Road Cycling - Cannondale upgrade.. or not?

I have an older Cannondale with shimano ultegra 600 EX components (7 spd) that is probably from the mid 80's. Bike has very low mileage. Frame is a 'Criterian' I beleive.

I recently looked into upgrading the frame with Cannondale's trade in program.

When I called a local shop they said that the trade in wouldn't be worth it since I would have to upgrade to many components - shift levers, etc.

I priced a new Cannondale w/Ultegra components and almost had a heart attack at the price. I am sure that the technology has come a long way in 10+ years, but damn!

Does anyone know what I would have to replace if I did do the frame upgrade? Would I be able to buy one of the Ultregra 9 spd upgrade kits? - Or is my stuff to old to be compatible?

Thanks in Advance.

Well...

Off the top of my head, I suspect that you'd need a whole new component group if you upgraded to a new frame. You'd be able to use your current front wheel/hub, but you'd have to either get a new rear wheel or rebuild your wheel with a new, 9sp hub.

What you'd definitely need to get new: Derailleurs, shifters, rear hub/freewheel, casette, cables.

What you'd probably have to get new: Crankset, bottom bracket, headset, stem.

What you could probably keep from the old bike: Front hub/wheel, rear rim, handlebars, seatpost, saddle, brakes.

You may as well buy a new bike or keep the one you have.

If I undersatnd you you want to switch frames? If so the only thing you should need is a longer rear axel and quick reliese and some spacers, the rear dropout spacing will be wider. If the new frame still has down tube shifter bosses they should go right on. If both frames use a brazeon type front derailer hanger that should work too. check to see if head sets are the same or just make sure the new frame has one. Is the seat post interchangable?
BTW I don't think Shimano ever called a group both Ultegra and EX, Ultegra started with 6400 series numbers and EX stopped with 6200 or even before, these numbers are on all componets made in the last 15+ years.
good luck
kev:thumbup:

WELCOME to the Forums!!

The only real reason to change frames, at this point, is if you don't like the "Criterion". As Velocepedio has pointed out, very few of your components will be useable. The suggestion to use your old rear wheel by adding spacers will certainly work, BUT the axle will not have the support it needs and will end up bending and with continued use will eventually ruin the hub as well.

You are bretter off riding this one with its low mileage until you can save enough for new bike or check on the web for "deals" that you can afford. Good Luck!

Just went home for lunch and gave the bike the once over.

The components have '600' stickers all over them and are stamped with 6400 model #'s.

Thanks all for the input. Sounds like the best thing to do is to just ride it. I have already purchased a seat upgrade and new tires. Will stick to upgrades for now.

Good decision.

One last ignorant question.

How do I tell what size the frame is (I don't remember what size I bought). The serial number starts with 60 - does this mean 60cm (which I would think is in the ballpark).

Thanks