Core Creek

Hi! Last year I bought a brand new Contend 3 and actually put a ton of miles on it, including a century, a 75 miler, and a bunch of 30, 40 and 50 milers. Overall I’ve liked the bike, particularly the ergonomics, but I’ve had a ton of problems with the front derailer and toasted three chains already

Locally, someone is selling a 2009 TCR Advanced 2 with all Ultegra components. I know the current Ultegras are almost top-of-the line and slay the Sora components on the Contend, but how do the Ultegra components from 2009 compare? Am I really making that big of an upgrade? I would certainly appreciate the lighter and stiffer carbon fiber frame, but if 12 year Ultegra components aren’t really a step up I might just pass.

What do you all think?

Maelochs

Seems to me you'd be better buying new Ultegra for the Contend frame ..... If you like the Contend ..... Not sure what the front derailleur issue might be, but wouldn't you want to find out? Is it braze-on? If so is the mount misaligned from the factory? If somehow it is being set up wrong, what would happen if you had to adjust the TC derailleur?

Also .... after 12 years, the Ultegra bits might be pretty worn .... less strength in the derailleur return springs, and if the brifter internals are worn out, those are pretty much no repairable.

If you like the Contend, fix it .... and if you want another bike, still figure out what's up with the Contend, and shop for a garage queen, not a worn-out elderly ex-racer.

IMO.

PeteHski

Those are physically old components and a few steps behind the curve in design too. If the bike has been ridden regularly since 2009 then much of the drivetrain will be pretty worn - obviously depends on how well it was maintained and riding conditions etc. But 12 years is a long time for any used drivetrain. As the above suggestion, upgrading your existing drivetrain might be a better option.