Bicycle Mechanics - Broken bike

Any insights to this?

The condition of my bike was average but ride-able when I bought it second hand, but problems started when i started to shift the gears too much. It was since that time I shifted to a low gear after going uphill that now there are a variety of problems with the bike.

First, I can't seem to back peddle anymore, as I noticed the chain doesn't move too smoothly and tends to "stick", and after too much the chain will fall off.

Second, when I peddle forward and after gaining some speed then stop peddling (but bike still moving), then try and peddle again but the bike won't seem to register... no matter how much or how fast I peddle forward. Technically I could be peddling forward madly but the bike stays stationary, just like peddling an excercise bike. This problems resolves after some peddling, but it's a bit random.

I have noticed the chain, cogs, deraileur etc. are a bit dirty compared to other bikes. Maybe thats the problem? If so whats a good way to clean it?


Thanks

Any insights to this?

The condition of my bike was average but ride-able when I bought it second hand, but problems started when i started to shift the gears too much. It was since that time I shifted to a low gear after going uphill that now there are a variety of problems with the bike.

First, I can't seem to back peddle anymore, as I noticed the chain doesn't move too smoothly and tends to "stick", and after too much the chain will fall off.

Second, when I peddle forward and after gaining some speed then stop peddling (but bike still moving), then try and peddle again but the bike won't seem to register... no matter how much or how fast I peddle forward. Technically I could be peddling forward madly but the bike stays stationary, just like peddling an excercise bike. This problems resolves after some peddling, but it's a bit random.

I have noticed the chain, cogs, deraileur etc. are a bit dirty compared to other bikes. Maybe thats the problem? If so whats a good way to clean it?


Thanks

There should be no limit on the number of gear shifts!

The back pedalling problem would be a problem with shifting technique, you're not pedalling forward while shifting to allow the chain to move fully to the correct cog, then the derailler is no longer lined up with the correct cog and the chain can not move smoothly through.
The second problem is likely a faulty freehub, best solution is replacement.

Sounds like the whole bike could do with a good cleaning and adjustment.

What's a good way to clean the chain?

What's a good way to clean the chain?

There are four methods to cleaning a chain:

1) Take a rag spray on some degreaser, put the rag around the chain, and with little pressure run the chain backwards a few times, rinse with copious amounts of water, and add your preferred lub.

2) Take it off, soak it in degreaser, then wash, give it a bath in lubricant let it soak in, then wipe off the excess and reinstall.

3) Replace it.

4) Measure it for stretch, if it's less then 12 1/16 for 12 full links, see number 1 above, if it's more see number 3.

You can replace just the freehub body - shouldn't be too expensive. You can either buy just the freehub or find a cheap hub and take the freehub off.