Originally Posted by
sleepy
Just got a CAAD9-6 on layaway. Sooo stoked.
Aside from thinking of all the riding I'm going to do, I'm already daydream nation on what upgrades to throw on it.
I've been thinking of a good solid wheelset, preferably box rims as a starter. It's going to be the day to day rider, any recommendations? Any options besides the ever reliable Open Pros/Ultegra combo? And then what? Stems? Seatpost? I'm looking for durability. All on a budget.
I'm really enjoying this thread. So many nice builds!
Congrats on the new bike!
Are you buying this bike new or used? If it's new (or close to it), I'd keep the stock R500s for the time being. I've got a 2009 CAAD9 6, and the stock wheels worked fine. I replaced them at ~4,000 miles with Open Pro/Ultegras for the improved ride, not because there was a problem with the R500s. Both wheelsets weigh about the same, which is about a pound more than the wheels 2ndGen linked to.
I'd go for the tires and brake pads 2ndGen recommended, and also follow his recommendation on keeping the Tiagra. My first upgrade would be the seat. Getting all of these together would cost you about $250.
The type of riding you do should dictate which upgrades you get, and in which order. And remember, the advice we give you is worth exactly what you're paying for it.
