Any suggestions on affordable roadbike components?

Question

I'm looking to replace my crank, cassette (hopefully 10 spd), chain and deraillers (front and back). I'm not really looking to get all the top of the line stuff per se but I definitely want them to be a good quality and affordable. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Easy- Shimano 105. It's inexpensive enough yet you could even race on it if you want. 105 is middle of the line but it's the entry level 10 spd setup. It's also the workhorse of the shimano line- meaning it's a proven group. Very reliable. Also, if you are running 9 speed now, you can use your current derailleur on a 10 speed setup. You will need a 10 speed cassette, chain,  and of course, shifters. I've seen 105 cranks for $30 used on craigslist and in good condition more than a few times. Have you tried looking on ebay as well? You can buy the components you want for fairly low prices.

Answer 2

Shimano 105 or SRAM Rival will both get you up to the 10 speed mark.  Neither of these are the top of line, but they are solid, race proven, performers.

Are you making these upgrades just to get to 10 speeds?  As we say in the south, the difference between having a ten and a nine speed cassette ain't worth a warm bucket of spit!  And it's going to cost a lot of money, especially if you buy everything new.  I suspect you might find a 10 speed cassette pretty underwhelming.

I'd suggest you save your money until you are ready to get a new bike.   Manufacturers buy in volume and can get stuff for much less than you can.  Thus, they can provide a bike, equipped like you want it for much less than you can upgrade to the same components.

Now, if your entire drive train (cassette, chainrings and chain) are worn out and need to be replaced, this is a bit of a different story.  These 10 speed components don't cost that much more than 9 speed stuff.  The big added cost item will be a set of 10 speed brake/shifters.

I'd save money by not replacing the crank and derailleurs.  The important pieces are the chain, cassette, chain rings and brake/shifters.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Most of the Shimano 105 stuff is quite worthy and affordable.

Answer 4

I do prefer Shimano Dura Ace but just picked up a set of SRAM Rival and for the price I think it is amazing.  I did have a friend last year that raced and trained on the Rival and he said it held up pretty well.