Hollowtech has been a popular choice among cyclists for many years, with its lightweight design, durable materials, and smooth shifting capabilities. But with the introduction of Hollowtech 2, many riders are wondering which one is best for their needs.
In this short guide, we’ll look at the differences between Hollowtech vs Hollowtech 2, to help you decide which one is right for you.
Top 4 differences between Hollowtech 1 Vs Hollowtech 2
Shimano Hollowtech 1 is the original version of the Hollowtech crankset and has been around since the mid-90s. whereas Hollowtech 2 is the second generation of the Hollowtech crankset, released in the early 2000s.
Shimano Hollowtech 1 vs 2 versions differ in many ways. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these two Hollowtech.
1. Design
Hollowtech 1 has a traditional three-piece design, with a bottom bracket, two crankarms, and a spider. This design is strong and reliable, but it can be a bit heavy.
Hollowtech II, on the other hand, has a two-piece design, with just a bottom bracket and crankarm. This allows for a lighter overall weight, and also makes it easier to install, as there are fewer pieces to assemble.
2. Construction
Hollowtech 1 is made from aluminum, while Hollowtech 2 is made from a carbon-fiber composite. The aluminum version is strong and reliable, but can be a bit heavier than the carbon-fiber composite.
The carbon-fiber composite is lighter, but it is also more expensive.
3. Shifting Performance
Hollowtech 1 has a traditional chainring design, while Hollowtech 2 has an advanced drivetrain that uses a chainring and cassette.
The chainring design is reliable and easy to use, but the advanced drivetrain of Hollowtech 2 provides smoother shifting and better power transfer.
4. Price
Hollowtech 2 is also more expensive than Hollowtech 1 and is only available on higher-end models of bikes.
Additionally, the installation of the Hollowtech 2 system is more complex and may require additional tools and time, adding up the cost.
Conclusion
Hollowtech 1 and Hollowtech 2 are both excellent crankset designs. The original version is still a great choice for most cyclists, while the newer version provides an even lighter and stiffer crankset. Both versions provide an excellent balance of light weight, stiffness, and durability.
So, whichever version you choose, you can be sure you are getting a reliable and high-quality crankset.
Leave a Reply