Back into the Sport

davinet78

Hi in 2007 I bought a Trek 8900 with aluminum frame and complete with the Shimano Xtr group set.
Due to personal reasons I stopped practicing this sport in 2009.
Now I’m about to go back into the sport and I’ve seen in my local club that most racers are using 29ers and single cassette in the front with 11 speeds at the back and carbon fiber frame is standard now too.
Is my bike still competent?
Or is it time to get a new bike?
Thanks

cooldad

Competent probably, competitive probably not.

But you'll probably need some practice anyway.

davinet78

oxoman wrote:

Hi welcome back into biking. Nothing wrong with your bike as long as its in good knick. I'm assuming its a similar as the 8500 as i cant find the spec for the 8900. The assumption is its hydraulic disc, 26" wheels. Up until recently i rode a 26er at the likes of Cannock and Llandegla, and some sections that i strava,d are still faster on my old 26er compared to my 27,5 or a a recently borrowed 29er. Personally if its still in good condition give it a good service and ride it until you need something better. Each different wheel size has its strengths and weaknesses, some people prefer single up front with a dinner plate 42 plus cassette on the rear and some a double and 36/40 rear cassette on the rear.

Thanks for your reply
Yes the 8900 is exactly the same as the 8500 but with xtr and not xt.
Thanks for your advice too.

davinet78

cooldad wrote:

Competent probably, competitive probably not.

But you'll probably need some practice anyway.

Thanks