DirePenguin

I’m starting this thread as an alternative to the sort of threads that go: “Just got a brand new <insert brand and model>, what should I upgrade first?”

My previous bike was a 2018 Trek Domane ALR 5, which I never upgraded in any way and was really happy with it. Unfortunately, it was recently destroyed when I was struck by a car.

I was lucky enough to find a 2022 Domane SL5 in my size and don’t see any reason why I’d want to upgrade it, either.

So, are there any other riders that don’t have upgrade-itis? 😊

Iride01 

No, I'm still happy with my 2020 Specialized Tarmac. I changed stem, bars and crank. But those were about fit more so than upgrade-itis.

Might get new bike fever in a year or two. <grin>

Mojo31

Lol. I have a 2020 Domane SL5, and have changed a lot of it. It’s crazy, but there will probably be more.

WhyFi

Yes - those with low standards.

WhyFi

It'sajoke.

When it comes to most hobbies, I tend to (over-) research, then handwring, and then upgrade. Then I'm happy with it for several years.

rjones28 

Not currently.

rjones28 

Or is that currently.

yaw

I think in general people are not any better for riding a stock bike, nor are other people any worse for upgrading heavily. It all depends.

If one is buying the most appropriate component level from the start through a bit of consideration and research, then perhaps replaces certain parts to make a significant difference for personal fit and comfort, and upgrades, or carries over, underspecified but important parts to better match actual safety and performance needs, then that sounds like a scenario where someone puts together a fit for purpose bike - a wonderful companion for our activity. Far better than someone who buys a stock bike with the wrong saddle, out of the box stem length, on crappy tyres, and thinks that is a long-term savvy position. If everything fits and is appropriate right out of the catalogue, then that is indeed a fortunate and simple bike purchase.

But of course people can also be very irrational about it, perhaps a touch obsessive, sometimes compensating, perhaps chasing a series of short term escapes, particularly problematic if it constitutes a disproportionate burden on other aspects of life, all things considered. In that case it's just the same expression of other elements of dissatisfaction or psychological issues to be worked out. Fortunately, even here, a bike is potentially a healthier object than many other options for people going through this.

So not having "upgrade-it is" is not a badge of honour. Being appropriate rules it all.

rjones28 

So, do you have "upgrade-itis" or not?

indyfabz

I could only downgrade from where I currently am, so no.

Mojo31

Otherwise, I’d wait to see if you disappear in Detroit before doing anything.

qwaalodge

When I change parts in my bike, for example, buying a frame with more tire clearance, it is the SAME brand new price as the part it's replacing. It's NOT lighter, NOT better quality. Value-wise, it's the same

Would that be considered an upgrade??

bamboobike4

As my newest bike is 2011, no plans to not upgrade….

But not much.

GhostRider62

I never upgrade because I start with the best for my use and when it eventually wears out, I replace it.

Ride up grades, don't buy them

Troul 

Depends on the grade to which I may decide an upgrade is warranted.

genejockey 

Nah. If I feel like riding something different from what I'm riding, I choose one of my other 9 bikes.

Seattle Forrest

Same. I'm in the several years stage right now, and feeling pretty vindicated. 🙂

seypat

Upgrade can mean different things to different people. Is a 105 drivetrain an upgrade over an Ultegra or DA drivetrain with 1 less speed/rear cluster? Some would say yes. Others would say no.

Random11

I've changed tires, and changed my cassette to get gearing better suited to my rides, but I wouldn't call that upgrading. The bikes I bought had the components I wanted.

indyfabz

I’m planning on riding a lot of upgrades in Vermont this June. Does that count?

Litespud

I largely gave up needless upgrading about 15 years ago when I deemed my bike (LS Vortex with Chorus 10) to be close to perfect in my eyes. I have replaced wear items with identical, and a couple of years ago I blew a whole $350 on some new Campagnolo wheels just for the hell of it. If/when Campagnolo introduce a Chorus-level EPS drivetrain, I may upgrade, but that's the only thing that would shake me loose from 10sp mechanical.,

Chuck M 

Not me. Like the OP's previous bike, my last new bike purchase was a 2018 Domane ALR5. For my purpose it will suit me a good long time. I think the tires and chain I replaced the originals with is somewhat of an upgrade. But those items were only replaced after using the old ones to their maximum life, not due to an urge to upgrade. I take the same approach with accessories like lights, gps units, etc. with the only "upgrade" being mounting the Garmin and light with a Blendr mount if you can call that an upgrade.

Koyote

Or those who simply bought the right bike?

NRissy

I have no reason to upgrade. I have entry level road and mountain bike that don't get the miles on them that they deserve. I spend most of my time riding my tandem with my sons. I won't be upgrading. I will be purchasing new bikes for them as they outgrow their current bikes; but until then; I am not going to worry about it.
I have a nice road bike. I have a nice 29er hard tail. I have a nice tandem. I have a beater bike. I am set.

Now... a gravel set up! I might need on of those to sit in the garage and not get the miles it deserves ridden on it as well.

big john

I think he has "overanalyze-itis".