Shimano FC-R600 vs 105 compact chainset

[cjrich]

Hi all
need to replace the outer chainring on my R600 compact crankset. Is it worthwhile just buying the chainring, or replacing the whole chainset with 105 to match the rest of the bikes 105 components?

The R600 ring is around $70 but can get a 105 compact chainset for $135 plus delivery.

Anything else I'd need to consider if I take the upgrade option. I have 2009 Avanti Cadent 1.0 with press fit BB.

Thanks
CJ

[jasonc]

check the shaft on the R600 isn't worn. If it's worn, get the 105. The R600 shaft is made from a cheaper/softer material than the 105 and above

[MichaelB]

.... The R600 shaft is made from a cheaper/softer material than the 105 and above

Where did you get that from ? I find that to be hard to believe, but happy to be corrected with an authoritative source.

Back to the OP question.

The R series cranks were the infill before the compacts in the name series were released. Many attribute the R600 to be about Tiagra/105 and the R700 to be close to Ultegra.

If anything there will be a minimal weight difference, bit that is it.

[ozdavo]

As far as I know R600 does not have hollow arms, whereas 105 does. 105 is therefore slightly lighter & stiffer.

Your BB will work with any current shimano crank, but it might be a good time to replace it anyway.




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[cjrich]

Your BB will work with any current shimano crank, but it might be a good time to replace it anyway

Thanks, that answers my next question

The BB was replaced about 3000klm ago so should have a bit of life in it.

Cheers guys, think I'll go with the 105 chainset

CJ

[jasonc]

The BB was replaced about 3000klm ago so should have a bit of life in it.

The BBs are cheap. don't forget to replace the cassette and chain while you are at it

how many KMs has the current crank done?

[cjrich]

how many KMs has the current crank done?

Still has the original chainset so about 12,000 klm at a guess. Outer chainring is well worn, inside not so bad as doesn't get a lot of use being compact.

Chain and cassette are still good, replaced not long ago, though a new chain is probably a good idea to mesh with the new chain rings.

EDIT: Just checked my maintenance records and BB, chain and cassette have around 1500 klm on them. Made me realize how slack I've been this year, but have a knee injury which requires surgery, and been riding my MTB to work. Excuses Excuses

Cheers
CJ

[Rex]

My FC-R600 outer chainring should arrive tomorrow.

I have no hesitation in keeping the R600 chainset, although I do wish I had the option for a 52 tooth ring.

[stanzarallyman]

r600 crankset is solid, r700 is hollow.

My r700 crankset shaft has extensive wear. I think this is because the rubber seal on the non drive side was not there and water has got in and corroded the shaft.

If this happens, your non-side crank will start to wobble. the only solution I could find was to take out the pastic clip on the non-drive crank and tighten the hell out of the crank. This wont work forever and it will need replacing.