Bought a new 2012 CAAD 10 a couple months ago and have been making some purchases and changes. The bike is still at the dealership (although paid for and then some) because it's too cold to ride and anything I purchase with the bike is 10% off and anything I purchase or bring in they will install for free.... Pretty damn sweet if you ask me. Don't even have to purchase it from them (but of course most of it has been).

My question is regarding the crankset. 1st is a compact and I am use to a standard, but since this will be my everyday bike, it doesn't have to have the gearing my Klein does. My question is should I upgrade to a Shimano cranksest or just replace the chainring (or rings) with Shimano ones?

I don't want to start a FSA vs Shimano thing so PLEASE don't go there. I PERSONALLY prefer the way the Shimano rings glide the chain onto the ring to the way the FSA's throw it on. It shifts fine, I just don't care for the "feel". It's my bike and my preference, not saying anything is wrong with FSA. In fact I prefer the looks of the FSA cranks to just about anyone and Shimano are my least favorite looking. Just my opinion YMMV.

I could put Ultregra or 105 rings on this crankset or get an adapter and replace the crankset with a Shimano. If I switch the crankset, I can go with standard gearing but of course the cost is more.

I'm also aware that there are 52 tooth compact chainrings available so here are my questions...

Anyone using a 34/52? Have any problems shifting or dropping your chain? What ring did you go with and how does it "feel" when shifting?

Given the same scenario, what would you do?

Thanks in advance and PLEASE let's not debate over which one shifts better, is the better crank... I'm looking for some help not a troll-fest.

Frank