Hello! I recently moved to the SF Bay Area and immediately realized I need a bike. I got this one for relatively cheap and am looking forward to understanding more about bicycles in general.
From what I’ve found, this is a 2000’s young adult gravel bike. From riding it, I figure it could use WD-40 first and foremost. I’m wondering what the process and details of a new handlebar set, gears/shifters, and seat would be.
I’ve heard there’s bike places in the Bay Area that gladly fix bikes for free, but I’m more interested in understanding more in general and the upgrading process.
by Substantial-Pass7669
1 Comment
When you say wd-40, is that because the chain is squeaking? If so, you’ll want specific bike chain lubricant, not wd-40, which is a degreaser.
I wouldn’t put a new groupset (gears) on, that would cost more than the bike is worth. Same with handlebars, unless there’s a specific issue you’re tying to fix. Seat is any easy enough to change but again, I would spend some time on it, adjust the seat height correctly, then see if you want something different.
In general I would encourage you (and any new rider) to learn about maintenance and adjustment rather than jumping into upgrades. Park tool has YouTube videos for just about every repair and adjustment imaginable.