AttacCycling is all about performance, style, and enjoyment. As cyclists, we often look for ways to upgrade our bikes in hopes of gaining that extra edge or simply enhancing the overall riding experience. However, not all upgrades are created equal, and some may even be downright unnecessary. Here are nine of the most overrated and wasteful bike upgrades that cyclists frequently buy—often to their regret.
1. Oversized Pulley Wheels
You've probably seen those oversized pulley wheels retrofitted onto derailleurs, and yes, they look cool. But if you're after a performance boost, the benefits are marginal at best. The idea behind these big pulley wheels is to reduce drivetrain friction by increasing the diameter, thus saving you a few watts. However, in reality, you might save about 3 watts, which is hardly worth the hefty price tag—ranging from £400 to £1,500 for some special editions. Worse, these upgrades can compromise the shifting quality of your rear derailleur, as they aren’t designed to work seamlessly with these aftermarket modifications.
If you love the look, go for it—it’s your bike, after all. But for performance, you'd be better off investing in aero clothing, wheels, or even optimizing your bike position.
2. Ceramic Bearings
Ceramic bearings are touted as the pinnacle of low friction and high performance. You’ll find them in various parts of your bike, such as the headset, bottom bracket, wheels, and even pulley wheels. While they do offer some resistance to corrosion and reduced friction, their benefits are often overstated.
For example, most ceramic bearings still use a steel race, which is softer than the ceramic balls, leading to quicker wear. Even the most advanced ceramic bearings may not justify their cost, as the performance gains are minimal and they tend to wear out just like their steel counterparts. If you do opt for ceramic, make sure the warranty is solid because you'll likely need it.
3. 3D Printed Saddles
3D printed technology is revolutionizing many industries, and cycling is no exception. Brands like Specialized and Fizik are offering 3D printed versions of their popular saddles, which promise superior comfort with custom-tuned zones for support and flexibility. However, just because it’s 3D printed doesn’t mean it’s more comfortable.
These saddles often come with a hefty price increase, sometimes up to £200 more than their traditional counterparts, and are typically heavier as well. Instead of jumping on the 3D printed bandwagon, consider starting with a well-designed, traditional saddle that suits your body and riding style. You might find that you don't need the latest tech to stay comfortable on long rides.
4. Cycling-Specific Cleaning Products
Cycling-specific cleaning products often come with a steep price tag, but they’re not necessarily better than standard alternatives. For example, you might pay 47% more for a cycling-specific water displacer compared to a generic one from a hardware store. Similarly, bike-specific shampoos can cost up to 78% more than car shampoos, which work just as well for cleaning your bike.
The truth is, even household items like washing-up liquid can do the job just fine without damaging your bike. So, before you shell out extra for a “cycling” label, consider whether a more affordable option will suffice.
5. Carbon Bottle Cages
Carbon fiber is a fantastic material for many bike components, but bottle cages are not one of them. Carbon bottle cages are prone to cracking and breaking due to the constant friction from inserting and removing bottles.
Although some brands offer carbon cages mixed with nylon, which are more durable, full carbon cages often fail under regular use. Instead, opt for a reliable plastic or hybrid cage that can withstand the rigors of cycling. You'll save money and avoid the frustration of broken gear.
6. Carbon Chain Rings
While carbon chain rings might save a few grams and look ultra-aerodynamic, they’re not the best choice for longevity. Chain rings with carbon teeth wear down quickly, especially under the stress of shifting and pedaling. This can lead to issues like chain drops or poor shifting performance.
These carbon chain rings are often race-day items due to their short lifespan. If you’re looking for a more practical upgrade, stick with metal chain rings or hybrids with carbon bases but metal teeth—they'll last longer and perform more consistently.
7. Super Expensive Low-Friction Chains
Low-friction chains are designed to save watts and boost efficiency, but they come with a high price tag and wear out just like any other chain. Given that chains are consumable parts that need regular replacement, investing in a super expensive low-friction chain might not be the best use of your money.
Instead, consider buying more affordable chains and replacing them more frequently. The performance gains from a super-fast chain quickly diminish once it starts getting dirty and worn out. You’re better off focusing on regular maintenance and timely replacements.
8. Preglued Patch Kits
Flat tires are an inevitable part of cycling, and having a patch kit on hand is essential. However, preglued patch kits often fail when you need them most. The adhesive on these patches is typically weak, leading to patches that don’t hold, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
For just a bit more effort, use a patch kit with a separate tube of glue. The bond will be stronger, and you won’t have to worry about your patch failing during a ride. It’s a small investment in time that can save you from a lot of frustration.
9. Upgrading to a 12-Speed Groupset Without Other Benefits
Upgrading from an 11-speed to a 12-speed groupset might sound like a significant enhancement, but if the only difference is an extra gear, it’s probably not worth the cost. This is especially true if you’re upgrading within the same performance range, such as from an 11-speed Ultegra to a 12-speed Ultegra.
Instead, focus on other aspects of your bike that might offer a more noticeable improvement, like wheels, tires, or a good bike fit. At the high end of the groupset spectrum, the returns diminish quickly, and an extra gear isn’t likely to revolutionize your riding experience.
Conclusion
When it comes to bike upgrades, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends and technologies. However, not all upgrades deliver the performance or value they promise. Before making an investment, consider whether the upgrade will truly enhance your cycling experience. Often, the best improvements come from optimizing what you already have or focusing on more impactful upgrades. Remember, it's your bike—upgrade it wisely!
