Apologies for what might be an irreverent post. But, thanks to Bob Hanson for originally posting that photo over on the CR list this morning. I really needed a good laugh this morning..and that did it.

That's OK, rootboy. I'm fixing myself a second breakfast to replace the one I tossed. No worries.

@ you guys, first laugh of the day!

I swap out the old bicycle for a different bicycle fairly regularly. Seems to make a difference.

I agree with this.

Clipless pedals,

I switch this part out, and I swear I can feel the difference:

Most bang for your buck:

A KMC z50 chain, coupled with a Shimano hyperglide freewheel. The Shimano freewheels are ugly but usually worth it IMO.

I'd say changing the frame makes the biggest difference LOL!

But seriously, i think tires make the biggest difference as they telegraph the bumps affecting the way you interface with bars, saddle, cranks,etc. My second choice would be brakes, a spankin new set makes a massive difference on the backside of every hill.

A lot of assumptions. If you're riding a road bike, changing the handlebars won't have anywhere near the impact other changes will.....

Clicked on this thread because I also own a Super Course, 1984 model. I purchased it in near-new condition. Slowly, I removed its original components, put them in a special box, and replaced them with modern, more-functional components.

The only thing I DIDN'T change was the handlebars. :--) I like the old 38mm spread on these OEM drop bars. For me, it feels right, and the drop bars offer a number of different hand positions you cannot get with flat bars.

However, I DID replace the following:

1. Wheels. The OEM front Araya had a dish in its seam. Changing that wheel was a no-brainer, a necessity.
2. Sprocket assembly. The OEM 12x23 was not my friend on these long local steep hills. A 14x28 gave me the large cog I needed.
3. Rear Derailleur. The old derailleur didn't work well with the new, wider-spread sprocket assembly. So I installed a new, longer RD. Problem solved.
4. Front Derailleur. Because it was cheap and it works like buttah.
5. Brake hoods. Those little holes in the OEM Dia-Compes look cool. But it's still metal against your hands. The new Cane Creek brake hoods are lovely, soft rubber that invite and encourage your hands to rest there, whether sitting or standing.
6. Brakes. Another no-brainer. Modern, brushed aluminum Ultegras provide superior braking with easily replaceable shoes.

Which one is the most significant in terms of changing the bike's personality? Probably items 1 through 6.

I love this bike now. But it took awhile. . .

Duane Behrens

Components? Yeah, it has to be the bars. I've hated every bike I've ridden in the last ten years that doesn't have drop bars.

MTBs excepted; although so far every MTB I've converted to drop bars has been greatly improved.

I tried replacing a pedal with a handlebar, but the bike was nearly unrideable afterwards. So I replaced the headset bearings with chain links, but that just made it worse.

I don't think I'm cut out to be a mad scientist.

[MENTION=190941]jimmuller[/MENTION] - Don't count yourself out! if only 1% is successful....... Try replacing the saddle with a handlebar. I've not done it but I have seen many ride on the front with their feet on the front axle and sitting on the bars. That would be dramatic and different. Do they make stems with a 27.2 Diam?

The question did not say anything about improvement!

The things I feel make the biggest difference, in order:

1) tires
2) handlebars
3) saddle
4) brake pads
5) rear cluster

yeah, i had a print out bespoke fit in the 90/s and it suggested 44c/c bars and they just felt so right from the 42's.yes much better for out
of the saddle up hilling everything.it also said 172.5 cranks so i switched to them and they feel better.
yes they do say lighter wheels are the best instant upgrade i suppose for up hilling especially.
but they can also be the largest expense.
yes and its a great feeling when you know you have really good quality brake pads.

best wishes kevin

Second this, particularly number two. I took your suggestion from way back and put some Vittoria Open Corsa SCs on my regular rides and there's a noticeable increase in ride quality. I'm liking 23s and above these days

DD

Increase over what? FWIW, I really liked the ride quality of those on the Masi when I used them, but the tread sure wore thin quickly. Now the Masi's clincher wheel have 23mm Veloflex and I think I like them as much or more.

Well DD, I am just about to finish the build on my Kvale and I came to the same conclusion.

Toss on the Open Corsa SCs. Just a great tire for the $$$.

Now if we could just lose the 2" of ice on our streets I could give them a spin.

I second your original vote for tires. Then again, if the stem isn't right and the reach is too long, I won't be comfortable enough to care about the tires. BTW which 820 do you have? The sage green or the ice teal with the fade?

Matching the ride to your moustache is all important.

Of course changing the bars for another style has a massive impact: that's geometry for you.

But without changing geometry, replacing your OEM wheels with a lightweight tubular wheelset will give the most noticeable difference, then maybe tires and chain. Brakes that work in all conditions help too: even just pad material.

IMHO, the crank is fairly insensitive unless you change ratios. It's hard to find classic cranks in a compact size, though... and who ever though a 52-49 combo was useful obviously does not live in the mountains.

Saddle? who sits down to ride hills?

[MENTION=317821]Ramona_W[/MENTION] - I have the Ice Cyan fade to Ice Blue/Violet. I did a drop bar conversion on it and am giving this format a whirl. I agree with you on the reach statement. That affects how the bike handles and your comfort or discomfort.

23s compared to 19s, a noticeably cushier ride. Additionally, they've held up well, look the business with tan sidewalls and - as Grady notes above - they're simply great value for money.

DD

I would have to agree with Tom. Bars or saddle make the biggest difference especially in comfort. Usually that means riding or sitting. To each his own.