I was contemplating upgrading my bike components and am not sure if the cost will justify the benefits. I currently have 105s on my 2002 cervelo one. I already have a set of race wheels and am very comfortable on my handle bar setup so I don’t need those upgrades. Besides weight, which I’m not going to notice. What are some other benefits? Is my shifting going to improve, will it be more reliable? Or should I go get a tune-up and save my money.
Hmmm, well, in my opinion it may be a matter of your expectations.
There is a difference in performance between component groups but sometimes it is small. It sounds like you have the basics down already- Assuming you have good bike fit and it sounds like you have a nice set of race wheels. I think you may be doing fine.
Maybe do the tune-up and get a new chain and save the rest of the money for race entry fees for now if your existing stuff is working. One way or another, you’ll need the tune-up so that might be the place to start IMHO.
My C’dale is a ‘98 with 105. I could go add up the mileage later, but sufice to say the stuff still works. A qualified tech can tell you if there is anything about to grenade. If you have been keeping up on basic maintenance, you should be good for many mo’ miles.
Brett
Like the man himself said, the incremental performance you’ll gain by going from 105 to Ultegra will be minimal at best, and certainly not noticeable. (Hell, in Europe there are Pro teams riding Ultegra, and some very good amateur teams on 105.) If it wears out/breaks then upgrade, or upgrade for aesthetic reasons.
Go for the tune up and forget it.
Got three road bikes in my basement with 105, Ultegra and Dura-Ace. OK, the Dura-Ace STI shift is marginally shorter, but other than that, it’s hard to notice a difference. Upgrading certainly won’t make you any faster. Save the money for a Renn rear disc if you don’t have one already.