New bike vs new brakes
jclark
Posts: 5
Hi,
A few months ago, my ancient halfords carrera got nicked so i got myself a cannondale F6 http://gb.cannondale.com/bikes/08/ce/model-8FS6.html and promptly started enjoying and getting into mtbing a bit more seriously as a result.
With our crappy weather and my increasing confidence, I'm starting to feel the need for some decent disk brakes, maybe avid juicy 3's or something. As far as I can tell, however, that'll also mean a whole new wheel set - maybe £500 or so including brakeset for it to be worthwhile (?)
Question: is it a good idea to upgrade a £350 hardtail with a new wheel set and hydraulic disks, or would i be better off holding out for a while and just getting a whole new bike (e.g., the matts tfs 850 trail-D, featured in this month's mbuk) ? i.e., will a £350 hardtail + custom fitted wheels + brakes run as nicely as an £800 hardtail designed and built by professionals...?
A few months ago, my ancient halfords carrera got nicked so i got myself a cannondale F6 http://gb.cannondale.com/bikes/08/ce/model-8FS6.html and promptly started enjoying and getting into mtbing a bit more seriously as a result.
With our crappy weather and my increasing confidence, I'm starting to feel the need for some decent disk brakes, maybe avid juicy 3's or something. As far as I can tell, however, that'll also mean a whole new wheel set - maybe £500 or so including brakeset for it to be worthwhile (?)
Question: is it a good idea to upgrade a £350 hardtail with a new wheel set and hydraulic disks, or would i be better off holding out for a while and just getting a whole new bike (e.g., the matts tfs 850 trail-D, featured in this month's mbuk) ? i.e., will a £350 hardtail + custom fitted wheels + brakes run as nicely as an £800 hardtail designed and built by professionals...?
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Comments
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FWIW I've used XTR V-brakes for many years and even in the worst conditions, it only takes one rotation of the wheel for them to bite.
They may not offer the ultimate power and modulation of a good disc set up but they are a lot cheaper than new wheels or a new bike. Zero maintenance as well.0 -
I'd hold out and get a new bike.
Reason? What are you going to do with your old brakes? You'll only end up wanting further upgrades anyway...
Better to look towards a second bike IMO. But why not look at other full-sus bikes besides the merida? Anyway, the idea is that you can eventually use this one for commuting, around town, utility bike. :idea:
The main difference will be a much better quality fork on a new bike. Your cannondale frame looks alright, but the rear derailleur looks a bit cheap...0
