Originally Posted by
SpecK
This makes sense, and that would probably be the point where I would consider upgrading as well, once I start to realize the limitations that can't be easily fixed on my current bike.
Yep. Some of the expensive upgrades I did to my old mtb carried over to my next builds (rack, bags, saddle) and others just progressively made my bike easier to climb steep gravel (which was an separate goal). So while I transitioned to a different tour bike I still use the benefits on the original for fun gravel grinding/mtbing. I didn't really lose anything but sweat equity.