Originally Posted by
drafters65
I know that the cassette shouldnt be a problem aslong as i stick to a 9 speed but is replacing the RD recommended?
For optimal shifting with a true road cassette, yes. I'd rather run an IRD 11-28 and leave the RD alone.
Originally Posted by
drafters65
Am I able to just replace the individual crankrings instead of replacing the whole crankset?
Yes, but it may not save you much compared to a complete crankset.
Originally Posted by
drafters65
Is there a 26" wheelset that will allow me to fit road thin tires?
When traveling, I take my hardtail with a knobby wheelset and a slick wheelset. 26x1.0-ish tires fit fine on a 21.5-22mm wide XC rim. I don't think I'd run anything smaller than 26x1.25-ish on the 23.5-24mm wide rims. I'm not sure but I think the spec'ed Sun Mach 4 rims would be OK. My Sun 0-degree XC's are a bit on the wide side.
If you're going to do anything more, stop. Buy a road bike. The switching to drop bars and all won't be worth it.