Top 5 | Expensive Road Bike Upgrades You Don't Need 2020

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 เม.ย. 2020
  • Whether it’s cool to admit it or not, upgrading your bike can be an addictive pastime. But some upgrades are more cost effective than others, so here are 5 we think most of us don’t really need.
    Before we get on with the show, remember, bikes are meant to be fun, so don’t worry if you have one of these upgrades, we do too, all that matters is you’re enjoying your riding.
    Let us know which upgrade you'd put on this list.
    Justin Setterfield / Staff
    Tim de Waele / Staff
    Top 5 | 2021 Road Bike Trends
    → www.youtube.com/watch?v=2naBg...
    Top 5 | Cheap Road Bike Upgrades That Will Make Your Bike Better
    → • Top 5 | Cheap Road Bik...
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  • กีฬา

ความคิดเห็น • 902

  • @bikeradar
    @bikeradar  4 ปีที่แล้ว +100

    What do you think about our list? Can you think of any upgrades we missed? Lets us know in the comments!

    • @stankozma6894
      @stankozma6894 4 ปีที่แล้ว +55

      Rapha jersey

    • @_FrankMatthews_
      @_FrankMatthews_ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What's the bike at 03:16?

    • @paulolsen6870
      @paulolsen6870 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I added a set of 50 mm Prime carbon clinchers for about the same cost as a decent set of alloy rims...I've only got about 300 miles on them, but so far so good. ✌

    • @matthiasschmitt2311
      @matthiasschmitt2311 4 ปีที่แล้ว +24

      The Carbon Handlebars in that list are bs in my eyes. Carbon handlebars are a crappy upgrade if your goal is the weigth saving. But if you wan't improve the comfort of your ride, it is one of the beste upgrades you can get.I would never ever want to ride aluminium handlebars, cause they are way not as comfortable as the carbon ones.

    • @jimhansen5395
      @jimhansen5395 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@matthiasschmitt2311 First upgrade that goes on any bike for me is a set of my favorite Enve Compact Road bars. These are pricey, but so much more comfortable than any alloy bar I've used, an well worth the money, considering how much my hands spend pressed against them.

  • @abedfo88
    @abedfo88 4 ปีที่แล้ว +898

    I prefer researching these things, agonising over them and then talking myself out of it haha.

    • @chrispyy606060606
      @chrispyy606060606 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      LOL exactly

    • @jg9008
      @jg9008 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      SAME

    • @michaelfield3668
      @michaelfield3668 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I'm going through this cycle right now, with a 1 piece cockpit 🤣

    • @abedfo88
      @abedfo88 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@michaelfield3668 so sexy, but so pricey.

    • @michaelfield3668
      @michaelfield3668 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@abedfo88 had a look at some Chinese ones, but they were like wet spaghetti 🤣

  • @neilmat71
    @neilmat71 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2199

    The best upgrade is losing lbs off your body.

    • @MichaelLargent
      @MichaelLargent 4 ปีที่แล้ว +50

      Faster on and off the bike.

    • @neilmat71
      @neilmat71 4 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      @@MichaelLargent deffo. Made a massive difference for me definitely in distance and climbing and not on "carbon".

    • @donaldmurray7529
      @donaldmurray7529 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Very true! For the first time in my life, I was able to lose weight over the winter. Definitely has made the most improvement in my speed/distance on the bike.

    • @bk83082
      @bk83082 4 ปีที่แล้ว +67

      I've never seen this comment made on every bike video ever.

    • @_FrankMatthews_
      @_FrankMatthews_ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      The second best upgrade is buying a $20000 superbike.

  • @boycefish1685
    @boycefish1685 4 ปีที่แล้ว +222

    Nailed it. Zero upgrades this year, downgraded my weight by 12kg, crushing every uphill segment I had on Strava.

    • @N3vill3
      @N3vill3 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      good on you! lol also, imagine the money you'd have to spend trying to lose 12kg off your bike

    • @GurkenCommander
      @GurkenCommander 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@N3vill3 if you want to save 12 kg on your bike, you would probably have to start running ;)

    • @matthiaskettner6686
      @matthiaskettner6686 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GurkenCommander Helium is the word!

    • @sathyaki
      @sathyaki 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@GurkenCommander we have an old fixed gear bike weighing around 18-20kg. I can upgrade to a lighter bike say of 7 kg,thereby losing 11-12 kg on bike right.(I knw u were joking though).

    • @octavelapize6657
      @octavelapize6657 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sathyaki but... that wouldn't be the same bike lol. You can't make that 20kg bike a 8kg bike.

  • @gemsandlasers269
    @gemsandlasers269 4 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    I think a medium-cost set of medium section carbon wheel (40-55 mm) is an amazing upgrade. A noticeable performance gain, but, perhaps more importantly, the massive upgrade in visual appeal of your bike is a big incentive to ride it more! Any money that gets you riding more often is money well spent.

  • @tofuyam7361
    @tofuyam7361 4 ปีที่แล้ว +376

    Carbon wheels were the best investment my friend made... cause he sold me is almost new wheels+cassette for 100$

    • @chepa1767
      @chepa1767 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Good deal, stonks

    • @sunofpeter2
      @sunofpeter2 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      hahahaha!

    • @treborriam
      @treborriam 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @iaon652
      @iaon652 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My words exactly! Let idiots spend money for expensive gimnicks, then buy all good stuf for scrapyard price from them.

    • @sepg5084
      @sepg5084 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@iaon652 only broke people call big spenders "idiots", while the real big spenders actually know how to make enough money to have that much disposable income.
      Unless it's fellow broke people that are the ones spending big.

  • @gabkoost
    @gabkoost 4 ปีที่แล้ว +449

    The best upgrade is whatever you need to have on a bike so that the guy in your riding group that you pretend to be friends with but secretly hate with all you guts because he married the girl you liked in high school, is forced to acknowledge that your machine bests his in every single aspect.
    I am not talking about me.

    • @adrianloewen9962
      @adrianloewen9962 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Still, what better way to show off to him the bullet you dodged, and the extra pocket cash you are still padding your pockets with(that he isn't), ha ha har!

    • @k-mac5511
      @k-mac5511 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@adrianloewen9962 OK

    • @gregwillis7520
      @gregwillis7520 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      If that fails, there's always therapy.

    • @ashrafsahdan5606
      @ashrafsahdan5606 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      oddly specific...

    • @charliewhelan9488
      @charliewhelan9488 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@maciek2295 his post actually shouldn't have any commas in at all, so I'm not sure what your point is

  • @carlshneebly7136
    @carlshneebly7136 4 ปีที่แล้ว +73

    Whenever I think about buying something, and this can actually apply to anything, the first thing I ask myself is “can I afford to replace it if I break it”. It really makes a difference in spending habits.

    • @TheMikeTGV
      @TheMikeTGV 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      this is really good advice !

    • @vascosaldanha602
      @vascosaldanha602 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yo, that's a great philosophy. I think I'll use it in my livr

    • @superflea72
      @superflea72 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      that makes absolutely no sense whatsoever...look after your gear and you shouldn't have to worry about 'breaking' it.

    • @AdrienBurg
      @AdrienBurg 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@superflea72 it does not only up to you whereas your stuff will break or not. Personaly I follow this advice and I get so much stress off my life with it

    • @adrianc6534
      @adrianc6534 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@superflea72 anything can happen. can you guarantee that you wont ever crash your bike? especially if you are riding off road or on rougher terrain, it is easy for things to get damaged. and you cant account for the stupidity of other riders/cars around you not to ruin your day.

  • @U20101954
    @U20101954 4 ปีที่แล้ว +254

    The reason of buying a carbon bar is not weight saving, but vibration dampening, especially if you regularly ride ~200km on not very well paved road

    • @philipk4475
      @philipk4475 4 ปีที่แล้ว +43

      Same goes for carbon seatpost and carbon saddles... The flex is real and makes a huge difference for long days in the saddle

    • @larsulveland2690
      @larsulveland2690 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      I second that. Saving on my last handlebar upgrade was the biggest mistake I made upgrading that bike. I had no idea that aluminium bars with the flatter wing-profile on the tops were that ridiculously hard, and I really need either that shape or twice as much padding.

    • @Strengthoftenmen
      @Strengthoftenmen 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      This

    • @B.A.512
      @B.A.512 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@philipk4475 good one. Steel can be an option too dampening and cost wise.

    • @jakehammond12345
      @jakehammond12345 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Bollox.

  • @YingMa-lt7to
    @YingMa-lt7to 4 ปีที่แล้ว +379

    you only need ceramicspeed when the company sponsors you

    • @MrMaxlo1
      @MrMaxlo1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      or you want to spend more for overpriced bad bearings

    • @nemeanf27
      @nemeanf27 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Ceramic bearings are only good in the short term as they offer slightly lower friction but they don't last as long. You'll be paying over the top prices more ofton replacing them. A set of high quality steel bearings with a good seal will completly outlast ceramic ones ( as for the friction you wouldn't notice the difference). Just a pitty that fools and their money are too easily parted.

    • @_FrankMatthews_
      @_FrankMatthews_ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Their products are mostly gimmicky and based on dubious science, but packaged and marketed extremely well. Similar to many audiophile products.
      Having said that, their UFO Drip seems to live up to the hype, for those who don't want to bother with immersion waxing. One of the best lubes available.
      I hope their Driven transmission system works out eventually though, just to make doubters like me look stupid.

    • @mgoo1713
      @mgoo1713 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      True, at the RPM bicycle bearing turn a good high quality bearing will be just as efficient...if not better..

    • @plasot
      @plasot 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Same applies to top groupsets

  • @DavidSmith-gj2dm
    @DavidSmith-gj2dm 4 ปีที่แล้ว +59

    Nothing feels worse than someone overtaking you on a cheap bike . Nothing feels better than overtaking someone on an expensive bike ! 😂

    • @VincentForDesign
      @VincentForDesign ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh yea, have been overtaking people on my Triban bike 😂 can relate to what you said

  • @Sevendaver
    @Sevendaver 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I started an early morning (06:00) core strength routine in January 3 months before my 70th birthday. No upgrade has ever matched the effectiveness of this routine.

  • @AntCPTube
    @AntCPTube 4 ปีที่แล้ว +91

    The best upgrade for my bike is that I stopped eating donuts

  • @guyhancox4246
    @guyhancox4246 4 ปีที่แล้ว +343

    If you want to go faster, eat fewer pies - which actually saves you money as well! Bingo.

    • @threadbear
      @threadbear 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      That's a big ask! :-)

    • @NhemF
      @NhemF 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      It always makes me laugh how guys who are 45 lbs over weight pay out so much money for lighter bike

    • @PoltergeistWorks
      @PoltergeistWorks 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Well actually you need a pie worth of calories if you want to push hard, energy doesn't come from nothing ;)

    • @DeekonJones
      @DeekonJones 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I’m reporting this comment... 😂🤣 jk

    • @se9865
      @se9865 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      But I like them.

  • @snwbrdn777
    @snwbrdn777 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    I have an entry level bike because I just don’t have the money for anything else. Maybe I’m just trying to make myself feel better, but I always tell myself the best upgrade is “get stronger”. If I can keep up with someone with $5000+ worth of kit on my $1000 bike that I bought 12 yrs ago, I’m a happy man.

    • @joelhenderson3723
      @joelhenderson3723 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sounds reasonable to me. Unless you're racing in the top 10 percent of cat 1-2, I don't see a reason for people to chase grams.

  • @mattylevo
    @mattylevo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +129

    You miss the main point with a handlebar upgrade...COMFORT! My carbon bars have saved my cervical/thoracic spine for excessive vibration/discomfort. Sure they weigh less, but 99.99% of riders do not need lighter spec kit...they need to be able to ride their bikes with as little aches and pains as possible. CARBON HANDLEBARS ARE THE BEST UPGRADE I have ever made to my bike, hands down!

    • @872463051
      @872463051 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Seriously upsetting that this is always overlooked with carbon handlebars. You just can't get the same compliance out of aluminum!

    • @ARMWRESTLINGCYCLINGFRANCE
      @ARMWRESTLINGCYCLINGFRANCE 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      I'd add that aero carbon bars have been wonderful for extending comfort on long rides. Having the wider flat surface is a great option for minimizing numbness when you are on a long ride.

    • @matthiasschmitt2311
      @matthiasschmitt2311 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I totally agree. The point on carbon handlebars is not the weight saving. It is the comfort! That upsets me so much that this point is allways overseen.

    • @kamfire98
      @kamfire98 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Agreed so glad I have mine and will the only I will part ways with them is from my cold dead hands!

    • @driventomadness117
      @driventomadness117 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@872463051 I thought carbon was supposed to be stiffer? Oh wait, it's stiffer and more compliant! Woah!

  • @davidzimmer5736
    @davidzimmer5736 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Being someone who works in the bike industry and talking to customers all day, I constantly tell them that wheels are the best upgrade a bike can get. This video is spot on, a lot of marginal gains for a hell of a lot more money

  • @3dScience8
    @3dScience8 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Best upgrade for my Bianchi was the Continental 5000 tyres. Huge improvement over my previous oem tyres

  • @evanreeves5966
    @evanreeves5966 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Bike Radar content is always so good. I can only hope you'll continue to stick to such a realistic and wholesome view of cycling. Cycling is fun, and it should stay that way.

  • @sealcycle2020
    @sealcycle2020 4 ปีที่แล้ว +64

    When the AK 47 and the Rolex Submariner made love they gave birth to the 105 Groupset!
    LOVE IT!!!! 100% INDESTRUCTABLE

    • @sakthivelv1777
      @sakthivelv1777 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Really mate, are they have more longitivity than Sora groupset ?

    • @sealcycle2020
      @sealcycle2020 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sakthivelv1777 I really do not know, I would assume Sora is good as well but I do not think Sora is 11 speed. BUT I would be willing to guess that Sora is a quality product.

    • @sakthivelv1777
      @sakthivelv1777 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sealcycle2020 Thank you

    • @svfutbol20
      @svfutbol20 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I love the feel of 105 but even Claris is a beast if you know how to keep it working properly. I regularily ride 50 miles on Claris

    • @marcuscheung5025
      @marcuscheung5025 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      my left 105 shifter broke

  • @Max-nh3gp
    @Max-nh3gp 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I work on a lot of bikes. I have messed around with a lot of parts, and I have ridden bikes from all different levels of cost, from 200$ Walmart bikes to 5k performance bikes.
    Upgrades in my opinion 100% depend on what you are starting with.
    If you put 500$ of upgrades onto a 1000$ bike, you will notice the difference instantly.
    If you put 1000$ worth of upgrades on a 2000$ bike, you will still notice a difference, but not as much.
    If you put 2000$ worth of upgrades on a 4000$ bike, you may or may not notice much of a difference at all.

    • @yonglingng5640
      @yonglingng5640 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      One of the upgrades (well, a loaner upgrade actually😅) I made to my bike was loaning my colleague's carbon wheelset (38 mm front 50 mm rear laced with Sapim CX-Ray on White Industries T11 hubs). On my first ride with the wheels, they roll a lot smoother than my own (2008 Mavic Aksium), but most of the improvement I felt was from the hubs since I couldn't deviate part of my attention to the carbon rims, so I didn't have a clear idea of the rim-wise improvement.
      I'm about to build my own new bike next year, all of which will be better than what I have now, but none of them are part of the snake oil hype (ceramic bearings, OSPWs, etc.).

    • @Actiontime70
      @Actiontime70 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey officer, this man shamed my bike’s price point 😡😡

  • @Mrich775
    @Mrich775 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Awesome video as always!

  • @alvinmarin8648
    @alvinmarin8648 4 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    I rarely upgrade, I just buy bikes that are spec'd to the amount I've learned the hard way.

    • @SorinVBogdan
      @SorinVBogdan 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You are making sense there

    • @beinnnabhfadhla6457
      @beinnnabhfadhla6457 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Buying a 2nd hand cycle at the required spec is always cheaper than upgrading later.

  • @hugobci
    @hugobci 4 ปีที่แล้ว +291

    All the expensive coffee and cake are considered bike upgrade? I spend a lot with coffee and cake in my rides

    • @bikeradar
      @bikeradar  4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      We agree! If considered an upgrade, it is surely one of the most important! Thanks for watching, from your friends at BikeRadar 🧁

    • @worralll0
      @worralll0 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      After upgrading to craft beers my wallet has never felt lighter.

    • @davidpggarrett
      @davidpggarrett 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bikeradar how about upgrading your food and drinks?

    • @davidpggarrett
      @davidpggarrett 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Make sure you don't pay over the odds for coffee and cakes! It's cheap here! #vistacyclingtuscany #vistacyclingtours

    • @majed2044
      @majed2044 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      😂😂😂😂😂

  • @stinkerseb595
    @stinkerseb595 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love this, we all need bling, but common sense and not being sucked in by constant spin by the industry is key! More time on the bike is what I really need!

  • @67daltonknox
    @67daltonknox 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    For money well spent I recommend Neugent Cycling. They have a tubeless ready 700c , 1580g alloy wheelset currently on sale at $235. I have had two pairs in the last 9 years and rate them highly. I agree with some other commentators who say that carbon bars are worth it for ride comfort with less vibration, and don't be afraid to buy Chinese cheapos. I don't know if I would risk them on a mountain bike, but for street I have had no issues.

  • @oheso
    @oheso 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Perfect, especially the note about the enjoyment of biking and upgrading at the beginning. And as someone else has said, if you're really in a position to benefit from the minute aero gains offered by expensive upgrades, then someone else is already paying for your equipment.

  • @loknloll
    @loknloll 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I used Campagnolo Chorus for years around 2000. Never failed, bullet proof. I swear my 6 year old Sram Rival set performs as well. I want snappy shifts and responsive brakes. Sram Rival is amazing. All in under 650 bucks.

    • @walterheimbuch9722
      @walterheimbuch9722 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I still use Chorus. Its easy to maintain and I can rebuild a shifter when needed.

    • @GTO90s
      @GTO90s ปีที่แล้ว

      Right now I use Schwinn 594 1990 under $600+ at least today.

  • @MichaelLargent
    @MichaelLargent 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This is the kind of video the world needs right now. Thanks for this.

    • @bikeradar
      @bikeradar  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for watching from your friends at BikeRadar!

  • @sudochugi
    @sudochugi 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My hands really make me suffer even on a full carbon frame bike. I invested in an FSA carbon bar with a nice flat area to spread the road vibration out. This has helped considerably. So if your hands turn to stone on longer rides, you might want to consider this addition. Ride on!

  • @11robotics
    @11robotics 4 ปีที่แล้ว +105

    Wheels-wise, in the past few years aluminium wheels have fallen out of fashion for reasons that I can hardly understand, even though their technology has made quite significant progress. It's been so easy lately to find high quality sub-1500g aluminium (rim brake) clincher 17C+ wheelsets that cost significantly less than 500€, and some of them are also bombproof. Meanwhile, half-decent carbon wheelsets start at prices way north of 500€ (excluding questionable aliexpress stuff), also weigh north of 1500g, and you could pay similar amounts on incredible wheelsets such as the Mavic R-Sys, the Campagnolo Shamal Mille or any of Tune's offerings. That being said, I find it hard to justify buying carbon wheels at all if you are spending less than, say, 1500€ on a wheelset (or 3.000€ on a complete bike), and I definitely do not understand why somebody would pay 500€ on an entry-level carbon wheelset from a questionable manufacturer instead of getting a lighter, cheaper and properly engineered aluminium wheelset from a reputable brand such as Mavic, Campagnolo or DT Swiss.
    And before you say "because aero", properly aerodynamic carbon aero wheelsets are usually way deeper than 35 mm and usually involve a hefty price tag, even heftier if you don't want them to weigh over 1800g. If you think any low-cost no-name 40mm deep carbon wheels are anything but marginally more aero than a pair of Campagnolo Zondas that cost half as much, are at least as light and are better engineered, you are sadly mistaken.

    • @JohnBaxendale
      @JohnBaxendale 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Because carbon wheels look nice. ~1000 EUR for a set of deep carbon wheels from Yoeleo, made up with DT swiss hubs and spokes. You really can't go wrong. If you really think making two circles out of (what is essentially plastic) is beyond the wit of the Chinese, then you're very sadly mistaken. Your loss ;)

    • @yannledoussal3458
      @yannledoussal3458 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I totally agree with you, here’s my choice : Kinlin XR-31T rims - Sapim CX-Ray spokes - Bitex RAR 12 hubs : hand built, 31 mm height, 19c, tubeless ready, 1440 g, 450 €. I would need to pay atleast 3 times the price to feel even a marginal gain…

    • @ltu42
      @ltu42 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@JohnBaxendale Precisely! €1000 on *just the looks*. And unless you're on disk brakes, a downgrade in braking performance, too.

    • @JohnBaxendale
      @JohnBaxendale 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Albertas Agejevas Not a downgrade if you count the aero - there’s very few deep dish alloy wheels that are as light. Brakes only make you slower, who wants to go slower ;)

    • @11robotics
      @11robotics 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@JohnBaxendale 1000€ for a set of deep carbon wheels - good, now how wide are they? How do they handle crosswinds? How much more than 1400g do they weigh? If they are properly deep (over 60mm or so), they should indeed be more aero. If you're talking about some sub-40 mm rims with the most default profile in the world, then it's mostly placebo ;) I'd still go for a pair of Shamal Mille instead anyway, they weigh close to nothing and they are a piece of art.

  • @kamfire98
    @kamfire98 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Opting for a good pair of aluminum wide tub less wheels for my new build but decided before watching this. Great video thanks for posting

  • @michaelo6870
    @michaelo6870 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It is true that individual upgrades make a relatively small difference. BUT it is usually the sum of several small upgrades that make the bigger difference.

  • @IraklyShanidze00X
    @IraklyShanidze00X 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Gels and sports nutrition can be effectively replaced by some super affordable alternatives. For instance, two tablespoons of honey in 250ml of costing next to nothing G2 electrolyte drink plus 250ml of water will give you the same amount of juice as two gels. Should you want to go all-natural, 200g of fresh seedless grapes and a bottle of water with a pinch of salt will propel you through a 1hr crit better than 20mg of Ritalin :)

    • @Kaoori97
      @Kaoori97 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      sugar water even cheaper mate

    • @IraklyShanidze00X
      @IraklyShanidze00X 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Kaoori97 nah, honey is all fructose, twice as much energy per unit of weight than sugar.

  • @JohnonaBike
    @JohnonaBike 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great to see some good honest advice.... so many people think they NEED to spend so MUCH to enjoy cycling

  • @ridewithgae1467
    @ridewithgae1467 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, as always

  • @fortylove68
    @fortylove68 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Solid advice. I enjoy buying used from local riders w deeper pockets, and I have used DHGate for some carbon parts that have worked out very well for a fraction of retail. But yeah, I know, china.

  • @michaeltuck5002
    @michaeltuck5002 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am in the process of upgrading from Sora to 105 based on a genuine need for more bloody gears... the last few sportifs I have done have seen me run out of gears on the climbs. So 105 front and back will do me. Love my Boardman 8.6 Alu its bomb proof, changed to a decent set of Mavic Askiums front and back, decent tyres and now all I have to loose is a couple of stone and I can smash the whippets on the climbs..... as long as I can double back on myself to scrape my lungs off the tarmac 1st :)

  • @SamirMishra6174
    @SamirMishra6174 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    great videos man

  • @gauloisrefractaireenexilvo4366
    @gauloisrefractaireenexilvo4366 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Spot on, you could do a similar Top 5 with clothing and footwear. Kits, jerseys and socks have become very fashionable over the past 3 or 5 years. Yet cycling is all about constant efforts + sticky sweat + unlimited mileage + great outdoors = 100% bliss.

  • @donaldmurray7529
    @donaldmurray7529 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Of those, the only one I can take any exception with are the carbon wheels. Yes, they are expensive but they make significantly more difference , when compared to the other upgrades on your list. And, you don't have to spend a ton. My Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3v wheels provide really good cost to benefit, IMHO.

  • @cnvertex
    @cnvertex 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video, honesty is too rare in TH-cam at the moment, we need it!

    • @bikeradar
      @bikeradar  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you liked it and thanks for watching from your friends at BikeRadar!

  • @ihbcsomerset6966
    @ihbcsomerset6966 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really useful and great overall message

  • @stephanmunz2692
    @stephanmunz2692 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I bought the RITCHEY Carbon Streem because of the look at first place tbh, but it was the best upgrade in 30 years in the end.
    Carbon brings you comfort, even if you are under 70 kg like me. Although I'am not Arnie, I can flex it a little bit.
    The wing-shaped top-section of the bar is great for climbing.
    I don't know if it really makes me faster, but if it looks aero, you always want to go fast. It's not "Doping für die Haare", but for your mind.

  • @walkerericsson7943
    @walkerericsson7943 4 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    The best way to make your computer more aero is actually to remove it.

  • @eliteharrington7377
    @eliteharrington7377 4 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    The best upgrade are the ones you make to your legs, lungs and dialing your ideal body weight.

    • @kamfire98
      @kamfire98 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      So true

    • @kyzzzz
      @kyzzzz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      EPO

  • @janhaanstra2245
    @janhaanstra2245 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Bikefitting! Upgrade your position; more aero and / or more efficient 😀

  • @maitrivihara
    @maitrivihara 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    a very good video. much better than i thought.
    i love how it says- if you are trying to best the world record, then the upgrades are worth it. otherwise its good to show off . but little else

  • @PatrickJamesKiernan
    @PatrickJamesKiernan 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    One of the most expensive upgrades I’ve resisted so far is disc brakes. After all, this means you have to buy a new bike. Makes those super light Cane Creek brakes look like a bargain...

    • @stewart8424
      @stewart8424 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      PatrickJamesKiernan disk breaks make no sense on a roadbike

    • @mangodesol
      @mangodesol 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Stewart why not. genuine question

    • @sevenrats
      @sevenrats 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@stewart8424 They do if you ride in big mountains and in bad weather. My road bike has rim brakes because I don't do either of those on that bike but I primarily mountain bike and THAT bike has disc brakes and it gets ridden in the wet sometimes but it goes down some hairy stuff and those brakes are powerful. I would say that that they're more than twice as good. I don't need brakes that good on my road bike but someone does.

    • @UnknownChimera
      @UnknownChimera 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Totally disagree. I cycle in Hong Kong where we have some crazy gradients and lot of humidity. Disc brakes are a life saver, especially with hydraulic system. I can go downhill safely without having crazy cramps in my forearm too !

  • @toastandpoop
    @toastandpoop 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    yup, best upgrades are the Engine and dealing with any junk in the trunk

  • @sjorsvandermeulen4285
    @sjorsvandermeulen4285 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice! A vid about things we don't need. I like. Make more.

  • @holgervanbargen9792
    @holgervanbargen9792 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    :D Great list: I am guilty of 4 out of 5 (and I found exactly the components you have in your video on my bike)

  • @Auntybob
    @Auntybob 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    The biggest thing to remember about groupsets, is that this years 105 is last years Ultegra...

    • @styxxtheanimal5720
      @styxxtheanimal5720 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I have just bought a Merida endurance 4000 and that has got the 105 gear on it ,, cant wait to get out there on the road. I was told that the current 105 is nearly as good as the old dura ace stuff so i recon ill be a happy man :)

  • @baranybumm
    @baranybumm 4 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    If u have money, use it, and enjoy it !

    • @BanacaNation
      @BanacaNation 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      baranybumm by sponsoring young cyclists with bikes for them to ride and races for them to compete in.

    • @Methodical2
      @Methodical2 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yeah, if you don’t someone else will.

    • @migssantino2101
      @migssantino2101 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      AMEN

  • @angela-onesroman8873
    @angela-onesroman8873 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very ADDICTIVE!!!

  • @godtiermedic
    @godtiermedic 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    This video is a perfect cool upgrade list

  • @DriesGntj
    @DriesGntj 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I don't agree with aero Handlebars being compared to pedals or computer mounts. It's true that you don't need it, but it's a very large surface that hits the wind first. After frame and wheels for sure the most important aero upgrade

  • @doom4067
    @doom4067 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    At the end of the day, only pros need the vast majority of upgrades in any sport.

  • @RevOwOlutionary
    @RevOwOlutionary 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The nice thing about being into bikepacking rather than road cycling is that I focus on logical and sensible upgrades, like that frame bag I totally need cause it just looks so cool, or that awesome anodized titanium bottle cage that I most definitely need cause it's just better than my current plastic one because reasons.

  • @ianw3811
    @ianw3811 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Carbon bars aren't just about saving weight. It is a major contact point, and it greatly helps in reducing road buzz, thus creating less stress on your wrists, and less fatigue for long rides.

  • @AhmadAlDouri
    @AhmadAlDouri 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Amazing! 💯 💯

  • @neil_down_south
    @neil_down_south 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Best upgrade for gaining watts is a turbo trainer, zwift (or similar) and a structured training programme. I'm using lockdown to do one month of daily FTP boost sessions.

    • @Vences5
      @Vences5 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Nice, I’ve been on Zwift during this time too. How long do you ride for?

    • @neil_down_south
      @neil_down_south 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Vences5 the zwift 4 week FTP booster programme is about an hour a day

  • @JFomo
    @JFomo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Heres a tip, if you have 105, upgrade to a Dura Ace chain. It's a lighter chain with a better finish, and only few bucks more expensive than the 105 chain.

  • @griffinjones6378
    @griffinjones6378 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    While I understand the nature of this video at its core, sometimes upgrades are just for me. I have expensive carbon wheels, the highest-end drivetrain, and carbon bars. They make my bike really light and comfortable, but they also make me happy knowing how nice they are and how nice they make my bike look.

  • @SeaSharp
    @SeaSharp 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    ENVEs and Lightweight may be a complete waste of cash for someone like me that is 10-15kgs above ideal weight - but man they look awesome. I want them haha!

    • @brixomatic
      @brixomatic 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Anything that makes you want to ride your bike is a good upgrade.

  • @xylerkajiyama7544
    @xylerkajiyama7544 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    And remember aero is EVERYTHING

  • @JohnLumapaskeith
    @JohnLumapaskeith 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Shimano 105: Groupset of the people!

  • @johngrassi822
    @johngrassi822 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is almost spot on correct. Get a great frame without compromise, great wheels that are aero dynamic enough but light hoops, and the rest is bling. Its not about the weight on the handle bars but rigidity and comfort. Flats are nice for the comfort alone.

  • @sodalitia
    @sodalitia 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Most of the friction in the bearings comes from the seals, second grease. Ceramic bearings are designed for high RPM, which never happen in bike. Furthermore, in medium range ceramic bearings the racers are steel, which causes harder balls pitting the race. Ceramic bearings will always wear out faster. Worn out ceramics are worse than steel bearings. Just buying medium range cartrige wheel bearings for your wheels, removing seals and replacing grease with light oil, would work better and be more cost effective as a monthly consumable than any ceramic bearings.

  • @paulinfrancis
    @paulinfrancis 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I didn’t buy a set of carbon bars for the weight saving, I bought them to make my aluminium bike less harsh, and it made a huge difference with regards to road buzz.

    • @knizama3534
      @knizama3534 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes u r..same goes to me.the main reason are reduce the road vibration..

  • @georgesarris5556
    @georgesarris5556 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Something not mentioned that I.m looking at, is aero helmet. I think this one of these would be worthwhile looking at.
    Also, I always choose Aloy bar and stem for least amount of flex for crit sprinting at weekly club races.

  • @aliflammim3
    @aliflammim3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Am seeing this 3 years late but haven't done anything to upgrade my bike yet. Save by this video. I agree many of the stuff we are recommended by bike shops are really unnecessary esp if the ride is just for fun.

  • @sueneilson896
    @sueneilson896 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Add super lightweight saddles, especially if any comfort is lost. In fact sacrificing any comfort for weight is a dumb idea.

    • @octavelapize6657
      @octavelapize6657 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      well depends what are your goals in cycling lol. And actually carbon is more comfortable and weight less, so most of the time you get more comfort and less weight at the same time

  • @calvintcs80
    @calvintcs80 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    oversize pulley wheels and carbon saddle rails. to me, titanium rails is good enough and the weight penalty is minimal.

  • @fengyink
    @fengyink 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Most cost efficient aero upgrade for me - fitted and quality jersey and shorts / tights. Aero efficient clothing can be ver costly - like those track clothing, yet they save the most aero dragging. Being a 40-year-old man and ride at 20mph pace, normal shorts and Tees (fitting once, not relaxed) makes -1.5mph compared to a well fitted jersey + shorts. Same man, same bike, same route and weather condition (around home), AB tested tens of times. No bike upgrade will make such difference - except, say, lower drop bar to make a more aggressive form.

  • @andreas.charalambides
    @andreas.charalambides 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    that one piece handlebar to hide the cables is my dream. I got obsessed and cant look at so many cables anymore

  • @kipcc3918
    @kipcc3918 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Carbon bars? Heck no, I don't regret that upgrade, It's legit vibration absorbing rather than alloy handlebars.
    You should just know where to look. Aliexpress is one good place to look, since every carbon part of a bike, mostly comes from china.

    • @HumaneNewt
      @HumaneNewt 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Toseek carbon handlebars meant to be good

  • @elviracatherinetalaoc2070
    @elviracatherinetalaoc2070 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I upgraded my handlebar to a carbon , due to I have carpal tunnel on both hands it help a lot on the vibration on the bad road.

    • @StuninRub
      @StuninRub 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Carbon vibrates more then metals. If you really wanted to minimize vibrations titanium or mild steel would have been the best what to do that.

    • @einundsiebenziger5488
      @einundsiebenziger5488 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@StuninRub Carbon does not vibrate more than* metals. All materials vibrate, but the amplitude of vibrations of metal are bigger and last longer than those in a non-metal fiber. Also, titanium is no better in vibration damping than any other metal, any claims in that regards are myths. Lastly, nobody makes road bike handlebars from titanium and those from steel are only useful in track bikes.

    • @StuninRub
      @StuninRub 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@einundsiebenziger5488 carbon vibrates more then metals.

    • @siromj8885
      @siromj8885 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@einundsiebenziger5488 Then Titanium should be your choice..

  • @stevem9353
    @stevem9353 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Spot on , u find do clothing , h@ve to say in winter , spend as much as u can on the best cold and wet gear , makes a massive difference

  • @TheDestroyer8065
    @TheDestroyer8065 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Everyone has a different satisfaction of happiness. some bought and own a bike just to have a ride on the road, while others bought an expensive bike and upgrades what is best are available in the market in order to feel happy and satisfied.

  • @0134harley
    @0134harley 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The best upgrades which money can’t buy is a clean , shiny bike , well maintained drivetrain 🤩

  • @Dreiiii
    @Dreiiii 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I’ve been biking on a competitive level for almost 3/4 of my life and one thing i know for sure, is that someone that has all these upgrades and YET, can’t keep up on a recovery ride will be laughed at.
    So, I think that should be a good enough reason not to buy those upgrades if you are not getting sponsored.

    • @dougsrosen
      @dougsrosen 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Way to pass judgement. Glad the cycling community can look upon you the great Dreiii as the arbiter of all that is allowed and acceptable for someones hobby.

    • @Dreiiii
      @Dreiiii 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dougsrosen Listen, if you feel judged because your bike costs 15k and yet, your FTP is below 130 watts... I'd feel shame too.

    • @dougsrosen
      @dougsrosen 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Dreiiii Again, a lot of projection and shame coming from your comments. I pity you and hope as you grow and mature you can help others who were like you.

  • @timdixo
    @timdixo 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    All spot on except thumbing down those fancy looking flat top bars....they’re actually far more comfortable on the palm than most aluminium bars both on the tops and at the transition to the the hoods.

  • @mikeclements4548
    @mikeclements4548 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yep spot on

  • @jshepard5840
    @jshepard5840 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I for one can attest that the Chinese carbon wheels are amazing for the price. I currently have a set of the Super Team wheels on my road bike and for the $225 I paid for them on Amazon, they can't be beat. 5,000 kms on them so far and they're still as true as day one.

    • @cryora
      @cryora ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They are like $350+ now.

    • @GTO90s
      @GTO90s ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@cryora right!

  • @hubdeep9452
    @hubdeep9452 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    There's no feeling quite like the smug feeling of getting a KOM on a 20 - 30 year old bike. Upgrade yourself, lose weight, train sensibly and just enjoy riding what you ride.

  • @christophertrapp4195
    @christophertrapp4195 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Carbon bars can add a bit of compliance right where you want it most. Depending on your situation, they can definitely be worth it.

  • @lucacycles8623
    @lucacycles8623 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love this

    • @bikeradar
      @bikeradar  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching!

  • @lgmmy5612
    @lgmmy5612 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    One rule to remember: What suits you.
    This is my experience:
    Handle bar: upgraded to carbon aero drop bar from a $4 alloy drop bar
    Crankset: upgraded to R7000 crankset from an $25 alloy crankset.
    Wheels: upgraded to carbon wheel from alloy.
    Jockey wheels: upgraded to ceramic from normal one.
    Derailleur: upgraded to some $50 11 speed derailleur(about 105 level) from $3 7 speed derailleur that I used on a 10 speed drivetrain.
    And so on...I won't list all of them out here.
    I couldn't tell the difference between the upgrades and the old one. They are just more bling. That's all.

  • @jakreyno
    @jakreyno 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I though the best upgrades were the friends we made along the way.

  • @keiferpadilla5165
    @keiferpadilla5165 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you!

  • @M3GRSD
    @M3GRSD 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    There's a psychological effect that upgrading your bike has. Even if the upgrade is expensive and not worth it, it makes you feel better about your bike. Excited to ride, and eager to go further. I speak from experience, the upgrades I made were probably unnecessary, but I did it for me, and I lost over 50lbs along with making me a stronger cyclist.

  • @joaquingarcia3903
    @joaquingarcia3903 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Disagree w the wheels. I’ve ridden many bikes w different sets of wheels (carbon and aluminum) and I’ve never been more impressed than riding my enve wheels. Both in ride quality and over all fun factor. My $0.02

    • @dmitryantipov303
      @dmitryantipov303 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally agree. As for my own experience, there is a notable difference in handling, braking, whatever else between Campagnolo Eurus and medium-profile Bora Ultra 35. Anyone who doesn't feel the difference should go to ride the mall's shopping cart and not the real road bike.

  • @Vidsandso
    @Vidsandso 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I disagree on Carbon bars. Carbon bars add a huge level of comfort by absorbing vibrations and also dont corrode as alloy bars do.

    • @andrewholt7505
      @andrewholt7505 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally agree. Carbon bars are first upgrade for comfort and control. Makes an amazing difference, but you have to get the right bar.
      The guys should have known this....

  • @FrettieFingers
    @FrettieFingers 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I upgraded my carbon bike from Ultegra 6800 to Dura Ace 9100. (Huge improvement but maybe less with Ultegra 8000) Now my bike shifts almost as smooth as my steel frame Shimano 600.

  • @marcelschlebos3975
    @marcelschlebos3975 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Finaly a video that makes sense. Always This is what you need/upgrade/have to buy.
    Love This video Guys.👍🏻

  • @brianbaxter2595
    @brianbaxter2595 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    If I had a dollar for every time I rode my bike fitted with aluminum (Zonda) wheels while pulling riders on their fancy deep carbon wheels I'd be a rich man. Hold on! Perhaps I did get rich! I recently bought 50 mm carbon wheels. No idea if I'm faster but they feel great and look so sexy!

    • @tonyharrison447
      @tonyharrison447 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well you're certainly poorer following your purchase!

  • @mikeportnoy7622
    @mikeportnoy7622 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Moral of the story:
    learn to be contented with what you have. And one more thing. It's all about the rider and not the bike.

  • @kestralrider313
    @kestralrider313 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I tend to agree with the list outside of the handlebars. Personally, I feel the shock absorption advantages is reason alone to go with carbon handlebars. An additional benefit is the aero tops advantage which isn't really available with aluminum. The flatter tops also feel better when climbing on the tops for long periods. Weight advantage might be 3rd on my list of reasons to go carbon handlebars.

  • @xtra9996
    @xtra9996 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks for the inspiration. I'm now going to buy a carbon / aero handlebar, a ceramic bb and (you didn't mention it) a powermeter.

    • @sepg5084
      @sepg5084 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Buy a carbon speedometer holder, carbon valve cap, and a carbon bottle holder too, for good measure.

    • @octavelapize6657
      @octavelapize6657 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@sepg5084 carbon valve cap lol does that even exist ? I mean if you want to save weight on the cap just don't put it back on ahah