Which Components?

[williamj]

Hey guys, I am getting back into MTBing and wanted to upgrade some of my components. For starters it is a Jamis hardtail that will see all around kind of use. I want to start with the derailluers, shifters and rear cassette. Any recomendations in general.
I want some decent stuff but can't afford top of the line. I don't really care as long as it is a step up from the deore crap on there now. I am thinking along the lines of Shimano XT but all imput is welcome.

[mikecj5cj8]

go to http://www.mtbr.com and you can look up every component there is with real world reviews on each. Plus you can by used stuff there too. That is how I built my bike.

[williamj]

cool, I have been to that website but totally forgot about it.
Thanks, any other opinions

[B43]

I am thinking along the lines of Shimano XT but all imput is welcome.

that is what i would recomend! cant go wrong, XT and XTR have always been good to me

[DieLucas!]

Single-speed. ENO rear hub (I wouldn't waste money on Surly crap). Do it.

[rockalot]

When saving money and still requiring performance XT is great.
Might check into Sram components as well.
If you still have an 8-speed you'll have to be careful when buying new components to make sure they are 8-speed compatible.

[williamj]

I wouldn't mind SRAM components, I just seem to see a lot less of them.

As for single speed, that would be awesome except for the fact my legs probably are not up for the task.

My bike currently has an 8 spd rear, but if I upgrade, I am going to change out everything to make it 9.

Thanks for the input guys.

[sloman]

If you have 8sp now odds are you can run 9sp without changing your hub. I can't think of any 8sp hubs that aren't 9sp compatible, but I don't know your setup so I can't say for sure. If you are more comfortable with shimano then XT is a fine choice. XTR is overkill for most of us. SRAM is a better value IMHO. If you like shimano trigger style shifters go with SRAM X.9 trigger with the X.9 rear derailleur. These perform as good or better than XT and will save you about $40-50.

OUt of curiosity, do you have a budget in mind? An XT upgrade isn't cheap. A minimal drivetrain upgrade (XT shifters = $100+, XT chain=~$18, XT Rear derailleur=$50+, XT cassette=$50+) will cost between $200-400 depending on which parts you choose (model, year, etc..). You should consider replacing your chainrings too if the teeth are worn, otherwise your new drivetrain won't feel so "new".

[williamj]

I did not have an exact budget in mind, it just depends on what I find. I know XT-R is way too much cash.

I will definitely look into the SRam components you listed. I do not really have a preference to shimano.

[JMyerz]

another vote for SRAM X7 or X9 both good stuff at low cost. Shimano charges way to much.

[zidaro]

shimano xt is smooth, durable, and easy to work on/repair/find replacements, relatively lightwieght.