Shimano Dura-Ace FD7800

Price Paid:  $0.00

Favorite Ride:
hilly

Bike Setup:
Kestrel evoke with d/a group

Summary:
I bought a new bike with full D/A group approximately one year ago and probably have about 6,000 miles on it. The D/A front derailleur continues to work flawlessly; however, when I was cleaning my bike the other day I noticed that the chrome coating on the derailleur was flaking off in a couple of places and pitted in others. Where the chrome had flaked off, the metal was corroded underneath. I was surprised as I haven't ridden this bike much in the rain, and although I live in a hot humid area, keep the bike inside my air conditioned house when not riding it. I am going to seem if Shimano will replace under warranty and will try to remember to post an update.

Strengths:
Works great.

Weaknesses:
Shoddy finish, chrome flaking off and corrosion underneath

Similar Products Used:
older d/a, ultegra, xtr, sachs, campy

Price Paid:  $0.00 at Supergo

Favorite Ride:
San Clemente to Oceanside

Bike Setup:
Felt F55 w/ Dura Ace shifters/derailleurs and FSA compact crank.

Summary:
I can only evaluate this derailleur's performance with a compact crankset. My bike came with an FSA compact crank 50-34 and a Dura Ace 10 spd setup. The Dura Ace front derailleur seems to have some problems adapting to the compact design. Firstly, the upshift is very temperamental - you have to let up on the crank before shifting to ensure a smooth shift. Otherwise there is grinding and protests from the drivetrain. Also, I keep throwing my chain if I am in #7 or 8 in the rear and go from the big to small chainring in the front. I can't seem to get the adjustment right.

Strengths:
Shifting is quick.

Weaknesses:
Doesn't work well with FSA compact crank. You have to let up the pressure on the crankarms to get a decent shift.

Similar Products Used:
Campagnolo Veloce and Centaur - shifts much more smoothly than the Dura Ace.