Upgrade Colnago Alu frame to Trek Alu frame - pros and cons

iceinbangkok

I wrote a post earlier in the year asking for advice as to whether to invest into my Colnago Primavera 2008 frame or change up and the general consensus was to keep it. I did that - and went in several events this year including a hilly 100mile race a few weeks ago. I have done a lot of ks and a lot of training on my balcony (cycleops trainer). Overall the bike met my requirements - the frame fits me well and I find it comfortable. As some suggested it might be, it was a real asset downhill - stable and confidence inspiring. I didn't change too much on the bike - I did save 500gms plus by switching out the crankset to 105 5700 (got a good price). I also got some mid-weight wheels. But I still have the Tiagra 4500 gearing and 9 speed cassette. I found the gear changes generally pretty good - except when I came under pressure uphill in the long race recently. I also found on tough terrain the shifters didn't feel stable underhand grip.

So as I get ready to do more cycling in 2017 and more serious events I am thinking again to either upgrade the Tiagra gearing - or to look sideways at a similar model with better gearing. I can get a Trek ALR5 for 1100usd. I am not sure how the frame would compare to mine - but it would have full 105 components. Changing out the shifters, Derailleurs, cassette, chain etc would cost about 400usd.

Would welcome thoughts on it.

lincolndave

It sounds like the Colnago suits you fine , I would upgrade the Colnago if I were you

Monty Dog

Regardless what the name on the frame says, they're both made in Taiwan by Giant - you'd notice more difference by putting some decent wheels on your Colnago