Groupset Advice

Stuff · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:00

Hi guys,

Recently had a chat with a bike mechanic after I found the middle cog of my crankset is pretty bent up after snapping a chain

He suggested just getting a new groupset, as the bike is 4-5 years old Giant Defy and would provide a decent upgrade by spending £300ish.

This got me thinking about just selling up for £200ish and spending £500 on a new bike. I started looking into groupsets, but is there a list somewhere that tells you about all the different Shimano versions and what their names represent, and how good they are?

Finally, any suggestions for a £500 roadbike?

Armageus · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:02

https://www.evanscycles.com/coffees...imano-road-bike-groupsets-and-their-hierarchy

wakadoo · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:03

i saw a roux vercors 7 on half price the other day, i will see if i can find it.

wakadoo · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:04

http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/p...d_Frame_52cm?gclid=CI6z0qnBjM8CFRPhGwodA-kG8A

Roux Vercors R7 2014 Bike
Frame: 7005 double butted alloy
Fork: High carbon ferrous alloy
Cranks: FSA 50/34
Rear Derailleur: Shimano 2300
Shifters: Shimano 2300 16sp
Cassette: Shimano 8sp cassette 12/25
Wheelset: Triple chamber aero rims, Q.R hubs
Tyres: C.S.T 700x25
Brakes: Tektro
Handlebar: Kalloy anatomic
Stem: Kalloy ahead road
Saddle: DDK Race
Extras: Full gel bar tape

not super top end but a lot of bike for the money.

BIG image.. http://www.rouxbikes.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/roux-2014-vercors-r7-road-bike.jpg

BennyC · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:23

Triban 520

Ribble Evo Pro

Much better bikes.

Stuff · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:32

Armageus said:
https://www.evanscycles.com/coffees...imano-road-bike-groupsets-and-their-hierarchy

Very helpful, thanks!

wakadoo said:
http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/p...d_Frame_52cm?gclid=CI6z0qnBjM8CFRPhGwodA-kG8A

I'll check it out, thanks!

BennyC said:
Triban 520

Ribble Evo Pro

Much better bikes.

Oooh, that Ribble looks sweet! With all bike manufactuers claiming to make awesome bikes, and aside from the groupset, fram material etc., how am I supposed to decide which is 'best'? Pick the prettiest one? :confused:

BennyC · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:40

What are you going to be using it for? Commuting? Sportives? Recreational weekend rides? Lots of climbing etc?

Wheelset, tyres etc are all factors to consider at this sort of price range when trying to get the most bang for buck.

If you're confident enough to buy used or have someone you trust to give a second hand bike a look over your money will go further. Though buying new from a LBS will help resolve any issues and normally get you a free fit too.

Stuff · 13 Sep 2016 at 15:45

BennyC said:
What are you going to be using it for? Commuting? Sportives? Recreational weekend rides? Lots of climbing etc?

Wheelset, tyres etc are all factors to consider at this sort of price range when trying to get the most bang for buck.

If you're confident enough to buy used or have someone you trust to give a second hand bike a look over your money will go further. Though buying new from a LBS will help resolve any issues and normally get you a free fit too.

Just evening/weekend outings really, doing between about 20-100 miles. I've got a brand new pair of Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres on my bike at the mo. The bike I have is second hand, but I don't know the history or last service. I figured that spending £80 on a service and £300 on a groupset meant buying new would probably make more sense.. Having got any friends selling unfortunately

mattyfez · 13 Sep 2016 at 18:37

I'd just buy a new chain ring personally, and you can do most servicing yourself with a few youtube videos.