Whether you own an MTB or an eBike, derailleurs significantly increase the efficiency of your bicycle’s gear system.
There are multiple groupsets available on the market. Still, every true cyclist knows that Shimano Acera or Altus derailleur and groupsets are the best ones.
But, there’s always confusion between Shimano Acera vs Altus groupset and which one is better. Since both of them have similar bicycle components yet very varied features.
So in this article, you will see which is better Shimano Altus or Acera, some major differences between their derailleurs, a review of their groupsets, and much more.
What is a Groupset? Basic Terms Explained
To start with, a groupset is nothing but a combination of all the components that make up the whole mechanism system of a geared bicycle or bike. It includes everything from gears to brakes.
A Groupset is quite essential for the overall functioning of a gear cycle. Usually, bikes do come with pre-attached components but if you want to increase the efficiency of your bike, it is advisable to get a complete set. These are my best recommendations – Check price on Amazon
Let’s see what all components a groupset includes and how they help in enhancing your riding experience:
1. Derailleurs
These are one of the key components of a groupset. Derailleurs are not only essential for your bikes but also ensure a safe ride for you. The usual mechanism of derailleurs is to change gears by moving chains from one socket to another.
Derailleurs use tension from the cable which is pulled and fixed to the front or rear wheels of your bike. From drop chains to electronic chains, we suggest that such models are best as they provide a much smoother ride.
2. Brakes and Shifters
These are a must to consider for a group setting. Well, for brakes it is obvious to mention that they the most important parts, so you must never hesitate to invest in good quality brake sets.
Whereas, the role of the shifters is to change gears. These are installed just below the brake levers. Usually, there are two kinds of shifters, a grip shifter (works with a twisting motion) or a trigger/thumb shifter (works with a pressed-down motion).
3. Gears
Even though nowadays every bike comes with an obvious choice of gear, it is not mandatory for every rider. However, when you do have gears, it is very important to know the proper usage and maintenance of those. Routine cleaning and greasing of the inner cable along with front and rear mechanics is a must.
Shimano Acera vs Altus Components: Major Difference
These groupsets have pretty much the same components from derailleurs, cranksets, shifters, bottom brackets, and so on. However, the major difference between shimano acera vs altus groupset falls in the performance quality of each of these components based on various factors such as terrain, gear speed range, usage purpose, and much more.
So let us find which is better, Shimano Acera or Altus Components by reviewing each part:
| COMPONENTS | Shimano Altus Groupset | Shimano Acera Groupset |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Gears | The Altus gears are quite functioning but they are not designed for any kind of off-roading. However, it is a very good option for road rides. | Shimano Acera gears are pretty good for trail rides. Hence, it is suitable for MTBs. |
| 2. Shifters | The Altus shifters are not as flexible since they work with just certain kinds of bikes. Moreover, they have a two-way release pattern with an optical display for gears. | Acera shifters are way more suitable for a variety of bikes. The well-mechanized build provides a very comfortable experience. The low-friction element does add extra credit to it. |
| 3. Brake Levers | The Shimano Altus brake levers are more durable and can be found on many bikes. They have a very safe and trusted design with immediate braking. | The Acera braking levers are not as impactful as the Altus ones. However, they are available in both disc and hydraulic systems. |
| 4. Front Derailleurs | The Altus front derailleurs perform the best on 2*8 speed MTBs. They are very easy to install. The dual-pull design allows it to be fired either top or bottom pull, which is a major plus point. | The acera front derailleurs are comparatively smoother to handle. Most cyclists prefer to upgrade their original derailleurs to these. However, the installation is complex and can not be done without the experience. |
| 5. Rear Derailleurs | These Altus rear derailleurs are perfect if you are looking for wheels less than 24 inches. They work quite smoothly but the lasting quality is very average. | The acera rear derailleurs work best for 7 to 8-speed range bikes. They are long-lasting. These have some pretty solid shifting features and always are good replacement options. |
| 6. Price | The Altus groupset components are comparatively cheaper than the Acera groupset. It is quite rare to get such effective components at this price. | The price range of acera groupsets goes comparatively higher but is still cheaper than the other options available in the market. Not to forget the quality of the components you get! |
From this detailed comparison, we can conclude a few summarised differences between Shimano Acera vs Altus Groupsets:
Shimano Acera Groupset:
- Can be a match for a variety of bikes.
- Worth the money.
- Still a model that is upgraded to a more efficient one each year.
Shimano Altus Groupset:
- Its components can be combined with the components of other groupsets.
- Altus have more gears than Acera.
- Brakes are less flexible compared to acera.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Difference Between Shimano Acera vs Altus Groupset
Q1. What is better Shimano Altus or Acera?
Both groupsets haver pretty much the same components and positioned at the same level but when it comes to choosing the best one from Shimano Altus or Acera then I think Acera performs better than Altus. They are highly preferred by mountain cyclists and as these are affordable, easy installation and gives better control.
Q2. Is the Shimano acera a good derailleur?
Yes, no doubt in this. Derailleur from shimano acera are light in weight and do not create so much problem. I can easily go for long rides with no issues.
Q3. Why are Groupsets so Expensive?
A groupset is made from so many different parts such as brakes, shifters, gears and derailleurs etc. And all are mean to optimise your performance and efficency, all of which should be manufactured with premium quality material and if you compromise on this then you would end up buying so many groupsets in 1 year. That is why they are expensive even they are affordable.
Final Verdict: Shimano Altus vs Acera Which One Should You Buy
Every cyclist wishes for a perfect groupset that serves them with the best combination of shifters, derailleurs, brake levers, and at the most affordable prices. Shimano groupsets do check the preferred boxes, but there’s always confusion between Altus vs Acera components.
While considering the performance of each component of the set over a period of time, it is often seen that the Shimano acera groupsets are preferred more.
Not only as groupsets but cyclists also love to upgrade their original components with the acera ones, especially the derailleurs!
Thanks for being with us till here. I hope your query is solved! If not, feel free to ask in the comment section below. Till then Stay tuned!
Keep Cycling!
