Bicycle Mechanics - Refurbishing an old bike

I have an old 10-speed (circa 1973 vintage) that has been hanging in my parents' garage for years. It was a perfect size for me, comfortable, fit my frame just right, etc., and I really would like to put it on the road. I know that to replace enough components to bring it up to today's standards would cost too much to be worth it, but I'm not exactly the Road Runner, and a 10-speed on the roads that I ride would be just fine.

As far as I can tell, the major parts (gears, etc) are in decent shape, but I'm sure I would have to replace cables, brake pads, maybe chain, maybe wheels, etc.

I'm very handy, and I have a friend who used to work in a bike shop and could help me with the adjustments, so I'd like this to be a do-it-yourself project.

So, is this do-able? And can someone give me advice on how to go about it?

Thanks very much for any advice!

Sure it's doable and relatively simple,since it's a friction system. Clean it overhaul and replace what's wore out or broken. You'll likely need special bike tools for the HS and BB, and hubs.

Particularly if your friend already has the specialized tools needed for crank and BB disassembly, go for it! Even if you spend $100 or so on brake pads, tyres, and cables, you will probably end up with something far better, classier, and more reliable than a $150 *-Mart special. Use KoolStop brake pads, and regrease and adjust all bearing assemblies. If you run into any obstacles during the project, please post again, and let us know how it all turns out.



-- 1959 Capo "Modell Campagnolo"
-- 1980 Peugeot "PKN-10 Competition"
-- 1982 Bianchi "Campione d'Italia"
-- 1988 Schwinn "Project KOM-10"

Just out of curiosity, what kind of bike is it? We can advise how much effort is worth putting into the old bike. If it is a Huffy or Sears Free-Spirit, the value is not so great. If it is a Peugeot, Raleigh, some other great import, or even an upper-end Schwinn, it might be worth the effort.

If you have an early 1970's bike, chances are it has steel rims. I would keep my eyes open at thrift stores, garage sales, and on the curb for a 1980's bike with aluminum rims. Cannibalize the wheels off of the 1980's bike and put them on the 1970's bike.

The very minimal work you need to do is grease all the bearings and check the brake cables. If the brake cables are in good shape, then you might want to at least grease the metal cables (remove them from the housing and grease the metal cable.

Of course, check the brake pads for wear and caliper.

I think its well worth doing . Very satisfying bringing an old steed back to life. How to go about it has already been very well said so I shall not add anything there. Good luck.