Episode 88 celebrates Dane's 25th episode and features an in-depth discussion between shop owner Dane and rider Josh about the pros and cons of electronic bike components versus traditional mechanical systems. The hosts examine the substantial price difference between electronic and mechanical groupsets – with electronic options typically costing twice as much – while breaking down exactly what riders get for their investment. From SRAM's wireless transmission systems to Shimano's Di2 technology, the episode covers how electronic shifting provides more precise gear changes, eliminates cable degradation issues, and significantly improves shift quality under load.
Despite the performance advantages, the hosts also candidly discuss potential drawbacks including battery management, lithium-ion safety considerations, and compatibility issues. The conversation includes valuable insights about how brands differ in their implementation of electronic systems, with Shimano focusing on consistent shift quality across price points while SRAM delivers noticeable performance improvements as you move up their product range. The hosts also tease upcoming technology innovations including Shimano's anticipated wireless systems and SRAM's mechanical transmission option that aims to deliver many of the benefits of electronic shifting at a more accessible price point.
Some links to accompany this episode...
Shimano MTB Components (Acoustic)
https://mtb.shimano.com/us/products/mtb/
SRAM MTB Components (Electronic & Acoustic)
https://www.sram.com/en/sram/mountain
PinkBike Video: Broken On Live TV: The Untold Story of Pivot’s New Phoenix DH Bike
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNinULVRHcU
Torque’ng got your down? Here’s an article about bikes + torque + tools.
https://bike.bikegremlin.com/18208/tightening-torque-and-torque-wrenches-explained-101/
Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites
Socials
Instagram
Facebook
Email
mountaincog@gmail.com
