fatmanriding

I have a 1982 Trek 613 with SunTour Components that someone gave me two years ago. I ride it regularly but really enjoy my kids bike with brake lever shifters a lot. I've been looking for a new bike but a mechanic friend of mine suggested I buy brake lever shifters and the related components and update my Trek frame. I've been out of work and without much cash and this seems like a more efficient alternative. I've been shopping Shimano 105 components after reading on the Forums that is where the quality begins without going over the top in price.

What are the thoughts about adding the new parts to the old frame, which is really good shape, and about the 105s as the group to install? Can it be one, and if done correctly, would the results be positive?

FMR

rhenning

You will be able to buy a used bike with the parts (maybe even a new bike) you want for less money than the upgrade will cost. Sell the Trek and buy what you want. To use indexed brake shifter you will need to replace the brake shifters, a new rear hub/wheel and cassette, a new chain, reset the rear triangle of the bike, one or both derailleurs and on and on. If you are poor it is not the way to go. Roger

Halfast

I agree with just getting another bike. I went through the same thing about upgrading my 1984 Miyata 710. I kept it as a backup and bought a new bike for less than upgrading the 710.

cyclist2000

another option, this is between what you have and brake shifters. get a set of indexing downtube shifters for a 6 or 7 speed and replace freewheel and rear derailleur as needed. this will get you index shifting but does not require the replacement of rear wheel and chain or spreading the rear triangle.