|   Question about upgrading components | JRPK
Jul 12, 2002 8:17 PM | | Currently I have a stock Trek 4500: Shimano Alivio Shifters and Derailleurs, an SRAM 5.0 Cassett (8speed), and Bontranger Crank.
My question is, to upgrade to the next level, Shimano Deore &/or SRAM 7.0, etc., would I be required to upgrade my whole drive train system and shifters from an 8 speed to 9 speed? It seems like all the next level up components are for 9-speeds. Is that necessarily true?
Also, I've once read it's not ideal to mix drive train components between manufacturers. Any thoughts on that?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
jrpk |
| 'Upgrading' to 9 speed | JmZ
Jul 12, 2002 8:36 PM | | To 'upgrade' to the next level - Deore or 7.0 would require going 9 speed. [Note here I am NOT sure if SRAM still supports the 7.0 and 9.0 8 speed options. I'd hope so, but don't think so...]
To go 9 speed would need a new chain, shifters, and cassette.
> Also, I've once read it's not ideal to mix drive train components > between manufacturers. Any thoughts on that?
Which parts? Don't mix the 7.0/9/0 Shifters with Shimano rear mechs, and vice versa. For Cassettes, chains, hubs, cranks, BB's (possibly) feel free to mix. The component companies want you to believe that Shimano will always ONLY work with shimano - preferably all the same level (i.e Full XTR, XT, etc). It may be 'better' but honestly I doubt I would notice the difference.
Now for the few random thoughts...Consider why you wish to upgrade.
Is it for a different range of gears, one more gear, just for the 'higher' group name, or lighter weight?
For a larger gear try a larger range cassette first. Should be much cheaper and won't require changing all the parts. Maybe two - Cassette and possibly rear mech to accomodate the larger cassette.
Just because it's higher up the food chain doesn't mean it's that much better. I honestly like 8 speed better than 9, and I like the design of the Deore shifter pods better than XT or XTR (I don't have to take them apart to change a cable!)
JmZ |
| stick with the 8-speed | mtnbiker
Jul 14, 2002 2:48 PM | | You would be spending a wad of cash on upgrading your bike. Save the money because you will still have to replace tires,brake pads, chains, cassetes, cables, and so on as they wear. 8speed is also much more reliable!!!!! 9speed is so finnicky. |
| THANKS | JRPK
Jul 15, 2002 10:48 AM | | thanks for the info |
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