3 years ago I purchased a Raleigh SC30 (it’s a low end LBS comfort type bike with Shimano shifters and derailleurs), back then, I wanted it to lose weight and get some exercise, and I thought a long ride was 3 miles. I currently have about 800 miles on the bike, most of it put on this year and a typical ride now is 20 miles.

Lately, it seems that every time I ride the bike, a have a new noise or creak to deal with, or adjustment to make. I have done regular maintenance, both through the LBS as well as by myself. I’m not talking about tires and break pads, but what is the typical life span of low end bike components?

Question 2. The sooner the bike above starts braking parts, the sooner I’ll be able to convince my wife that I need to cough up $800-$1000 for a road bike. What should I expect for the reliability of the components on a bike in that price range?

Thanks

800 miles? That bike is not even broke in yet. I don't consider a new ride beyond the "it's new and still getting adjusted" phase until about 1,000 miles. It takes that long for bearings to run in.

Dave

Typcially lower end components will last longer than that, but will usually require more adjustments.

I would also guess that lower components will tend to break more easily/faster than higher end.

If you are looking at a new bike, I would say stick with shimano 105's which have a great all around performance/durability. I have 300+ miles on my 2200 and have yet to need an adjustment. Although, I think I"m taking it in this weekend for a minor tune.

hope this helps.