Upgrading some bits on the Bike

My bike is a Kuota Kharma, 2010. Got it as a year old model, saved some cash. I loved the look of it, so slapped it up. I knew very little about what I was buying, the parts on it, etc. I heard the word Ultegra so got that.

Now that I’ve put some miles on it, there are some things I don’t like, or rather that I think could be improved.

Brakes

It came with “Kuota Race” calipers. They work, but they don’t have bite. I have since ridden a couple friends’ bikes with Ultegra calipers and they really stop! So that’s number one, have put in an order to get these calipers!

Cassette

I’ve got a compact crank. One would think that would help me up the hills…. I also recently got a new cassette, a 28 for the rear. Still tough for some of these climbs to keep up a spin for me! Rumor has it that an SRAM 32 cassette will fit an Ultegra derailleur. Going for this upgrade to check it out!

Derailleur
Turns out that my current Ultegra derailleur is ‘normal’ and I need a longer one, called a GS. That will allow a big cassette in the back without fear of damaging the derailleur due to stupid shifting, which I’m perfectly capable of. So having to get this as well!

Soon to have lots of spare parts.

I’ve been going to see Taku at Alpha Cycles in Kitazawa for help on doing some wrenching. Very nice shop, and the coffee is quite good, made from freshly ground beans! Can’t beat that!