I’ve recently got this second hand bike for a very cheap amount. I will treat it as a beater bike for commute.
I’ve noticed that there is a dent in the chainstay, near the crank. Do you think it is by design or not? Should I be worried about it?
Also, what essential upgrades or parts should I replace if i want it to be in decent condition?
by jku1212
4 Comments
Dent is by design. Check chain wear, brake pad wear, rim wear. If nothing is worn out you’re good to just ride it until something comes up! Though new tires never hurt.
Take it to an LBS for 60$ they’ll make sure everything’s tight and bearings are good
Why would anything need changing?
Check the chain with a chain checker tool, and brake pads visually. check that bearings spin freely and that the tires aren’t cracked and hold air.
Other than that just ride until you notice a problem.
If the brake pads are more than ten years old, go ahead and swap em. They get hard.
Chain likely toast. Cheap fix, saves the rings. If not, clean, lube, wipe dry.
Freewheel will stop engaging at some point, ride until it does.
How’s reach? Based on seatpost you might enjoy a shorter stem. As your local shop/coop if they’ve got some takeoffs with less reach.
Fiddle with bar rotation until it feels right. Small adjustments matter.
Saddle is an upgrade candidate, but ride it for a bit.