New bike vs. new components

[mariacycle]

Have you gone to your LBS and asked for a quote or opinion?

[indysteel]

I'm partial to steel bikes, so I'd probably fix up what you already have. To my tastes, it would be better than what your budget will allow you to buy new. What model is your Trek? Is the frame in good shape?

[ny biker]

Have you done any long rides on your bike? Any aches and pains that might indicate a fit problem?

I would ride the bike you have for a while. If you're generally comfortable and don't have a fit problem that can't be solved with your current frame, then new components might be the best course of action.

[OakLeaf]

I had the same dilemma a few years back and opted for a new bike. My budget was quite a bit higher, and it was still not much more money to buy a new bike than to totally refit the old frame (parts only, doing all the labor myself except for getting the rear triangle cold-set to accommodate a 10-speed cassette hub). Then of course there's the hassle factor, all that work instead of just going to the LBS and plunking down my debit card...

There's the regret factor though, that you can't really put a price tag on. I feel bad about not riding my old bike. One of these days I will get that thing back on the road.

[Geonz]

I agree with asking the question: what don't you like about the current wheels? Has it gone long before?

What it feels like is IMO the most important. If you're gonna be on it for a hunnert miles, you want what works. If this one's only "pretty good" I'd definitely be shopping -- tho' I'd also explore those little tweaks that can make for a better fit.

[ny biker]

Another thing to consider -- for your budget, you would wind up with an aluminum bike. You might be very happy with it, but as Indysteel indicated, there are more than a few folks here who do strongly prefer steel.

You can test ride a few new bikes in your price range to get a feel for differences in fit, components, and frame material, to help with your decision.

[indysteel]

Another thing to consider -- for your budget, you would wind up with an aluminum bike. You might be very happy with it, but as Indysteel indicated, there are more than a few folks here who do strongly prefer steel.

You can test ride a few new bikes in your price range to get a feel for differences in fit, components, and frame material, to help with your decision.

My response was largely based on the assumption that the OP would likely end up with an aluminum frame, which may or may not be a big improvement. But others have raised good points. If the Trek just fits so so, then fixing it up doesn't make a ton of sense.

Still, I'm a big fan a steel, especially for long rides!

[warneral]

500-900 wouldn't buy a very nice bike in my opinion. Steel rocks I upgraded from aluminum frame, carbon fork with low end parts to steel frame, carbon fork and high end parts and am living with the bike of my dreams Nicer wheels, better components will suit you well I think! I'd keep the frame as long as you are happy with fit.

[warneral]

ps you CAN adjust fit with the frame you have as long as you are in the right window. New stem, seat setback post, etc.