Old 03-10-13 | 06:25 PM
  #10  
hockeyteeth's Avatar
hockeyteeth
Senior Member
 
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,890
Likes: 0
From: Gnv, FL
Originally Posted by OllieGreen
I have been researching a lot of SS/FG bikes to see if they are worth buying to replace my old '84 Trek 510 road bike that I converted to a single speed. I am considering buying a Kilo TT from BikesDirect (big surprise there) because I don't have a lot to spend on a new bike or upgrades for that matter and for my needs $400 is a decent price to pay without going too cheap. Also, I am worried about something breaking on my Trek and when I need to find a new part for it, I will not be able to easily get that part because it is such an old model. On this bike I have replaced the saddle, tubes/tires, pedals, and handlebar tape.

Right now the Trek is just my beater bike I use for riding to school and going a few miles around town every now and then.

Can anyone tell me if something like a Kilo TT would be considered an upgrade in quality from my Trek? Or would I be better off to just keep upgrading the various parts around my frame?
I tentatively vote fixing up the Trek. All the parts you have replaced are standard wear items (unless you get a particularly nice pair of pedals with nice bearings). Assuming the headset, bottom bracket, and wheelset are in decent condition, you already have a fairly nice bike on your hands. If all those components are blown out it might be more cost-effective to buy a new bike. Like hairnet said, you can probably get the fork straightened by a competent shop very easily, and upgrading to more comfortable, modern brake levers and stronger dual-pivot calipers will make a huge difference. Looks like the Kilo TT only comes with a rear brake anyway.

Just keep in mind that bikes with older, loose-ball bearings need periodic adjustment and repacking to keep them working smoothly. For example, a decent quality, properly maintained loose-ball bottom bracket can last years with occasional adjustment and repacking while a typical cartridge bottom bracket simply gets replaced once the bearings are worn to the point of developing play. Otherwise, brakepads, cables, tape, tires, etc. will need replacement just as often on any other bike. If you don't find much satisfaction in maintaining an older bike and keeping it on the road you may feel less frustrated just buying a new bike.
hockeyteeth is offline  
Reply