Upgrade

[BikeHN]

I'm thinking about making an upgrade on my road bike, & I need a little advice on which upgrade I should get. Everything on my bike is stock (giant avail advanced II). Should I get new rims/tires first? Gears? I'm looking to spend about $500 is that enough to even get an upgrade??

[Biciclista]

I think 500 dollars judiciously spent would make your bike nicer, yes. Do you have a LBS that you trust? Are you doing it for yourself?
I have heard that the single biggest improvement you can make for speed and lightness would be wheels.

[ehirsch83]

What wheels do you have now and what components do you have?

[BikeHN]

All factory.....

Frame Giant Advanced Composite
Fork Giant Advanced Composite w/aluminum steerer
Rims/Wheels Giant P-R2
Hubs Formula sealed
Spokes SAPIM Race 14/15g
Tires Giant P-R3, 700 x 25c
Crankset FSA Gossamer MegaExo
Chainwheel 50/34
Front Derailleur Shimano 105
Rear Derailleur Shimano 105
Rear Cogs Shimano 105, 10-speed: 11-28
Shifters Shimano 105, STI
Handlebars Giant Connect for women
Stem Giant Connect
Brake Levers Shimano 105
Brakes Tektro TK-R540
Saddle Selle Royal Seta, Women's
Seat Post Giant Vector Composite

[Sky King]

The question that comes to mind "What is the reason for the upgrade" What are you wanting to achieve? I agree with Mimi, wheels and tires are a great place to start be it for comfort, less rolling resistance or a desire to feel like you are riding faster.

[ehirsch83]

I agree with Sky King.

105 components are decent, so you don't need to upgrade those right now.

But besides the wheels, how does the stock saddle feel and the handlebars?

[indysteel]

I'd echo what Sky King has said and add this: I personally don't upgrade parts that tend to wear out over time until they have, in fact, worn out or are otherwise not functioning. So, before you make any decision on what to spend your $500 on, I'd figure out if anything actually needs to be replaced. Is your cassette and chain worn? How about your chainrings? Have your bike shop give it a good once over.

If everything's in working order, then I'd personally go with new wheels. My first big upgrade on my road bike was a set of hand built wheels. Now, I'm not sure what you'll get for $500 and how they'll compare (especially weight-wise) with what you have now. Just make sure you make that comparison before spending the money.

[BikeHN]

Thanks Biciclista. There are a few LBS around but I wanted to get some outside opinions before I walk in & ask them. Definitely, not doing the upgrades myself. :P