Upgrading 1998 Cannondale F400

[Mr Singh]

Hey guys, first off, I'm new-ish to cycling and new to this forum here so forgive me for my lack of cycling knowledge.

About a year ago I bought a used 1998 Cannondale F400 (http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?year=1998&brand=Cannondale&model=F400) and I've been using ever since for commuting and the odd ride at the weekend along some light-ish trails or canal tow paths and such.

I'm thinking about upgrading this bike since I like it so much - starting with the wheels. I hear Mavic make some pretty good ones. I have a budget of up to say, £150 ($250). How would you rate the following choices:

Halo T2 wheelset
Mavic 317 wheelset
Mavic ex721 wheelset

(note: I've got v-brakes)

I've seen all 3 for sale in places on the internet for less than my budget but I've got no idea which to go for? I was thinking of getting some slick or semi slick tyres to go along with these, maybe some Specialised Fatboys for use when commuting.

Let me know if you have any ideas, even general ones for upgrading my bike in other ways!

 

[BalkanExpress]

I have 94 'Dale which I toy with the idea of up-grading but other projects get in the way

I'd start with the tyres as they can make a real difference at relatively little expense.

The next question is what currently needs replacing? How is the cassette, crank rings etc. I ask because if these need changing then it opens up a whole range of questions which will also have a potential impact on the choice of wheel/hub. Stay at 7 speed or go upwards revamping geras shifters etc? I do not say you should, and there is 7 speed stuff still around, but it's a question to ask.

I would also suggest that you go to http://www.retrobike.co.uk/ home of...err..retro bikes

Oh... and does it have porcupines?

 

[Mr Singh]

Thanks man, I couldn't wait any longer and got myself a pair of Mavic ex 721 wheels on DMR revolver hubs. Got some Specialized Fat Boy slicks to use when commuting too. It has an old set of Piranha tyres, too worn to see any other details to be honest. I'll probably throw these out and get some new ones for when I need them.

I'd say the rest of the bike works pretty well, brakes are still good, the ancient rock shox are still doing a great job. Most of the stuff associated with the drive train are working well, shifting is a bit clunky sometimes but it's not a problem.

The only thing I'm a little worried about now is the fact that my new wheels come with an 8 speed SRAM cassette. Either I can just move the old cassette over (if this is possible?) or add something called a spacer (I think) to the new cassette and hope that this works.