If you buy a bog standard aluminium road bike for under £500, what are the best upgrades that you can add to the bike to improve performance?
1. Best Tyres – Continental Grand Prix 4000.
When your tyres wear out, buy the best tyres you can. There is no sense in economising on tyres. It is definitely worth spending £40 to get a top of the range set of tyres such as Continental Grand Prix or similar quality; they will help improve performance and prevent punctures. If you use the bike only for commuting and your highest priority is avoiding punctures get the Armadillo’s which I find to be nearly puncture proof. See: best puncture proof tyres
2. Carbon Fork
A carbon fork will help reduce weight but also increase the comfort of the ride by absorbing alot of the shock. A good carbon fork is relatively cheap and will make a noticeable improvement to performance.
For example, the Easton EC90 Carbon Road fork weighs only 290 gram. Carbon forks for £260 at Chain Reaction Cycles. Very good weight saving to value
3. Carbon Seatpost
A carbon seatpost is one of the most efficient ways to save weight with minimal cost. A carbon seat post can be half the weight from only £30. Seat posts at Wiggle
For example, try this Carbon Fibre FSA SL-K seat post from 200grams at only just under £60
4. Carbon / Titanium Saddle
Another good way to save weight is to buy a carbon / titanium saddle. I like the USE carbon model. It might look uncomfortable but I don’t mind. It is more comfortable than it looks. (lightest saddles)
Change Chain Frequently
It is important to change the chain frequently to keep efficiency high. I may change mine every 1,500 miles. I don’t buy the most expensive Dura Ace chains, because then I would baulk at changing it so frequently. But, a good new chain can increase efficiency. Definitely don’t wait until it starts slipping. How often to change chain
Wheels
A good set of wheels like the Mavic Krysium’s will save weight and increase stiffness. The good thing about buying a new wheelset is that they can be easily used on future bikes; therefore, the upgrade can easily be used for any future bike.
Clipless Pedals.
If your bike comes with standard toeclips (which is quite common), I would really advise buying some clipless pedals as they will make riding more enjoyable. choosing best pedals. Also, you feel greater power as when you pull upwards on the pedal your effort is translated into bike.
Not Worth Upgrading on a Cheap Road Bike
Groupset I wouldn’t worry about upgrading the groupset. It will be quite expensive; it almost becomes worth getting a new bike. For example, a £1,000 will get you a Focus Cayo with Shimano Ultegra and a carbon frame.
Frame. If you are going to buy a new frame, you will probably be better off just buying a new bike.
