Recommendations for new shifters, chain and cassette (Specialized Sirrus 2009)

[Dafne123]

Hi everybody!

I would like some advice as I need to get new shifters, a new chain (and possibly a new cassette) for my Specialized Sirrus 2009, a hybrid which is almost a road bike I'd say.
I've had the bike for 2 years now. I've used it to commute almost every day (around 6 miles per day) so I think it's about time...

You can find the specs here:
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/sirrus-2009-road-bike-ec016920


First of all, I am going to change the original shifters, which are not working properly.
They are Shimano Revo, 8-speed twist shifters.

I was recommended to get some thumb shifters which are supposed to be more reliable than grip ones.

My budget is not excessively high, but I don't want to get something very very cheap.

Secondly, I need to change the original chain (KMC Z-51 8 speed). I am considering a SRAM. Anyadvice is more than welcome.

Lastly, I am contemplating gettting a new cassette, if I find a good deal. The original one is a Shimano HG-40, 8-speed, 11-32 tooth range
Again I would really appreciate it if you could give me some recommendations.


Thanks a lot!!

 

[CalicoCat]

Originally Posted by Dafne123 .

Hi everybody!

I would like some advice as I need to get new shifters, a new chain (and possibly a new cassette) for my Specialized Sirrus 2009, a hybrid which is almost a road bike I'd say.
I've had the bike for 2 years now. I've used it to commute almost every day (around 6 miles per day) so I think it's about time...

You can find the specs here:
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/sirrus-2009-road-bike-ec016920


First of all, I am going to change the original shifters, which are not working properly.
They are Shimano Revo, 8-speed twist shifters.

I was recommended to get some thumb shifters which are supposed to be more reliable than grip ones.

My budget is not excessively high, but I don't want to get something very very cheap.

Secondly, I need to change the original chain (KMC Z-51 8 speed). I am considering a SRAM. Anyadvice is more than welcome.

Lastly, I am contemplating gettting a new cassette, if I find a good deal. The original one is a Shimano HG-40, 8-speed, 11-32 tooth range
Again I would really appreciate it if you could give me some recommendations.


Thanks a lot!!

Are you basing your decision to replace chain/cassette only on mileage? If so, I would say that even if you have 3000mi on your current equipment, that doesn't necessarily mean that it is time to change things out. I ride a lot more than you (~5000mi annually), but only replace my chain at the beginning of each season. Chain wear can be caused by a lot of different factors, but mostly "load". If you don't do a ton of climbing, for example (or sprinting), putting massive load on your chain, a chain can last a long time. A cassette can last even longer. So have your LBS take a look, or try to measure chain wear on you own. Chances are, yours are still OK.

 

[64Paramount]

And have you had the shifters checked by your LBS to make sure they are adjusted correctly? That could be an easy and inexpensive fix..

 

[oldbobcat]

All of the above advice is good, but should you decide to upgrade anyway, here's mine. Chains should be replaced when they show over 1% stretch. That usually happens at 2000-4000 miles. Obviously, clean and well-lubricated chains last longer. The SRAM PC850 chain should work fine. My rate for cassette wear is about one cassette for every two or three chains. A Shimano HG50 cassette will work fine with that SRAM 8-speed chain. As for the shifters, the Shimano Alivio set should be quite satisfactory. We've used them to replace old, broken Deore 8-speed shifters and the customers were very happy.