Replacement Drivetrain components for Trek 520

[blyefd]

Hi,
I have a 2007 Trek 520 touring road bike with the following (stock) components which need replacing:
Cassette: SRAM PG 970 11-32T
Middle Chain Ring: Shimano SG 42
Chain: HG 73
Rear Derailleur (possibly replacing): Shimano Deore LX

I have looked at all the parts on the Jenson site, and checked out Sheldon Browns Guides, and I am still confused as to which parts I should get. The different lines of shimano and sram confuse me.

I noticed that Jenson does not have a 11-32T version of the 970, but it does have the 980 with those sprockets.

Should I go with all shimano components? Which would be the best reasonably priced setup? I am looking for smooth shifting and quiet operation. Even when my bike was new I was not too impressed with the noise of the drivetrain, compared to other bikes. Or should I just stick with the direct replacement components?

Thanks!

[RobAR]

The SRAM PG-980 is just a few grams lighter than the 970 (still available in a 11-32) and has a black anodized spider. About $5-10 difference.
Unless I'm at the XT or XTR levels, I actually prefer SRAM over Shimano for the money on cassettes.

I have also found that SRAM chains tend to run quieter on SRAM cogs in the rear. Same goes for Shimano/Shimano. Sram cassettes are also quite noisy with HG chains. I recommend an IG for use with SRAM cogs.

As for the chainring - stick with the same. Hard to beat Shimano.

For the RD, Deore LX is now renamed SLX except for a few RD-T661's still around. The new Deore is as good as the DeoreLX of a few years ago and a few $$ cheaper. If you have Shimano shifters, there aren't really many choices on a SRAM RD at the LX level. Their stuff (the X.9 or X.7 is close to Deore quality) is designed to work with only thier stuff.

Jenson isn't the only place to shop, you know? I always recommend your LBS (local bike shop) if you have one. Jensons can't offer you the advice that I just gave you from my shop.

I have more opinions if you want them!