Hello, I have a trek 8500 hardtail frame. I want to do some longer rides maybe sections of the GDMBR next summer. My frame is nearly new (it was a trek warranty replacement). However almost all the other components are really old (off an older trek 7??? or something like that).
Its all 8 speed shimano stuff. Deore LX. The only drivetrain components that are new are the cassette and new truativ cranks. It has been adjusted by me and friends that own a shop and the components on it just will not work properly. They go out of tune within one ride.
I am just not sure what would be best to replace the parts with. Im tossed up between sram and shimano. My roommate has a brand new x7 derailleur I could buy for really cheap so Im thinking about going that route. Im also considering just buying replacement Shimano stuff. I would also like to upgrade to some disc brakes. Im thinking mechanical avids or something along that line.
Im also an unemployed graduate student so cost is certainly a factor here. I will be slowly piecing things together over the fall and winter until I can do my build.
I would appreciate suggestions on to how you would build this bike and what parts you would recommend. If you know the price and good retailers that would be even better.
Thanks,
Dan