Newbie to the bike thing - Triathlon Week

jwier92 · 11-11-2005, 07:03 PM

Okay, I am totally new to biking. Sure I had a 10 speed in my pre-car days and I have a bike now and a few bikes between now and then, but really I know nothen about care.

So I picked up a 1988 Schwinn LeTour and now it is in my basement and ready to be cleaned up for the off-season. I plan on riding it on a trainer this Winter, but have to get one and right now is not the time to invest.

What do I use to clean the rims?
Do I do anthing to the tires?
What about the frame? Clean and wax?
Cables for shifters and brakes?
shifters and brakes?
derailers?
crank?

My crank might be bent what do I do?

What about the chain?

You get my point, I am clueless!

Thank you,
Jason

crazylegs · 11-11-2005, 10:18 PM

There are two approaches...

1. Take it to your LBS and have them give your bike a complete tune-up. Around here they run about $20-30 (plus any parts that need to be replaced). Watch the mechanic and see what he does. Most don't mind if you ask questions if they're not too busy.

2. The second approach is to buy a book and look at maintenance articles online. This is the more economical route...however you WILL make mistakes, but that is how you learn. Taking it to a mechanic is easier and quicker, but more expensive.

Doing it yourself and making mistakes may take longer, but in the long run you will be able to diagnose problems yourself and save yourself the labor costs. By fixing your own bicycle, you will eventually gain confidence and have that aspect of cycling to enjoy.

jwier92 · 11-12-2005, 02:42 AM

I have thought about the LBS and I have two that I work with to get stuff done. One is easy to get to, the other I know the owners good.

The book idea is great! Maybe this would be a place where people can sound off on what books they have or have used and what they liked and disliked about this. I know that sometimes I rush out and get a book and then find out that nobody liked the book after I read it and then wonder if anyone liked the book.

Thank you,
Jason

sfricks · 11-12-2005, 05:32 AM

Jason,
Welcome aboard. Here's a few pointers...

What do I use to clean the rims?
Dawn dishwashing detergent.

Do I do anthing to the tires?
Check the tires for dry rotting. If they're cracked, replace them. Replace the tubes.

What about the frame? Clean and wax?
Dawn. Wax if you like.

Cables for shifters and brakes?
Let your local bike shop handle these if you have no experience with replacement and adjustment.

shifters and brakes?
Lube and check pads. Replace pads of necessary.

derailers?
clean and lube. Again have your LBS adjust.

crank?
My crank might be bent what do I do?
DEFINATELY HAVE YOU LBS CHECK! If it's bent then there's a reason why. What other damage was done? Riding with a bent crank will put stress on your bike and on your joints. DON'T DO IT!

What about the chain?
Have your LBS check it. It may need to be replaced. If not, clean with a brush or a chain cleaner using Dawn. Lube with wet lube like Tri Flow and wipe off excess. Wipe the chain again before your next ride to remove excess lube. This will prevent road grime from sticking to your chain and make it easier to clean next time.

HTH! Good luck.

usasportstrain · 08-24-2006, 10:03 AM

Do they salt your roads in Indiana?

If so, I'd say clean it thoroughly after every ride. Make sure to lubricate plenty as well.

I'm in Minnesota and the salt, oh the salt...!