When searching for groupsets, the majority of cyclists tend to stick within the realm of the big three names – Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. These groupsets have established their worth through consistent performance and reliability, justifying their premium prices.
However, from time to time, a fresh player emerges on the scene, sparking interest – as is the case with Sensah. Hailing from China, this company emerged in the previous decade and now presents cost-effective choices that purportedly rival renowned brands.
In the following discussion, we will deeply delve into our perceptions of the shifting performance and riding experience offered by the Sensah Empire Pro model. We will also draw comparisons with its leading contender, the Shimano 105.
Sensah Groupset: Initial Insights and Versatility
Embarking on our comprehensive review, we embraced the capabilities of the 12×2 Sensah Empire Pro groupset. However, it’s worth noting that the groupset is also available in an 11-speed variant, which not only comes at a more budget-friendly price but also carries attributes that might align more seamlessly with your preferences. In the subsequent sections, we’ll unravel the reasons behind this assertion and provide a thorough analysis of both options.
Components of the Groupset
Within the realm of groupsets, an array of packages awaits discovery in the online marketplace, each offering a distinct assemblage of components. In our endeavor, we meticulously tested Sensah’s right and left shifters, both the front and rear derailleurs, and their cassette. As of the current time, this ensemble is priced at $252.00.
It’s imperative to note that certain packages include supplementary elements such as brakes, chain, and crankset. However, these particular components are not manufactured by Sensah, but rather by a brand known as Zrace. While the quality of Zrace’s offerings seems acceptable, the crankset doesn’t stand out remarkably, and there have been instances of unfavorable feedback concerning the brake components integrated into the Sensah package. Especially, the brakes appear to fall short in terms of performance and have been criticized for contributing additional weight, prompting questions about their overall value for the investment.
Our recommendation lies in opting to acquire any additional components you require from established and trustworthy brands such as Shimano or SRAM. Alternatively, conducting thorough research into reputable third-party manufacturers could lead you to discover superior value options.
For those relatively new to the realm of bike-building, it’s important to highlight that the set doesn’t come with an English-language user manual or installation instructions. Additionally, an official English version seems to be absent. If you’re assembling a groupset for the first time, you’re likely to encounter challenges. Exploring available online how-to guides could provide invaluable assistance in navigating this process.
Another noteworthy point is that the Sensah shifters lack compatibility with hydraulic disc brake calipers. While you can still employ Sensah shifters on a bike frame equipped with disc brakes, it’s essential to note that cable-actuated disc brake calipers must be utilized. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this setup will not attain the same level of performance as a true hydraulic disc brake system.
Key features of Sensah Empire Pro groupset:
- Comprehensive Components: Tested components include shifters, front/rear derailleurs, and cassette, ensuring a seamless setup;
- Affordable: Priced at $252.00, it offers budget-friendly upgrading;
- Supplementary Elements: Packages include brakes, chain, and crankset (Zrace). Caution needed for brake performance;
- Customizable: Mix-and-match for personalization, but coherence important;
- Installation: Lack of English manual. Online guides aid assembly;
- Brake Compatibility: Works with cable-actuated disc brakes, not hydraulic systems. Performance difference noted.
Weight and Quality in the Components
Upon unboxing, the components don’t exude a notably inexpensive feel, a surprise given the sub-$300 price point of the groupset. The aesthetic is streamlined, boasting a clean finish devoid of any jagged edges or loosely connected elements. At a visual level, the mechanics present a promising picture.
Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that the front derailleur catches attention due to its compact size, raising some reservations about its potential performance. On the other hand, the rear derailleur and shifters exhibit a relatively standard and well-crafted appearance.
While the cassette maintains a reasonable lightweight profile considering its 12×2 size, the overall weight of the groupset isn’t particularly impressive, even with our testing of the supposedly lightest option Sensah offers – the carbon version. Surprisingly, the shifters contribute a notable amount of heft, a characteristic that might not align with your expectations for a model designed to prioritize weight reduction.
Taking inspiration from SRAM’s double tap style, the shifters display compatibility with SRAM components in their 11-speed iteration. However, in terms of ergonomics, these shifters lean more towards Shimano’s design – a favorable aspect for hand comfort. This observation is particularly noteworthy since the shape of SRAM’s mechanical shifters is generally disliked by individuals I’m acquainted with.
If your intention is to match Sensah shifters with Shimano derailleurs, it’s advisable to opt for the Sensah Team version instead of the Empire.
- Perceived Value: Components, despite the sub-$300 price point, don’t feel cheap. Streamlined aesthetic with clean finish;
- Visual Appeal: Mechanics showcase a promising appearance. Rear derailleur and shifters are well-crafted and standard-looking;
- Front Derailleur: Compact size raises concerns about potential performance;
- Cassette Weight: Reasonably lightweight considering its 12×2 size. Carbon version tested, but overall groupset weight not particularly impressive;
- Shifters: Shifters surprisingly contribute notable weight, contrary to weight reduction expectations;
- Shifter Design: Inspired by SRAM’s double tap style, offers compatibility with SRAM components in 11-speed version. Leans more towards Shimano’s ergonomic design for comfortable hand placement;
- Compatibility Note: Opt for Sensah Team version over Empire if matching Sensah shifters with Shimano derailleurs.
Sensah Groupset Ride Report: On-Road Performance
Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter – the real-world performance of the Empire Pro set during actual riding.
The verdict? Quite satisfactory. After configuring and ensuring the precise indexing of the components on the bike, we embarked on an extensive test ride with the groupset and encountered no significant issues. While such performance might be taken for granted when dealing with more established brands, in this context, it served as a reassuring confirmation.
As of now, our experience encompasses approximately 2000 km of riding with the groupset, during which not a single chain drop has been encountered. This track record certainly marks a robust beginning and adds to the confidence in its performance.
Shifting Dynamics: Performance Insights
In the context of shifting performance, our overall experience with the Sensah groupset proved to be commendable. Overcoming initial skepticism concerning its size, the front derailleur showcased seamless shifting capabilities. It’s pertinent to acknowledge that these smooth shifts were facilitated while utilizing a Shimano 105 crankset and chainrings, a factor that could have contributed significantly to the overall performance.
The initial impression of the shifters as more ergonomically designed than their SRAM counterparts turned out to be largely accurate. Notably, the act of shifting felt less cumbersome, making it easier to avoid inadvertent gear changes, a challenge more commonly associated with SRAM setups. If your preference aligns with SRAM’s shifting lever design over Shimano’s, the thoughtfulness dedicated to comfort in the Sensah design could be a substantial factor to consider.
However, it’s worth noting that the shifters’ levers demand a considerable push to effect downshifts towards lower gears. Consequently, if you possess smaller hands or frequently ride in the drops position, these shifters might not be the most ideal choice. This attribute could pose even more limitations for riders with shorter hand spans or those who frequently adopt a more aggressive riding posture.
Comparing Sensah Empire and Shimano 105 Groupsets
When it comes to riding with the Sensah groupset, it’s important to note that it might not entirely meet professional standards. Let’s juxtapose it with the Shimano 105, often referred to as “the groupset of the people,” and considered the benchmark against which the industry measures itself.
While the Sensah’s shifting demonstrates a satisfactory level of smoothness, it’s undeniable that the Shimano 105 delivers a truly superior riding experience that the Sensah doesn’t quite match. One noteworthy distinction is the remarkable premium feel that the 105 offers, a characteristic that doesn’t quite translate to the Sensah. Moreover, the 105 stands out for its conspicuously reduced noise in the drivetrain, contributing to a quieter and more enjoyable ride.
Interestingly, despite its carbon composition, the Sensah groupset doesn’t significantly outshine the Shimano 105 in terms of weight. It’s plausible that Sensah’s incorporation of carbon elements might have balanced out the weight of other components, but this balance doesn’t produce a notable overall difference.
However, where the Sensah does hold an advantage is in its price point and the range of available gears. These factors play a pivotal role in the value proposition of the Sensah groupset, making it an attractive option for those seeking a blend of performance and affordability.
Aspect | Sensah Empire Groupset | Shimano 105 Groupset |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | Satisfactory but not as superior as 105 | Provides a superior and smoother ride |
| Premium Feel | Lacks the premium feel of the 105 | Offers a remarkable premium feel |
| Noise Level | More noise in drivetrain | Reduced noise, quieter riding |
| Weight | Similar weight despite carbon composition | Competitive weight for performance |
| Price | More affordable | Higher price point |
| Gears | Offers a wider range of gears | Standard gear range |
| Alternative | Suitable alternative to Shimano Tiagra | Superior to Sensah, especially Tiagra |
| Strengths | Dependable shifting, cost-effective | Superior ride, industry benchmark |
| Modifications | Possibility for component upgrades | Limited modifications for improvement |
| Ergonomics | Marginal drop in ergonomics | Superior ergonomics |
| Compatibility | SRAM Red 22 shifters for weight concerns | Standard compatibility with Shimano |
Exploring Comparable Shimano Models
For those contemplating the Sensah option but apprehensive about its somewhat inferior ride quality, it’s certainly prudent to consider the Shimano Tiagra as a viable alternative. Even on a lower-tier bicycle, Shimano’s ride superiority tends to surpass that of Sensah.
One drawback of the Tiagra is its offering of only ten speeds. However, in our perspective, the extra gear or two provided by Sensah isn’t likely to be sorely missed by the average cyclist. After all, a surplus of gears won’t inherently translate to increased speed; rather, it provides more choices, leading to smoother gear transitions.
Sensah’s Strengths
While the earlier critique might sound stringent, we can assert that the shifting performance of the Empire Pro is indeed as dependable as that of the 105. This assertion holds true if you’re willing to overlook the marginal drop in ergonomics and ride experience, particularly when you consider the substantial cost difference – the Empire Pro is approximately half the price of the 105.
Should you have particular preferences, there are modifications you can opt for. We’ve previously recommended discarding Sensah’s suggested brakes and crankset, as the derailleurs emerge as the most robust segment of the groupset.
In the event that the shifters feel excessively weighty, an alternative route is to purchase solely the derailleurs and pair them with older SRAM Red 22 shifters. Notably, these are compatible with Sensah Empire’s 11-speed variant (excluding the 12-speed). This route could be especially appealing if weight is a significant concern. Furthermore, when utilized together, this combination is lighter and still more economical than a Shimano Dura-Ace setup.
However, it’s crucial to reiterate that, as previously mentioned, the SRAM shifters might not offer any additional ergonomic benefits for your grip.
Verdict Time: Sensah Empire Pro – Our Final Say
The Value of the Sensah Empire Pro: Is It Worth the Investment?
The Sensah Empire Pro undoubtedly presents an excellent value proposition for a high-performing groupset. Within its price range, it’s challenging to find a groupset that matches the same level of reliability and offers such a commendable number of gears.
However, it’s essential to temper the enthusiasm surrounding the Sensah Empire Pro with a touch of reality. While the groupset performs well and boasts solid features, we find that the exuberance it has garnered might be slightly inflated. Comparatively, it doesn’t quite reach the echelons of performance achieved by the Shimano 105, and this disparity can be attributed to various factors. Notably, the ride quality of the Sensah Empire Pro falls short when measured against the standards set by the 105. Moreover, while Shimano offers the assurance of consistency throughout your entire groupset, the Empire Pro often necessitates a mix-and-match approach.
Nonetheless, for certain individuals, this characteristic may not cast a shadow over the appeal of Sensah. After all, a significant part of the joy in crafting your own bike comes from personalization and discovering the unique combination that resonates with you.
When coupled with budget-friendly carbon frames and wheels, the opportunity to construct a lightweight bicycle that is substantially more cost-effective than entry-level Western carbon frames becomes a compelling option worth considering.
Evaluating Suitability for the Sensah Empire Pro
Determining whether the Sensah Empire Pro is the right fit for you involves considering a few key factors.
The Sensah Empire Pro emerges as a particularly strong contender for newcomers who have yet to acquaint themselves with the experience of Shimano and SRAM’s higher-end groupsets. If you’re in this category, the Sensah Empire Pro presents an appealing entry point.
For those who own an entry-level road bike equipped with Shimano Sora or Claris and are willing to invest a bit more to enhance their gear options, the Sensah Empire Pro holds substantial promise.
Additionally, if you’re embarking on the journey of crafting a road bike from the ground up and have a preference for budget-friendly components, the Sensah Empire Pro might align well with your vision.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that if you already possess a Shimano 105 or SRAM Rival groupset and your goal is to trim weight off your bike, the Sensah Empire Pro might not fulfill your aspirations. In such instances, sticking with established options like Shimano and SRAM would likely yield more satisfying outcomes.
Durability of the Empire Pro Set
While our assessment is based on 2000 km of riding, the durability of the Sensah Empire Pro set has demonstrated favorable performance thus far. Notably, the set exhibits remarkable resilience. The only notable signs of wear we’ve observed are on the hood covers of the shifters, which are gradually becoming slightly loose and may not endure much longer.
It’s worth mentioning that other reviewers have highlighted variations in the materials used for the right and left covers, which could potentially signify a mix-up or supply shortage. This observation suggests that hood covers might not be one of Sensah’s strong points.
Regrettably, the Sensah groupset doesn’t come accompanied by any form of warranty coverage. While this might be anticipated given the price point, the absence of warranty coverage doesn’t bolster the brand’s reliability. Should any issues arise, reaching out to the brand directly could be an option, although it’s important to note that there’s no guarantee of resolution.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether the Sensah Empire Pro Set aligns with your specific preferences and needs as a cyclist. For those new to groupset assembly seeking a dependable and cost-effective option, Sensah is likely a commendable choice. Similarly, experienced cyclists seeking to venture beyond their accustomed components and explore something novel might find Sensah enticing. However, it’s worth noting that in our perspective, there’s a likelihood that many may eventually revert to Shimano due to its established reputation.
Conclusion
In the realm of cycling groupsets, the Sensah Empire Pro emerges as a commendable option that seeks to strike a balance between affordability and performance. While it may not reach the heights of established competitors like Shimano’s 105, it offers a satisfactory shifting experience and reliability, making it particularly appealing for newcomers and budget-conscious riders. The groupset’s customization potential adds a layer of personalization, but its mix-and-match nature might not suit those seeking a cohesive setup. While the Sensah Empire Pro demonstrates durability over a limited period, its lack of warranty coverage raises concerns about long-term reliability. In the end, the Sensah Empire Pro stands as an attractive choice for those willing to compromise a bit on premium features in exchange for a cost-effective and functional groupset.
