Built in obsolescence? Maybe not - it just hurts

[aussie]

Ya know...over the past week, I've found that I needed some new gear (well actually quite a lot really) for my mountain bike. I might point out at this time that I do service it regularly - it just so happens that 'stuff' needed to be done all at once.

OK - now I know it is 15 years old, but it was a bloody expensive bike at the time. And I also know with the CPI, inflation and just 'cause, things change, but really!

New helmet (compulsory in Aust.): $240 (I just about keeled over. For what??? I tried to explain to the salesman that my new fullface Shoei helmet only cost $500).

New brake pads (2 sets): $30

New brake cable (2 sets): $30

New chain: $40

New chain breaker: $20

New set of grips: $25

New tyres: $60

New tubes: $20

New pump - 'cause my old one doesn't have the right fixture for the new valves: $45

And now - this is the one that really hurts.

My shoes finally gave up the ghost after 12 years. (Sheesh - they just don't make 'em like they used to...) I got them for about $50. So I went into a shop that actually stocks them (don't ask - it's pathetic) and I got the cheapest pair I could - $135.

I also needed new cleats - the other ones - only 8 years old have worn too much.

'Ummm - sorry Sir, but I have never seen these before.'

'Wattcha mean? They're only 8 years old.'

'Well Shimano changed their style at about that time and they don't make these any more.'

MOG - new pedals and cleats (these are the cheap ones that weigh a tonne): $70. (My old pedals are pristine - that really, really annoys me).

It's cheaper doing up the R65.

Greetings from a rather annoyed and now broke way down south gentleman.

[montmil]

Does make the R65 "habit" seem almost economical. I think I'll show your post, Aussie, to my wife BEFORE I call Motorradd Elektrik tomorrow and order some stuff for the '83.

Thanks for your help!    I've always said that exercise is way too expensive and highly overrated.

Monte

[nhmaf]

Aussie,

You gotta do more shopping online - if they have online bike places down under.  There are plenty of places in the US, but the overseas shipping wouldn't be cheap.  

I've got 2 mtn bikes, though neither of them is "new" - I think that the newest of the two is about 8 years old.  But, like the airhead habit - I do all my own work on them and have upgraded the seat, fork, derailleurs, crank, pedals, gears, wheels, tires, etc..  pretty much everything except the frame on both of them.   Buying parts from online discount stores has saved me lots of $$

[aussie]

My friend - if I could find some online places that would actually:
1. send to Australia
2. send to Australia and be somewhat economical
3. have the gear in the correct size (I've tried before on shoes and I'm not going to do it again)

then I'll do it. The shipping as you have assumed from either the US or the UK is the killer in all this. I don't know why - it seems more expensive than R65 parts. I actually looked at a Park Lane bike stand (I think it was PSR20 - well anyway PS'something'20). I was willing to pay the amount they wanted and the shipping - he wouldn't send it to me because he thought (at least this is what he said) the shipping was too high. SHEEEEEESH!

I do all my own work on the bike - new forks; cassette; crank etc and the servicing. The parts online in Aust are about the same price as the ones in the shops. Go figure. I like to buy online - well for most things. I hate regular shopping with a passion.

And Monte...always glad to be of service.  

Cheers