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giant crx component upgrades

Started by wmak · · Last activity · 9 posts · 2,345 views

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01 / Original postgiant crx component upgradeswmak · 2 Dec 2007 02 / This pagePosts 1–9Page 1 of 1 · chronological order 03 / Latest replyPost #9thepeddler · 12 Dec 2007

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Original section
Cycling Equipment
Published
2 December 2007
Last activity
12 December 2007
Original author
wmak
Posts
9
Discussion status
Public discussion
Total views
2,345
Views / 30 days
0
Topics
Bottom bracketsFront derailleursPunctures and flatsRear derailleursWet weather gear

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  1. Original post
    wmak
    Archived post
    #1

    Hi

    I just got my first bike yesterda a Giant CRX4 hoping to do more fitness riding on the weekend and eventually to work after humidity dies down a bit.

    I didn't get the CRX3 or any other CRX because of my budget but also I want to make sure I will still be riding after 6 - 12 months.

    However I do realise after that time i might need to upgrade some components as it comes with Shimano 2200 which I have been told is their bottom of the range stuff. So my question is what type of upgrades should I be looking at next if I wanted to spend $200-300? Most my riding will be on bike paths.

    Full specs are as follows:
    http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-AU/bikes/road/1127/28921/

    Any help will be appreciated thanks.

    Report
  2. gclark8
    Archived post
    #2

    I have worked on many CRX4s, in my experience, the choices are:

    1. Tyres, 23mm Conti Ultra Gatorskins
    1a. Strapless Toe Clips
    1b. A proper bell, not a little ding.
    2. Rear cassette, KMC 11-24 (with TX71)
    3. Crankset (30/42/52, 170 or 175mm arms) , Bottom Bracket (UN26), Chain (KMC Z92), Front Derailleur (FD-R443).
    4. Stem Riser, lifts the bars 100mm. (Zoom, Dimension, Heads-up)
    5. 36 spoke wheels (heavy rider)
    6. Bar ends, ergo. (pro or trans-x)
    7. Mudguards, alloy or Clip-on
    8. Crankset with 160mm arms, for a guy with a double knee replacement.

    No one I know of has yet needed to change the rear derailleur. In fact, I use RD-2200 on the new entry level 8 speed Tri Bikes I build.

    Report
  3. thepeddler
    Archived post
    #3

    I have a CRX 4 and have added some of the same stuff George has, bar-ends, gatorskins, toeclips.

    Even though the derailleur is considered to be bottom of the range I have no problem with it. It shifts smoothly and easily.

    I would just ride it and see how you go. If necessary make some changes once you have broken it in a bit. Initially you may want a new saddle, bar-ends etc.

    Enjoy your cycling🙂

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  4. thepeddler
    Archived post
    #4

    Hi George,

    I am thinking of a new saddle for the CRX 4, any suggestions?

    I am currently commuting 33 km (one way) to work about 3 times a week and a couple of hours riding on Sunday.

    I way about 105 kg and I am about 190 cm tall.

    I understand that saddles can be a subjective thing but there must be some that stand out above the others?

    Report
  5. wmak
    Archived post
    #5

    So the upgrades are most dependent on how comfortable the ride is. My problem is I don't know what can be achieved in terms with comfort. I'll see how it goes but keep the discussions happening.

    So what does the gatorskins improve? What is the saddle (is that the seat?)

    Thanks

    Report
  6. thepeddler
    Archived post
    #6

    Hi Wmak,

    The gatorskins offer more protection from punctures while still having decent "rolling" ability. Bar-ends will give you more hand positions on long rides. This can help you avoid having numbness in your hands due to pressure. Toe clips should help with your pedding efficiency.

    A saddle is a seat. Again ride your bike for a bit and see how you like the saddle on the CRX. If you find it uncomfortable change it.

    George can probably advise you about the technical issues when it comes to cassettes, stem risers, cranksets etc as he builds bikes.

    cheers

    Report
  7. gclark8
    Archived post
    #7
    thepeddler said:

    Hi George,

    I am thinking of a new saddle for the CRX 4, any suggestions?

    I am currently commuting 33 km (one way) to work about 3 times a week and a couple of hours riding on Sunday.

    I way about 105 kg and I am about 190 cm tall.

    I understand that saddles can be a subjective thing but there must be some that stand out above the others?

    Serfas RX Mens. 😉

    Quoted post said:

    George can probably advise you about the technical issues when it comes to cassettes, stem risers, cranksets etc, as he builds bikes.

    One I finished this evening.

    Report
  8. thepeddler
    Archived post
    #8
    gclark8 said:

    Serfas RX Mens. 😉

    Thanks George, I will check it out.

    Report
  9. thepeddler
    Archived post
    #9

    Hi George/Wmak,

    I purchased the saddle you recommended George (Serfas RX) and find it really comfortable.

    I decided to go back to the 700 x 28 tyres as I found the 700 x 23 tyres to harsh a ride. Also I kept getting punctures with the gatorskins???

    I decided I would rather be a bit slower but have more comfort. The 28's combined with the new saddle make for a much more comfortable and thus more enjoyable commute.

    cheers,

    peddler

    Report

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