The only upgarde you have to make is the front derailleuer. It's descent but i experieced a few mis-shifts. If you like gripshift, keep 'em. This is one tough bike to beat for the money and quality. But i'd rate it 10 flamming chili's for value if I could.
Frame is very good quality, solid for the price.
This is my first bike and has been a solid basis for up grades. Agile for the weight but by no means heavy. So their is still room to diet. Ive tried to break this bike and cant. Im very pleased and would recomend it as a first bike to anyone.