I’m looking to build up a frame but am surprised by the list prices for group sets. Considering the price of complete bikes, I’m now realizing how much of a discount the big brands are able to get from SRAM and Shimano.
So I’m wondering what are some good sources (I’m in the US) for getting a deal on components? Do you scrounge EBay or Facebook marketplace? Jenson and Performance Bikes? Other back corners of the Internet? Thanks!
A few pieces of advice here:
Your big decision is, do you wan to buy a recently launched group set, which will be supported for years, or bargain hunt for the last big thing, but maybe struggle to get parts in a couple of years.
In the UK there are brilliant discounts on 12 Speed Di2, but how much longer will there be shifters in stock once the 13 speed stuff drops?
Most of my fleet is on 11 Speed Mechanical, shifters are getting hard to get hold of, still short cage mechs are still about, but not medium cage, cranks yes, if you want 175mm etc.
A genuine option is to buy a discounted bike with the group set of your dreams on it, and sell the frame, but no guarantee you’ll save money, bikes that have not sold are not the ones people want.
If you are looking at new groupsets, please don’t discount your local shop or independent mechanic.
I’m in the UK and can often beat or at least match the deals offered by online shops for full groupsets, with often more customised options available for crank length, no upcharge for bigger cassettes etc.
Thanks All, lots of good suggestions to consider!
One other path to consider is buying a complete bike to use the as a donor. Pull the parts, build up your frame, then sell the donor frame and bits.
I’ve bought a lot of new components off of Pinkbike, you can find plenty of new takeoff groups on there. Also Bike Tires Direct. The EC discount doesn’t usually work on groupsets, but it does most of the time on individual components. They also run sales pretty frequently, 25% off SRAM, Shimano, etc.
This is a great selling point for the Escape Member Benefits… Bike Tires Direct and Mikes Bikes are on there, with 20% off coupons.
I’m also looking at building a bike soon and have been able to source all the parts from those stores. Obviously, I’m looking for even better deals, but at least you know there is a minimum 20% off with those retailers.
My local bikeshop quoted a $1000US more on Ultegra Di2 without cranks (online had cranks). That was the absolute best they could do and I believed them.
Wait for Black Friday sales. I’m aiming for 25 percent off.
I’ve just done a quick comparison on prices.
Merlin, a popular online UK retailer is selling Ultegra 12sp Di2, with rotors, for £1,135 delivered. Parts come in unbranded cardboard boxes or platic bags, delivery is typically 2-3 days (can pay extra to get it quicker).
The same groupset from the UK distributor for Shimano, is >£100 cheaper with tax, delivery next day and all parts are in Shimano packaging.
105 Di2 is a smaller ££ difference, Dura-Ace Di2 a bigger ££ difference.
In recently months there was also an additional offer on 105, Ultegra or DA 12sp Di2 groupset purchases where the matching level pedals were includes in that price.
I’ve purchased a few Shimano groups from eurobikeparts.com
There’s no sales tax in most of the US and there are often discount codes. It’s a small operation, you can email the owner if the combination you want isn’t available on the website.