Now that I’m back on the bike, I’ve started to compile a list of things I’d like to replace or upgrade on the LeMond (in rough order of preference):
- new brake pads
- carbon fiber forks (especially since I noticed that the left-hand dropout on my current chromoly forks is a little bent after the crash)
- compact double crankset (preferably with a carbon fiber spindle, though that’s not necessary)
- short-cage rear derailleur (to go with the compact double)
- compact-optimized front derailleur from Campagnolo (better shifting performance and compatible with both Campy and Shimano shifters)
- Shimano Ultegra brakeset
- Mavic Kysirium wheelset
- Nokon brake and derailleur cables and housing
- upgrade to full Ultegra 10 kit or full Campagnolo 10-speed kit
- Chris King headset
- carbon fiber seatpost
- carbon fiber handlebars
I’m quite happy with my current saddle, pedals and wheels, and the Specialized Mondo Pro tires have proven very able treads. And it’s not like there’s anything mechanically wrong with the bike as it currently stands. But I’d like to trick it out as time goes on.
If anything, the fork and brake pads take the cake in terms of “I need this” importance – that’s just safety for ‘ya. And as “The Safety Gang” on Robert Smigel’s TV Funhouse used to say:
“Safety’s a reflex – use it blindly!”
jank
16 November 2005 — 16:27
The Carbon Fiber fork is among god’s greatest gifts to mankind (second only to their cousin, the inanimate carbon rod). Highly recommend this; will make the bike feel close to brand new.
I’ve been kicking around the compact crank idea, too, as a less wussy looking alternative to a triple to deal with the hills around here.
As far as 9 speed vs 10 speed, dunno. Are we approaching the point of diminishing returns? Is 10 speed really “This one goes to eleven” compared to 9 speed?
soe
16 November 2005 — 18:30
Is there a “Pimp My Bike” show I can write to for you?