Hey Everyone,
I have a Trek 1400 that I greatly enjoy. I have had it for about a year now and am thinking of upgrading components on it.
I have amassed several REI gift cards over the past year and looking for some recommendations. I do have a couple LBS but with REI have parts I figured I would ask. Looking to spend between $800-1000.
I am basically trying to upgrade everything but the frame, forks, and downtime shifters.
Will a $80 brake set or $200 wheel and new group set, cranks, and other “budget” items be worth it, or should I rather spend that $800-$1000 on a new complete bike even though I greatly enjoy my current frame.
Thanks for the insights!
by pulihurt
3 Comments
I really recommend putting on brifters, but i wouldn’t spend that much money for upgrading this bike.
If the bike rides well, I always say: never change a running system.
Better save up some money to buy a proper new bike in the future.
Okay, I am going to play devil’s advocate here: why do you want to do these upgrades? This bike, though older, looks to be in excellent shape. I can see the point if you’re considering, for instance, going to a triple (or compact double) crankset for lower gearing range. But unless you are a competitive cyclist or long-distance tourist, the upgrade will largely be eye candy.
Assertion: the point of cycling should be to enjoy the experience. Ask yourself if spending this money will bring you that.
I could add all sorts of criticism of the bike industry for hooking us on the idea that newer, lighter, more expensive is always better; like I said, “devil’s advocate.” I have certainly been guilty of spending lots of money on upgrades and new bikes. However, every day on Reddit I see photos of cracked carbon frames, etc. That bike, if you care for it (and it looks as though you have been) will be good for years as is.
*steps down off soapbox*
My 1984 Trek 400 has original components and I put the time and money into restoring. This is my ‘vintage car’ I take out for rides on nice days.
And honestly if you share your WHY you want to upgrade, it would help with recommendations (racing, money burning a hole in your pocket, peer pressure to look cooler).