
( Brand: Shimano ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 68100060 ), ( Model: DURA-ACE ), ( Type: Derailleur Set ), ( Color: Silver ), ( For Bike Type: Racing Bike ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan ), ( Vintage: Yes )
The **Shimano 1970ST Edit-Ace Racing 10-Speed Rear Derailleur (Part #68100060)** is a meticulously crafted, high-performance component designed for cyclists who demand precision, reliability, and timeless elegance in their gearing system. Inspired by the iconic 1970s Shimano Edit-Ace series, this derailleur embodies a blend of vintage racing heritage and modern engineering, delivering seamless shifting with a refined aesthetic that pays homage to classic road cycling. Built with a durable **aluminum alloy frame**, the derailleur features a robust yet lightweight construction, ensuring durability on both grueling climbs and high-speed descents. Its **10-speed compatibility** makes it versatile for modern setups, accommodating a wide range of cassette sizes while maintaining smooth, consistent engagement across all gears. The **Edit-Ace Racing branding** adds a touch of sporty sophistication, with a sleek, minimalist design that complements both vintage-inspired and contemporary road bikes. The derailleur s **precision-engineered pulleys and spring mechanism** ensure crisp, repeatable shifts, minimizing chain drop and maximizing efficiency, even under demanding conditions. Whether paired with a classic steel frame or a modern carbon rig, this derailleur stands out as both a functional powerhouse and a stylish nod to the golden era of road racing. Ideal for serious riders who appreciate the marriage of form and function, the **Shimano 1970ST Edit-Ace Racing 10-Speed Derailleur** is a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on performance or design.
The Shimano 68100060 1970ST Edit-Ace Racing 10-speed rear derailleur is a high-end component designed for performance-oriented road cycling. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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**Pros:**1. **Premium Build Quality**: The Edit-Ace series is Shimano s top-tier offering, featuring high-grade materials like aluminum and steel, along with precise machining. This ensures durability, smooth operation, and resistance to wear over time.
2. **Lightweight Design**: The derailleur is engineered to be as light as possible without compromising strength. This contributes to better pedal efficiency and overall bike handling, which is critical for competitive or high-performance riding.
3. **Super Smooth Shifting**: Shimano s Di2 electronic shifting system (if paired with compatible components) delivers ultra-responsive and precise gear changes. Even with mechanical shifting, the Edit-Ace s tuning and components are optimized for minimal friction and consistent performance.
4. **Durability and Reliability**: The derailleur is built to withstand heavy use, including aggressive riding, racing, and frequent gear changes. Shimano s reputation for reliability in high-end components is well-established, and this model is no exception.
5. **Compatibility with High-End Systems**: The 10-speed setup is designed to work seamlessly with other Edit-Ace components, such as the crankset, cassette, and shifters. This ensures a cohesive and optimized performance across the drivetrain.
6. **Aesthetic Appeal**: The Edit-Ace series features a sleek, aggressive design with a matte black finish and subtle racing accents, making it visually appealing for riders who prioritize both performance and style.
7. **Long-Term Value**: While the upfront cost is high, the durability and performance of the Edit-Ace derailleur can justify the investment for serious riders who plan to keep the bike for many years.
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**Cons:**1. **High Cost**: The Edit-Ace derailleur is one of Shimano s most expensive offerings. For casual or recreational riders, the price may not be justified, as lower-tier derailleurs (e.g., Ultegra or even 105) offer comparable performance for a fraction of the cost.
2. **Overkill for Most Riders**: Unless you are a competitive racer, a time trialist, or a rider who demands the absolute best in every component, the marginal gains offered by the Edit-Ace may not be noticeable or worth the investment. Most riders will not feel a significant difference between Edit-Ace and Ultegra or even higher-end 105 models.
3. **Maintenance Requirements**: High-end components like the Edit-Ace require regular maintenance to perform optimally. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and occasional adjustments, which can add to the long-term cost of ownership if you re not comfortable or willing to perform these tasks yourself.
4. **Limited Availability of Replacement Parts**: While Shimano is a well-established brand, some specialized parts or adjustments for ultra-high-end components may be harder to source compared to more common models. This could be a concern if you encounter issues or need specific upgrades.
5. **Weight Sensitivity**: While the derailleur is lightweight, the overall weight of a fully Edit-Ace-equipped bike can be substantial. For riders who prioritize minimal weight (e.g., gravel or endurance riders), the additional weight of the Edit-Ace may not be ideal.
6. **Potential for Overcomplication**: The Edit-Ace s precision and tuning can make it more sensitive to minor issues (e.g., misalignment, cable stretch, or dirt buildup). This might require more frequent fine-tuning compared to more forgiving derailleurs.
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**Conclusion:**The Shimano 68100060 1970ST Edit-Ace Racing 10-speed derailleur is a top-tier component that excels in performance, durability, and precision. It is best suited for elite-level racers, professional cyclists, or enthusiasts who demand the absolute best in their cycling equipment and are willing to invest in a system that delivers marginal but meaningful gains. For these riders, the derailleur s superior build quality, smooth shifting, and lightweight design justify its high cost.
However, for most recreational or competitive amateur riders, the cost may not be justified. Lower-tier Shimano models (such as Ultegra or even higher-end 105) offer nearly identical performance for a significantly lower price. The Edit-Ace s advantages are subtle and may not translate into noticeable improvements for riders who are not pushing the limits of their sport.
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**Recommendation:** - **Buy the Edit-Ace derailleur if:**- You are a professional or elite-level racer competing at the highest levels.
- You are building a high-end custom bike where every component is top-tier, and you prioritize marginal gains in performance.
- You have the budget to invest in a fully Edit-Ace system and are willing to maintain it properly.
- You appreciate the aesthetic and prestige associated with Shimano s Edit-Ace series.
- **Avoid or consider alternatives if:**- You are a recreational rider or competitive amateur who does not need the absolute best performance.
- You are on a budget and can achieve similar results with Ultegra, 105, or even higher-end 105 models.
- You prefer a lighter overall bike weight and are willing to compromise slightly on the derailleur s premium features.
- You are unsure about the long-term commitment to maintaining high-end components.
For most riders, a **Shimano Ultegra or higher-end 105 derailleur** would offer a better balance of performance, cost, and practicality. However, if you are building a dream bike or competing at the highest level, the Edit-Ace derailleur is an excellent choice.
See pictures. This is Brand New Old Stock and comes in the original box. Missing the Derailleur as shown. Up for sale is one 1 Shimano 1970'st Edit-Ace Racing 10-speed set - Missing Derailleur READ.
Selling As-Is.