What are the MTB components that you don't mind running stock?

12 Comments

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Jgriessh California // 2025
Apr 12, 2026

Bikes are expensive. Im going to buy a bike thats a decent build, and then upgrade the touchpoints. I'd rather spend the extra $$ on a bike trip.

4 reply

sscottt Vermont // 2024
Apr 12, 2026

The handlebar would be first on my list to leave alone but oh yah... I bought the FASST bar and love every overly expensive penny of it.
The cassette is an odd one because it will only last two years anyway. Same with tires. If you don't like them, just wait till they wear out.

4 reply

OhioFatBiker Ohio // 2016
Apr 12, 2026

I have a bike that I have replaced everything over the years. But wheels were the last because new good ones are not cheap. I have a new bike that the only thing I have changed is the saddle.

2 reply

bikejoy Georgia // 2023
Apr 13, 2026

I just ride until things break from wear, then upgrade over time. This makes me earn the upgrade

2 reply

astralzombie Minnesota // 2021
Apr 12, 2026

My usual go-to is to buy whatever build comes with Rockshox Select+ suspension, usually the best overall value (just bought the Tier 3 Forbidden Reya) and then ditch the touch points. Sure, they are all technically fine but this is where brands usually cheap out so I switch out for OneUp carbon bars, get the 50mm stem with it and different seat and grips. Everything else will get replaced eventually (drivetrain, tires, etc.) so no real point on switching those unless one is looking for something very specific.

2 reply

SKullman 2014
Apr 13, 2026

That's a weird question. Any consumable shouldn't be on the list. Stem, Bars, Saddle, Pedals. Those are needed for good fit.
Shock/Fork, stock until they wear out
Wheels, stock until you can upgrade.
Dropper stock.

2 reply

Wile E Warren Louisiana // 2019
Apr 12, 2026

When I got my bike, I immediately swapped out the cranks, bars and brakes. 16 years later... the only original parts are the headset and seatpost clamp.

2 reply

fpch Quebec // 2017
Apr 17, 2026

For me what really changes the ride is a good set or tires and suspension. If these are not up to a minimum standard, I will look to change them. The saddle and grips are an easy fix to what I am used to. For the rest, il will wait for the component to get used or broken before event thinking about it.

1 reply

mjcutri Portugal // 2026
Apr 12, 2026

I built up my last two mountain bikes from frames, so there wasn't anything to upgrade since it was already what I wanted.
I did upgrade to a dropper post on my gravel bike that I bought new as a complete bike recently.

1 reply

Namdoog Maine // 2025
Apr 12, 2026

My last new mountain bike purchase was a Trek Supercaliber in 2022 which was spec'd with kind of whimpy looking 2.2" Bontrager tires. I had the shop swap out the tires from my old bike that I traded in before I took it home. Then I put a dropper post and swapped out the remote lockout lever for a twist grip. Last year I replaced the crank from 175 to 165mm. Other than wear and tear I don't think I'll be replacing anything else.

1 reply

~Mountain Bike Addict~ Colorado // 2008
Apr 13, 2026

Nothing on my bike is stock. 100% custom.

1 reply

brett.williams Colorado // 2013
Apr 17, 2026

I will usually roll with what is stock for a while -- unless it comes with SRAM brakes. I know people that love them, but that's one thing I have to swap out.

0 reply

Tagged: survey, gear, components

First published April 12, 2026 @ 5:55:00

What are the MTB components that you don’t mind running stock?

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12 Comments