Just recently purchased a 1990’s Specialized Hardrock Sport for $20. I have a few questions and also would love some advice. It will obviously need tires and I found the pair I want, but what should I do it it on a budget to make it a slightly better bike. I love the vibes and used to have a red Hardrock Cruz a long time ago and loved it. What can I do to the frame to make the paint shine a bit and pop. And what other mods can I do to slightly improve performance without getting too modern or out of budget. Maybe period correct mods that are better components
by Resident_Code8319
4 Comments
Ride it! Grab some padded shorts and chain lube. As Eddie said; don’t buy upgrades, ride up grades.
If you must: larger metal flat pedals, new seat, new brake pads, new hand grips.
Chain could use replacing. Check the wear on the cassette. Make sure the front and rear derailleur are adjusted and indexed properly.
Throw a bottle holder and a water bottle and good to go. Don’t forget a bike bag with tubes and patches and a pump.
If that’s the original drivetrain, it’s most likely going to need updating. I blew up the picture and the crankset up front looks pretty worn. I’m going to guess that the cassette is also worn.
Just posting to say that in the 90s and early years of the 2000s, I used to ride something very similar 😂😂. Such good memories.
Anyway, check for the cables (brakes and shifters), and probably the groupset is worn. Change the brake pads. Check if the wheel is not worn (the braking surface). You might want to change the sadle.
Other than that, have fun!
Wipe the frame down with lemon pledge furniture polish . Lube the cables with tri Flow