Choosing a good derailleur depends on several factors, including your type of cycling, your budget and your personal preferences. Here are some elements to take into account as well as a list of major brands, standards and specificities by practice:
Things to consider when choosing a derailleur:
1. Type of practice:
Determine whether you are into road cycling, mountain biking, city cycling, touring, etc., as derailleurs vary depending on the practice.
2. Performance level:
Choose a derailleur based on your skill level and performance requirements. Professional or advanced riders may prefer higher-end derailleurs for better precision and durability.
3. Compatibility:
Make sure the derailleur you choose is compatible with the other components of your drivetrain, like shifters, cassette, chain, and chainrings.
4. Budget:
Determine your budget and look for derailleurs that offer the best value in your price range.
5. Weight:
For weight-conscious riders, some high-end derailleurs offer a lighter design through the use of advanced materials and technologies.
Top brands of bicycle derailleurs:
1. Shimano:
Market leader, Shimano offers a wide range of derailleurs for all practices, from high-end to mid-range and entry-level.
2. SRAM:
Another top brand offering high quality derailleurs, often praised for their innovative technology and performance.
3. Campagnolo:
Present mainly in the field of road cycling, Campagnolo offers superior quality derailleurs, renowned for their precision and durability.
Standards and specificities by practice:
1. Road:
- Road derailleurs generally offer high precision and a fast, smooth transmission.
- Compact and dual gear groups are common for road bikes, offering a wide range of ratios for different types of terrain.
2. MTB (All-Terrain Bike):
- MTB derailleurs are designed to be robust and shock resistant.
- Gear groups are often larger to accommodate a variety of terrain, with rear derailleurs having up to 12 speeds.
3. City bike and electric bike:
- For city bikes and e-bikes, derailleurs may vary depending on manufacturer preference and bike specifications. Some may be designed for use with electrical transmission systems.
By choosing a quality derailleur adapted to your cycling practice and your specific needs, you can significantly improve the performance and enjoyment of your cycling experience.