Seeking Drive Train Advice
07-15-08, 10:47 AM
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Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Washington DC
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Bikes: Gunnar Roadie
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Seeking Drive Train Advice
I'm looking for advice on replacing my drivetrain based on my riding conditions.
I ride a 2003 Gunnar Roadie (mid-level steel bike). I have a 9-speed drive train with mostly Shimano 105 components and a 52/42/?? triple. I ride about 150-200 miles per week; my average speed (according to my GPS) is typically around 19.8 mph. I ride in all weather conditions, and I often have an extra 5-10 pounds on my bike in the form of a rear trunk and bag (I commute on this bike). On weekend rides, I strip all of the extra gear off and will ride 30-40 miles between 20.5 mph and 21 mph. I live in Tampa, which is very flat but can be windy.
Other notes:
- I have a new Ultegra 10 spd rear derailler. I figured I could use it with a 9-spd cassette or upgrade my whole drivetrain to 10 spd (levers and cassette).
- I've never even used the triple. I am on the middle chainring about once a month when I get caught in a heavy headwind or when I'm riding with my wife. 95% of the time, I'm on my big crank and in one of the top five gears.
- I periodically max out my 52 tooth ring. I'd love to move to a 54 tooth ring, but they only seem to sell cranksets with a 52. On a typical ride, my max speed is 24 mph, though there are times when I spin in the 26-29 mph range.
- I think a Hollowtech bracket with outboard bearings would be easier to clean and maintain.
- Gunnar Roadies seem to be most often built using Ultegra components. The frame is worthy of an upgrade.
- Installing $700 of components on a 5-year old frame seems odd. I could buy another used Gunnar for that cost, but I am very happy with this bike and given the rusty conditions I ride in, I am hesitant to simply buy a new bike.
Given that I already load up my bike with gear and clothes commuting, does it make sense to upgrade to Ultegra and save a pound?
Any recommendations for balancing performance, durability, and cost?
I ride a 2003 Gunnar Roadie (mid-level steel bike). I have a 9-speed drive train with mostly Shimano 105 components and a 52/42/?? triple. I ride about 150-200 miles per week; my average speed (according to my GPS) is typically around 19.8 mph. I ride in all weather conditions, and I often have an extra 5-10 pounds on my bike in the form of a rear trunk and bag (I commute on this bike). On weekend rides, I strip all of the extra gear off and will ride 30-40 miles between 20.5 mph and 21 mph. I live in Tampa, which is very flat but can be windy.
Other notes:
- I have a new Ultegra 10 spd rear derailler. I figured I could use it with a 9-spd cassette or upgrade my whole drivetrain to 10 spd (levers and cassette).
- I've never even used the triple. I am on the middle chainring about once a month when I get caught in a heavy headwind or when I'm riding with my wife. 95% of the time, I'm on my big crank and in one of the top five gears.
- I periodically max out my 52 tooth ring. I'd love to move to a 54 tooth ring, but they only seem to sell cranksets with a 52. On a typical ride, my max speed is 24 mph, though there are times when I spin in the 26-29 mph range.
- I think a Hollowtech bracket with outboard bearings would be easier to clean and maintain.
- Gunnar Roadies seem to be most often built using Ultegra components. The frame is worthy of an upgrade.
- Installing $700 of components on a 5-year old frame seems odd. I could buy another used Gunnar for that cost, but I am very happy with this bike and given the rusty conditions I ride in, I am hesitant to simply buy a new bike.
Given that I already load up my bike with gear and clothes commuting, does it make sense to upgrade to Ultegra and save a pound?
Any recommendations for balancing performance, durability, and cost?
