden gear and brake cables.
Tiagra’s 10-speed is the major difference between it and the higher versions. Additionally, there’s no 53/39t chainset option either.
The logic behind that move is Shimano doubts anyone will be using a Tiagra groupset for competitive racing so they won’t need the higher gears.
The Tiagra does offer 52/36t, 50/34t and 50/39/30t triple chainset options though, so still provides plenty of options.
Features include:
- 10-speed groupset with wider frame compatibility.
- Includes technology from Dura-Ace.
- 30% increase in brake power.
- Hydraulic STI units with a better lever shape and improved shifting.
- An abundance of chainset options, from 52-36t to 46-34t, to suit all abilities. Additionally, there’s a triple-option of 50-39-30t.
- Dual-pivot rim brakes, or Tiagra hydraulic disc brakes.
Summary
In my experience, the shifters on the Sora are slightly unwieldy, making the Tiagra a better option.
Particularly with the Tiagra moving closer towards the 105 groupsets, the gear changes are slicker and the overall performance slightly better.
Essentially, the Tiagra is a better option if you want a slightly lighter and quicker groupset.
If you want a mix of performance and value, opt for the Sora. If you are looking for more performance (without having an 11-speed groupset), opt for the Tiagra.
Founder of Vivi Nation, the cycling, running and active living brand. Chris is a sports enthusiast, occasional triathlete and experienced cyclist, having led multiple cycle tours across Europe.
