On a mountain/city bike, would new Acera derailler be better than 11 year old Alivio one?

Question

Have 1997 BRC mtn bike, single tange chro-mo, realtively unused (been in my shed) with Alivio derailler. Thinking of getting new Marin Kentfield with Acera b/c I want the suspension and better sizing. Would advances in derailler technology over the last 10 years make the new Acera better than a new Alivio from 10 years ago? It might be splitting hairs, but I'm trying to figure out if I would be down-grading by getting the new bike. Would be for commuting <5x per mo and evening/weekend riding.

Answer 1

You&#039;re not riding enough to notice the difference.  

You would likely notice the suspension far more than the difference in derailleur function.  

As for function, the old Suntour on the Nishiki I bought in &#039;73 works fine, even though its relegated to trainer use these days.  The real difference is that your &#039;97 is probably 6 speed, maybe 7, while current manufacture is most likely 9.  

Answer 2

Just getting the correct size bike will make all the difference in the world. You can&#039;t help but upgrade by getting a bike that fits.

Answer 3

Acera and Alivio is the lowest end component in the Shimano line. Acera is what they put on Walmart and Target bikes. Alivio, on boutique shop bikes. Performance wise, they are both the same.

Will a new Acera perform better than a 10 year old Alivio? More than likely yes since it is brand new although not necessarily an upgrade.

Sizing is more important than components. If you are buying a new bike because it fits better, then do so. A high-end componentry bike that doesn&#039;t fit well will not benefit a rider. Go with the top tube (TT) measurement. Different manufacturers have different sizing but the top tube is what counts. A Small in one manufacturer&#039;s spec could be a Medium for another although they may have the same Top Tube measurement.