Couple of newbie questions

suzyb

I've dug my old bike out of the shed in a bid to get fit and loose some weight.

It seems in relatively good condition considering it's been hanging in the shed for about 8 years however there are a couple of issues I'd like some advice on.

Firstly, there is a lot of rust on the wheels, especially the front wheel. I've removed some of the rust using kitchen foil (which worked surprising well on the spokes) but I'm wondering whether I should get new wheels as the spokes are now "patchy" and there are rust spots on the rim that don't seem to be rubbing off.

I'm trying to spend as little money doing this as possible in case I jack it in after a month so if new wheels aren't necessary I'd like to avoid purchasing them.

Secondly, the left gear lever didn't work and when I pulled the old rusted cable out to replace it I discovered why. The spring in the level was broken and came out when I removed the cable. I'm guessing the lever is now useless and will need replaced so after some searching I found the same lever for sale on ebay (link here). However would it be worth while upgrading and if so can I upgrade just the lever (and not the entire gear system) and would I need to replace both gear shifters.

Thanks

supersonic

What bike is it? Any pics?

If the rims are rusty then they will be made of steel - very heavy, and a lighter, alloy set will transform the bike. Rusty spokes can introduce weak spots. If you do replace, make sure they fit ie over locknut dimension must match the droput spacing of your hub. Also does it have a freewheel or cassette? You will probably need new brake blocks too.

Sounds like it needs a good service. Not worth upgrading the shifter really, and you may be able to repair the old one. If it is a friction shifter, and turning the dial on the body (IIRC) changes from the ratchet to the friction.

suzyb

It's a Emmelle "Nova Scotia" (at least that's what it says on the bike). Although I'm guessing no one will have heard of it since even a google search on the name doesn't yield any results :?

At the moment the only picture I have is this of the full bike.


I think it has a freewheel although to be honest it was rather difficult to identify with the wheel still on the bike and I didn't want to remove it since it was beginning to rain. If i decide to get new wheels I think that will be the point I take it to a shop since it's clearly more complex than I thought.

Which does bring another question, is there a forum here where you can find local bike shops. The only ones I know of near me are Halford.

supersonic

It is fairly old, at least the 90s, and also on the very budget side of budget!

Looking at it now, it isn't really worth replacing any major parts - I'd service it and see how you get on.

suzyb

Yep, bought in 1994 actually. I remember because my parents paid for half as a gift to me for passing my school exams

Anyway thanks. I guess I know what will be going on my Christmas list this year.

il_principe

I hope you're gonna raise the saddle before riding that!

suzyb

Yes, though I do have short legs the saddle is too low down even for me.

I'm wondering now whether I should just go and get a new bike. I found out this afternoon I'll be getting some money I'm owed so I have a bit of extra cash.

the_hundredth_idiot

Gert a new bike if you've got the cash. 8) You won't regret it.

And you're in the right place if you want completely unbiased and helpful advice over what to buy.