Bicycle Mechanics - Used Ultegra Group

Hi all. I've been pestering you with questions about fitting an Ultegra "group" (consisting of everything but hubs and headset) on to my Cannondale. It has come down to this: it seems like all the parts in this group are compatible. They are being sold for $375, plus shipping. The seller sent photos and the components look like they are in pretty good shape, except for the rear D which is scratched up pretty badly. The seller says it "works 100%" though. I am a little skeptical about parting with $375 for used parts sight un-seen and un tested. It does look like a good deal, but if something doesn't work out, I will have to buy new parts.

The second option is a web-seller that I found that will sell new Ultegra double crank, front and rear D, chain, BB, brakes, 9 speed cassette for about $375. It does not come with the shifters. My thought is I could pick those up used on ebay or somewhere else. I will probably have to pay about $200 though.

I would prefer the new parts because I am relatively certain about their ability to function as advertised. However, is the premium in price over the used components really worth it? Which do you think is the more conservative option?

Are both of these 9-speed? I am assuming so.

I would judge the first group at whatever the seller is expecting with the cost of another of RD in a condition comparable to the rest of the group. A badly worn derailleur is not worth putting on a bike as an upgrade, no matter what the seller says about it. $375 seems steep for heavily used parts in a discontinued group (assuming this is 9-speed). I would pass on this offer, no matter what the alternatives.

Look at the online dealers like Greenfishsports.com that frequently sell off NOS discontinued lines like Ultegra 9-speed. You mignt do the qbike search too.

Are both of these 9-speed? I am assuming so.

I would judge the first group at whatever the seller is expecting with the cost of another of RD in a condition comparable to the rest of the group. A badly worn derailleur is not worth putting on a bike as an upgrade, no matter what the seller says about it. $375 seems steep for heavily used parts in a discontinued group (assuming this is 9-speed). I would pass on this offer, no matter what the alternatives.

Look at the online dealers like Greenfishsports.com that frequently sell off NOS discontinued lines like Ultegra 9-speed. You mignt do the qbike search too.
+1

Ebay is full of used and NOS Ultegra 9 speed brifters. Stay away from bashed up old parts. That is the problem I'm having finding spares for my beloved Campy 8 speed groups. I will probably just upgrade to 10 for the availability issue. 8 speed works well but parts are a pain to find and getting expensive. Good luck

Tim