Hello,

New to the forums, I have a 1993 Trek 830 Rigid, I have had it since new. I started purchasing parts in 2002 to upgrade the crummy stock parts (with to many miles) and to go from 7 speed to 8, most of the parts I have never had installed and quit ridding around the same time. Now here it is 2006 and I want to start riding and want to know if I should pay a shop to install the parts I purchased, see below lists, or should I get better/newer parts. One of my main concerns should I stay rapid fire or go with SRAM (grip shift or attacks) I purchased SRAM attacks and never installed, Should I install the used Shimano XT derailleur (to which I read reviews and now seems SRAM X0, X7 are better derailleurs) and suggestions for a front 28.6 derailleur, the front (Altus) hasn't worked right ever, I also need to think of changing the stock headset, and the stock crank and bottom bracket.

As for my riding, I'm a heavy rider 5'10" 250 pounds, and ride light trails (nothing to heavy as I feel my parts are close to breaking) and street riding.


In my parts box
- Full black Mavic wheelsmith rims with XT hubs (forget the model# and spokes)I know they are 8 speed hubs, Presta Valves. I will probally finish them with velox cloth tape
- Used but in good condition XT rear Derailleur
- SRAM Attack

so far what I have upgraded
- Brakes to 2002 Shimano LX
- Aluminum Kore 3 degree bend straight bar, profile grips
- Avenir Titanium Bar ends
- changed the stock cassette to HG70 and sachcs chain
- Controltech seat post
- Vetta seat (with magnesium rails)
- Panaracer Smoke rear and Dart front tires