After 8 years of head abuse and sending it through the rear spokes twice, the 11 speed 105 rear derailleur on my Rose cross/gravel bike is looking damaged beyond repair. I can't complain as it's taken a real beating and had run on a 40 tooth cassette with a road link for the past two years pretty faultlessly. I'm going to convert to 1x at the same time as I rarely use the big ring on this bike and it looks so much cooler.

I was just going to do a direct replacement for a R7000 gs but I wondered if there is much advantage to getting the GRX RX812 derailleur instead? I've noticed some chain slap on rough terrain with my 105 so wondered if the extra expense is worth it for a clutch and also using a derailleur within it's designated range for once.

Thoughts and opinions much appreciated!

Cheers, Andy

I would, I like the clutch RD on my gravel bike (2x Shimano gearing). I don't always use it but for rides that do have a fair bit of bumpy ground it's a good option. Never lost the chain off the front when the clutch has been on. Shifting is a little easier with the clutch turned off though.