So.. I used to ride my bike literally into the ground and then get a cheap, new one every year. I want to change that. I love the one I have now, but until recently, I had never oiled the chain, so both the chain and the gears are really rusty. I want to "nurse my bike back to health." Can I do this by just starting a regime of oiling the chain, or do I need to take it to a bike shop and get new gears/chain? How much would that cost?
The frame is still in good condition and so is pretty much everything else. Thanks much.
2007-04-22 15:51:26 · 5 answers · asked by Amy 4 in Sports ➔ Cycling
The two things that you can do to keep your bike in the best working order are lube the chain and keep the tires properly inflated. Tire inflation is simple, so let's focus on the chain. If there is a fair amount of rust on it, it is time for a new one. This is very common. In fact most racers will go through two or three in a season. It is not rust that usually gets it. It's stretching.
I'd recommend taking the bike to a good shop and having them change the chain. Have them look at the cassette too to make sure it is ok. Ask them to recommend a good lubricant. I prefer a dry teflon lube. These do not attract dirt and provide excellent protection.
2007-04-22 16:03:30 · answer #1 · answered by Jay P 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you still have a cheap throw-away bike, then throw it away.
If it's a nice one purchased at a real bike shop with a service contract, then take it back and get things replaced that need replacing.
And DO NOT leave your bicycle outside! It takes SEVERE neglect to rust a good bike chain, so your bike will need a good home inside your house or garage.
When you get your new parts (or new bike), remember that WD-40 IS NOT A LUBRICANT. Get a good chain lube from the shop you bought your bike at, and take advantage of the FREE tune-ups that bike shops give.
2007-04-23 09:10:19 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd recommend starting out with a new chain, and then start good maintenence from there. By the way, to remove a chain you need a special tool, and a lot of patience. If you question doing the work yourself, take it to your local bike shop.
2007-04-22 22:56:44 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just oil the existing chain and gears regularly if they're in good condition apart from the rust. Keep the bike washed and polished. Adjust brakes, gears etc. and wheel bearings and check tyres and tyre pressures regularly.
2007-04-23 00:07:52 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
depending where you would go to you can purchase the chain ..and also the cassette if u didn't rust that either....the drivetrain will be like 50-500 depending where u go and also labor!
oh, the joy!
think about how much u ride it and how much time u leave it in the sun/ in the rain..(abuse!!).ect
2007-04-23 18:50:33 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋