I agree with the others here. Alloy wheels will make the most noticable difference by lightening the bike and providing better braking. A used front derailleur should be easy to procure. In fact, I have a bunch of extras.

I could send you one no problem. Send those pictures along and I'll see if I have one that fits your bike's seat tube diameter.
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In life there are no mistakes, only lessons. -Shin
Last edited by High Fist Shin; 06-30-09 at 12:18 PM.