Shimano Non-Series Components vs. 105, Tiagra, etc.?

Question

Even majority of the components on the bikes are 105, Tiagra, etc. some manufacturers would throw in a couple of Shimano non-series components (crankset, cassette, for example). My question is, where do these so-called non-series components fall in terms of quality and performance in the Shimano product line? I know they will not be as good as ultegra. Will they be comparable to Tiagra or will they be much worse?

Update:

I am actually referring to these:

http://techdocs.shimano.com/techdocs/blevel.jsp?as...

Update 2:

If it is R600, where would that fall between? Would it be Ultegra quality?

The Lord of Misrule · Accepted Answer

The non-series parts seem to contain part that fit a certain quality but not the expected use.  Examples are say bar end shifters or cantilever brakes.  The equivalent levels are

R700 = Dura Ace
R600 = Ultegra
R500 = 105
R400 = Tiagra

? · Answer

Ultegra Vs 105

firkins · Answer

Tiagra Vs 105

bikeworks · Answer

Shimano makes a large range of non-series stuff that usually fall between their named components.

Pay particular attention to where exactly the non-series numbers fall and you'll have a good idea of whether they are better or worse than the named parts. For example, Shimano Sora is 3400 series and Tiagra is 4400. Shimano also makes 2300, 3300 (under Sora) and 3500 (above Sora/below Tiagra).

Generally you lose the quality of finish and sometimes some functionality when dropping a series. Sometimes it's more so you have to know what you're looking at.

John M · Answer

If they are not listed on the Shimano web site they are non series components and just stamped steel with a Shimano sticker on them.  If you see a bike advertised " equipped with Shimano components " that is a red flag.  Stay far away.

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Shimano Non-Series Components vs. 105, Tiagra, etc.?

5 Answers