As payment for helping my buddy get his house ready to be put on the market he gave me this mountain bike. It was kept outdoors, but covered. Looks to be in good shape but obviously needs to be cleaned up. This is my first mountain bike so I was hoping to get some advice on how to get it ready for the trails. Is this something I can do or should I have the pros do it? Any help is greatly appreciated!
by slerpymcderp
1 Comment
A fork service and a flush of the hydraulic brake fluid are probably in order. Those tasks are probably best left to a pro unless you already have the tools and a stand. If you decide to get more into the hobby, then you can buy tools as needed.
As for stuff to do yourself, grab a rag, an old tooth brush, some Dawn dish soap (or degreaser if you have it) and clean the chain and gears (rear gears are called a cassette and front gears are called chainrings).
When it’s clean, put some bike-specific lubricant on there. Triflow, BoeShield and White Lightening is a good brands. No WD-40.
If it shifts gears without issue and you don’t have any issues with the chain hopping off, you’re good to go.