breault@msee.DEC (06/28/85)
I've been looking at new touring bikes because my ten year old, 30+ pound
Fuji is starting to get the worse of wear and tear. I've been looking at what
the Japanese have to offer and the array of frames and components available
is mind boggling! I'm prepared to spend about $450.
Based on what I've seen so far, a few questions come up.
1. Are all frames in this price range comparable (Fuji, Univega, Miyata, etc.)?
All are made of Cro-moly with similar tube angles and fork materials, and
all carry a lifetime warranty.
2. Are there any major differences in quality and performance between Shimano
and Sun Tour components? Any recomendations?
3. Would there be a worthwhile savings if I purchased a frame/fork such as the
Miyata 1000 and a component group such as the Shimano 600EX with Deore XT
brakes and assembled the bike myself (seeking help to assemble the bottom
bracked and head tube bearing sets)?
I'd really appreciate any advice anyone might have!
Brian
decvax!decwrl!rhea!msee!breaultjbecker@uiucdcsp.Uiuc.ARPA (07/10/85)
I built two bikes (built one frame, bought the other) many years ago by assembling a bunch of components. I don't think I saved much money even though all of the components were mail ordered, but I did get exactly what I wanted in terms of wheel/tire/hub type, seat, gear ratios, etc. which I couldn't have otherwise done in the $500 price range. Assembling a bike requires some special tools (which adds to the cost) but these will be needed later anyway for maintence work. I think if I were to buy another bike I would go the frame+parts route again - but then I like tinkering with bikes. Jeff jbecker@uiucdcs