Shimano Tourney TX is a groupset of bicycle components that includes the gears, brakes, shifters, and other parts that make up the drivetrain of a bike. It is one of the lowest-end groupsets in Shimano’s range, and it is designed for recreational and entry-level cyclists who want a reliable and affordable option.
What is Shimano Tourney TX?
Shimano Tourney TX is a 3×7 or 3×8 speed groupset, meaning that it has three chainrings in the front and seven or eight cogs in the rear. It is compatible with rim brakes or mechanical disc brakes, and it uses thumb shifters or trigger shifters to change gears.
Shimano Tourney TX is mainly found on entry-level mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, or city bikes that cost less than $500.
Main Components of Shimano Tourney TX
Shimano Tourney TX rear derailleur
It has a direct-attach design, meaning that it bolts directly to the frame without a hanger. It also has a smart cage design, meaning that it has a shorter cage for 7-speed cassettes and a longer cage for 8-speed cassettes.
Shimano Tourney TX shifters
They can be either thumb shifters or trigger shifters, depending on the model. Thumb shifters are mounted on the handlebar and require pushing or pulling a lever with your thumb to change gears. Trigger shifters are mounted on the brake lever and require pushing or pulling a small button with your index finger to change gears.
Shimano Tourney TX brakes
Brakes can be either rim brakes or mechanical disc brakes, depending on the model. Rim brakes use pads that squeeze against the rim of the wheel to create friction and slow down the bike. Mechanical disc brakes use pads that squeeze against a metal disc attached to the hub of the wheel to create friction and slow down the bike.
Shimano Tourney TX crankset
This part connects the pedals to the chainrings. It has three chainrings with different sizes and teeth counts, usually 42/34/24 or 48/38/28. The larger chainring provides more speed but less torque, while the smaller chainring provides more torque but less speed.
Shimano Tourney TX cassette
This part contains the cogs in the rear. It has seven or eight cogs with different sizes and teeth counts, usually 14-28 or 11-34. The larger cog provides more torque but less speed, while the smaller cog provides more speed but less torque.
Shimano Tourney TX chain
This part connects the chainrings to the cogs. It has 116 links and uses a standard 3/32 inch width.
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How does Shimano Tourney TX perform?
Shimano Tourney TX is not designed for high-performance cycling, but rather for casual and recreational riding. It offers smooth and reliable shifting, decent braking power, and adequate durability for its price range. However, it also has some limitations and drawbacks that you should be aware of before buying it.
Pros of Shimano Tourney TX
Affordable and Widely Available
You can find Shimano Tourney TX on many entry-level bikes from different brands and retailers. You can also find replacement parts easily if you need to repair or upgrade your bike.
Easy to Use and Maintain
You don’t need much skill or experience to operate Shimano Tourney TX. The shifting is intuitive and simple, and the braking is responsive and consistent. You also don’t need much tools or knowledge to service Shimano Tourney TX. The components are mostly compatible with standard tools and parts, and they don’t require frequent adjustments or lubrication.
Versatile and Adaptable
You can use Shimano Tourney TX on different types of bikes and terrains. Whether you ride on paved roads, dirt trails, or gravel paths, Shimano Tourney TX can handle it. You can also customize Shimano Tourney TX to suit your preferences and needs. You can mix and match different components from other groupsets, such as Shimano Altus or Shimano Acera, to improve the performance or functionality of your bike.
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Cons of Shimano Tourney TX
Heavy and Bulky
Shimano Tourney TX uses mostly steel and plastic materials, which add weight and bulk to your bike. The components are also larger and more exposed than higher-end groupsets, which can affect the aerodynamics and aesthetics of your bike. If you care about speed, efficiency, or style, Shimano Tourney TX may not be the best option for you.
Noisy and Clunky
Shimano Tourney TX does not have the same level of precision and smoothness as higher-end groupsets. The shifting can be noisy and clunky, especially when changing gears under load or in harsh conditions. The braking can also be noisy and squeaky, especially if the pads or discs are worn or dirty. If you care about comfort, quietness, or reliability, Shimano Tourney TX may not be the best option for you.
Prone to Wear and Tear
Shimano Tourney TX is not built to last long or withstand heavy use. The components can wear out faster and break easier than higher-end groupsets. The steel parts can rust and corrode, the plastic parts can crack and snap, and the cables and springs can stretch and lose tension. If you care about durability, quality, or safety, Shimano Tourney TX may not be the best option for you.
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Conclusion
Shimano Tourney TX is good for what it is: a low-end groupset for entry-level bikes. It offers basic functionality and performance for casual and recreational cyclists who want a cheap and easy way to get into cycling.
It is not good for what it is not: a high-end groupset for advanced bikes. It does not offer optimal functionality and performance for serious and competitive cyclists who want a fast and efficient way to excel in cycling.