What parts do I need? Technically challenged cyclist

[kiethton]

Been having some issues with my bianchi (2011 via nirone) mainly around the chain and gearings, with a need to get in shape ahead of the ride 100 I need to get it sorted.

Had the bike over 3 years, averaging ~2.5k miles a year with only basic maintenance.

Last time I rode it properly I had to give up as the chain kept on coming off the top gear when pressing on (5 spins and it's fall off again). Chain and all gear mechs etc. are original and look pretty worn. After adjustment (I've cocked this up) I've mis adjusted the systems, loosing the top gears leaving me spinning out easily on the flat...but it no longer comes off.

Given even when I had full range I would often need an extra get or 2 up top as I wanted to go faster but don't have enough choice. Seems like the best time to replace my well worn cassette given the current issues.

Think the current one is a 12/25 and 50/34 compact with shimano cables/levers from googling, what should I look at? Think I might as well do a full refresh, so front, back and chain. What combination would give me the best set-up, I know nothing about this sort of thing...

Think I'm pretty fit (although fat - 15-19 stone depending on diet cycle and an ex rugby/judo guy), commute into London (City) averaging +15mph, did L2B in <3 hours on the same bike last year, all according to strava so happy to take ratios that I need to improve myself for/will push me, I just have no idea what kit, ratios, brands, sizes etc. that I'll need...

[kiethton]

Thanks for that, will do....

Budget is as low as possible to get decent kit (not cheap not premium etc.)

[kiethton]

Thanks for that, will do....

Budget is as low as possible to get decent kit (not cheap not premium etc.)

[kiethton]

Pachydermus said:

I've just replaced my 2008 via nirone with a 2014 as the old frame let go. Both are 10 speed. Chain rings should still be fine on yours so should just need a new chain and cassette, cables and adjustment.
Unless you're racing then there really is no need to change from a compact. A 50/11 will give you a higher top speed than a 53/12 with the advantage being that a 34/25 is better for us fat b*st*rds than a 39/25.
I ride in to London from Bromley so if you see a fat old bloke on a via nirone say hi :-)
(and will also be doing ride london... just 10 weeks to go)

Oh cool, may do as I'm Orpington although my working hours limit my cycling, leaving the house at 5am and back for 10pm after nearly an hour each way gives me a rather long working day, often can't even bring myself to get out of bed in the mornings - part of the reason for the spare tyres I'm carrying!