Greetings. I'm thinking about finally getting a bike that's more suitable for touring, and am considering the Novara Randonee. It lists for $950 and I have a *large* dividend coming from REI this spring along with a 20% off coupon so it will be an affordable option.

I wanted to get your opinions on upgrades. I've looked over the forums and have seen several recommendations to switch to lower gearing (REI has addressed this with a Deore crankset--see specs below) and to change out the spokes to DT or wheelsmith. I'll also put a Brooks on the bike and all the requisite racks, fenders, lights, clipless pedals etc.

Looking at the specs below, any other upgrades you'd recommend? I want to get a sense of "total cost" before I proceed. Thanks, and cheers!

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'06 Novara Randonee specs:

Frame Reynolds 520 cromoly
Fork Cromoly
Crankset Shimano Deore 26/36/48
Shifters Shimano Tiagra
Brakes Shimano R550 Cantilever
Brake levers Shimano Tiagra
Front derailleur Shimano Tiagra
Rear derailleur Shimano LX
Head set FSA Orbit X
Bottom bracket Shimano Deore Octalink
Rear cog SRAM PG-950 11/34 x9
Front hub Shimano Tiagra
Rims Mavic A319S
Tires Vittoria Randonneur 700x32
Spokes Stainless steel
Stem Ritchey angle adjust
Handlebar Ritchey BioMax
Seat post Ritchey Comp V2
Saddle Fizik Rondine
Pedals Platform w/toe clip
Chain Shimano HG73

I rode the 06 a couple of weeks ago and it is a nice bike. they come pretty well setup now, especially with the change to mtn crankset. I wouldn't do much - just ride it.

I agree with mtnroads...just ride it and upgrade things as they wear out.

Try re-tensioning/stress relieving the spokes when you first get the bike. I would go for a few loaded rides and test the spokes before replacing them (lots of work that may not be necessary!). By that time, you might just go ahead and decide to replace the entire wheelset.

BTW, those Vittoria Randonneur tires (esp. the Pros) are very nice and IMHO under appreciated in the U.S.

That's one of the bikes on my short wishlist because it is relatively inexpensive and wouldn't need a bunch of upgrades. You made a great decision and I would feel things out before making more changes. Have fun.

Great advice. I understand the Tiagra hubs are pretty nice and more serviceable than 105 or Ultrgra. A little heavier but for touring... I am looking at getting one of these also. Hard to see how they can make a profit on this bike especially w/ another 20 percent off right now.