I'm a newer rider and picked up a used 2019 Diamondback Release 2 29 last year and have been loving it! I've probably got around 20-25 rides on it and a year in I'm wondering what I should be thinking in terms of upgraded components to improve the ride quality. I'm not at the point of wanting to get a completely new bike/frame so looking for ideas to keep this one fresh for at least another year.
One thing I've been noticing is when ascending and upshifting to a harder gear, the gear change can come with a fairly noticeable "clunk". Not sure if this is a sign that the cassette may be needing to be replaced in the near future?
Also considering a suspension flush since I don't believe that's ever been done. Probably would do a brake flush at the same time (brake pads were new when I picked up the bike).
The full bike specs are here and I've done the following myself:
- New pedals
- New grips
- Replaced all frame/pivot bearings
- Replaced bottom bracket
- Replaced handlebars to go from 15mm to 35mm rise (I'm 6'7" and frame is an XL so needed a little more height)
Appreciate any thoughts!
by The_Ballsagna
2 Comments
If you have around 25 rides, you can probably get away without doing a service on the suspension. If you plan on doing the lowers yourself though, then i’d recommend doing it. It will make you suspension feel noticeably better.
How are the pads? A lot of life left on them? How do the brakes feel?
Have you tried adjusting the tension on the shifting? You shouldnt need to replace the cassete anytime soon.
Upgrading components on old bikes rarely makes financial sense – good forks and shocks are ridiculously expensive unless you can find them used. Personally, I’d focus on little things that are “maintenance” rather than “upgrades”. I’m not a bike mechanic, but I suspect this thing will be more fun if you (or your bike shop) service the fork and shock, bleed the brakes and replace the pads, replace the shifter cable and, if needed, the cassette, derailleur, and/or chain.
Beyond that, I think you’d be better off saving for a new bike than upgrading an old one.