I’ve never had a bike with multiple gears before. I picked up this bad boy, 90s Yokota Tuolumne, off marketplace for $40. This will be my first bike project! My goal is to make it more of a city commuting bike that is comfortable to ride.
Looking for tips / advice –
Can the type of stem be replaced? Looking at stems the ones I’m seeing don’t look compatible.
I think I want to replace the bars with a higher bar or swept back bars. Recommendations for those kinds of bars?
I took some rust remover to the chain but it’s still pretty grimy. Is it worth it to try and restore the current chain or should I just replace it?
Can I change the cranks and keep the 3 sprockets up front or should I just replace the whole set?
I definitely want to change the brake and shifter cables.
Is it okay to use these older shifters or is it something that should be updated?
Hybrid tire recommendations?
Thank you!
by renxten
4 Comments
Start by riding it around. If this is your first geared bike there might be some getting used to it.
Oil the chain, some rust may fall off. If it is not able to move fluidly, then def replace it.
That stem is called a quill stem, it can be replaced. There are also adapters for the other incompatible type.
If you’re able to go to a coop or shop, pick up the bars they have and see how they feel in your hands. Plus it gets you more involved in the local bike scene instead of online shopping.
I personally dislike how biopace chainrings feel, and that can be replaced if you decide you also dislike it.
Or if you have a big budget you can just replace it all at once. Have fun with the project!!
You’ve got a sweet bike that’s perfect for your intended project.
Any 1″ threaded stem will work. The one on the bike is being run way above its minimum insertion line, but should be fine if it isn’t bent.
It will likely need a full overhaul – everything is cup and cone loose ball bearing on this bike which requires practice and finesse but not a lot of money.
I’d get a nice puncture resistant set of tires, something similar to a velo orange tourist bar, fenders, a rear rack and front basket, plus replacement of any failed parts you find in the overhaul.
Handlebar end plugs. If you fall, a metal tube can take a core out of you. Stay safe.
First thing you need to do is lower that stem, it’s up past the minimum insertion marks which is dangerous. It could come out.