The rear derailleur moves the chain from one to the other of the freewheel gears located on the hub of a bicycle's rear wheel. Precise shifting is dependent, amongst other things, on the quality of the rear derailleur.
The Shimano Ultegra rear derailleur is a high quality component of the Ultegra group - just one level below the Shimano Dura Ace, used by professional road racers in events such as the Tour de Flanders, Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France.
The Ultegra derailleur is identical in weight to the Dura Ace (215g) and is more cost effective. The primary difference between these two top Shimano rear derailleurs is that Dura Ace has seals on two pulleys and is cold-forged - allegedly for greater durability.
I have used Ultegra components on all my road bikes, both in double and triple. On the average I ride 500 miles per month, sometimes more. I have never had a problem with the Ultegra derailleur - it has functioned flawlessly throughout (which is more than I can say for other parts on my bikes!).
If you are a recreational rider or participate in the occasional crit the Ultegra rear derailleur will be more than sufficient in terms of performance and reliability.
Professional riders who make their living through sponsors may have reason to consider Dura-Ace or Campy Record. For the rest of us mortals Shimano Ultegra will more than suffice in any possible road adventure.
Specs:
215g (SS)
9-speed, same geometry as Dura-Ace
Advanced Light Action
11T pulleys for increased durability
Ceramic bearing guide pulley
Ball bearing tension pulley
li 215g SS li 9-speed, same geometry as Dura-Ace li Advanced Light Action li 11T pulleys for increased durability li Ceramic bearing guide pulley li B...More at eBay
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