Originally Posted by chelboed
My real problem is the price, but once you figure in:
X.9 shifters $65'ish
X.9 Derailleur $65'ish (1-2 per year) $65-$130
XT Front Derailleur $25
PG970 Cassette $40 (I go through 2-3 per year) $80-$120
PG971 Chain$25 (I go through 5-7 per year) $125-$175
So for around $360-$515 I can get through a year of riding on a bike that has a fragile dangling mechanism hanging off the side just asking to be slammed.
You would spend ~$2845 or so for 11 years of drivetrain
~$6000 or so for 19 years of drivetrain
It almost seems like a "No Brain'er". Now...how to save up.....?
One thing I would add to your justification.... Prices for replacement parts over 11 or more years will most certainly not remain static. I would add about $500 to your 11 year estimate. That doesn't include shipping costs if you buy online or additional costs/taxes if you buy from your LBS.
I say go for it!