Carbon bits and bobs

[Bealz998]

Ello all I have a carrera tdf and really enjoy it tbf and as they were so cheap to buy for a decentish bike everyone has them so I really wanted to buy some carbon bit and bobs to look slightly more different and stylish does anyone know what I could buy etc

 

[fossala]

What do you mean bits and bobs? Forks, chainset, wheels, seat post, handlebars? I would recomend you don't buy anything for the bike, it's not going to perform much/any better.

If your mind is set putting lipstick on a pig, we would need to know your budget and what parts youu are looking for.

 

[Bealz998]

Sorry I mean like seat post, maybe headset and spacers just like small pieces not major parts as I know it's not going to change a lot and not to much money

 

[Mattonsea]

What do you mean bits and bobs? Forks, chainset, wheels, seat post, handlebars? I would recomend you don't buy anything for the bike, it's not going to perform much/any better.

If your mind is set putting lipstick on a pig, we would need to know your budget and what parts youu are looking for.

His Bike is as valid as yours. If he wants to add a few pieces to his bike that's great, Bealz just wanted some advice , not have his bike run down.

 

[SquareDaff]

Sorry I mean like seat post, maybe headset and spacers just like small pieces not major parts as I know it's not going to change a lot and not to much money

You can get carbon spacers from Halfords. Think they're about £8 for a set of various sizes but enough to do one stem. Seatposts - there's a big range in prices - been a while since I looked but I think you can get one for about £35 - also allow for the fact you'll need some carbon "paste" so it doesn't slip up and down when you clamp it. Some of the carbon effect bar tapes look quite good if you just want to "bling" your bike up a little!

 

[Dusty Bin]

Don't waste your money on pointless carbon bling. Spend it on useful stuff like tyres, or maybe even a new saddle. Even some new bar tape would make more practical sense than a couple of carbon spacers...

 

[fossala]

His Bike is as valid as yours. If he wants to add a few pieces to his bike that's great, Bealz just wanted some advice , not have his bike run down.

I'm not running down his bike and I'm sorry if I sounded harsh (to OP not you). What I was trying to say was that I wouldn't throw a lot of money into that bike. Anyway, you don't know what I ride. My current main bike cost around the same (second hand though).

 

[Mattonsea]

I'm not running down his bike and I'm sorry if I sounded harsh (to OP not you). What I was trying to say was that I wouldn't throw a lot of money into that bike. Anyway, you don't know what I ride. My current main bike cost around the same (second hand though).

Does not matter what any of us ride. as long as we enjoy it. Bike snobbery deters some people in getting involved .

 

[fossala]

Does not matter what any of us ride. as long as we enjoy it. Bike snobbery deters some people in getting involved .

I completly agree, but there is a difference between bike snobbery and pooring money into something that isn't worth it.

 

[jowwy]

I completly agree, but there is a difference between bike snobbery and pooring money into something that isn't worth it.

but to him it is worth it, otherwise he wouldn't be asking for the advice......

is anything worth what we all pay for it, probably not and if we could get the same item cheaper we would. Just cause he got a carrera TDF it doesn't mean he can't spend money on it

 

[Cubist]

However, eBay is littered with bits of cheap bling, all of which may do what the OP is asking, which is to make his bike look a bit more stylish. How about choosing a colour scheme and going for some bright anodised kit? Usually about the same weight as inexpensive carbon, but just as good money, and just as standout. For example some gold anodised chainring bolts, QR skewers and headset spacers with complimentary bar tape would customise the bike for pocket money.

A2Z do some inexpensive stuff, and Superstar components do all sorts, including seatposts in great colours.

Don't waste your money on pointless carbon bling. Spend it on useful stuff like tyres, or maybe even a new saddle. Even some new bar tape would make more practical sense than a couple of carbon spacers...

Indeed, but how about having a bit of fun at the same time? I have some dreadfully pointless colour coordinated bits on my MTBs. If I wanted something sensible I'd buy an anorak.

 

[fossyant]

Seatpin might look a bit better, and might make the ride more comfy (jury is out with me). Carbon spacers look nice and are cheap.

If you are looking to save a chunk of weight or performance some useful tips:-

Tyres - cheapest upgrade. Quality tyres like Michelin Pro Race, Conti GP400 or Schwalbe Ultremo - will make the bike feel much quicker
Wheels - Lighter better quality ones - don't go too mad, but Mavic Acksiums will be way better than stock
Saddle - you could easily save 200-300 grams on a stock saddle.
Bars/Stem - Many alloy stems and bars are just as light, yet stiffer than their carbon offerings - Ritchey WCS range being a prime example.

 

[Bealz998]

I'm after headset spacers, seat clamp headset maybe some yellow bits

 

[Cuchilo]

The first upgrades I am doing are things I can take with me if I upgrade the bike . Clip in pedals and shoes , computer type speedo gadget , seat , light bottle holders and now saving for the wheels .
Carbon seat posts and forks would cost a lot and an upgrade would have those two items anyway .

 

[Hacienda71]

I would get a nice finishing kit with yellow/gold annodised bits and pieces and get some new bar tape to match.