Bicycle Mechanics - Newbie

I am pretty much new to cycling...This past summer i got a very very gently used old Fuji bike...it is a Fuji Sagres. Not sure exactly how old it is. I participated in two Triathlons last summer. They were awesome and i am completely hooked on them. Before Tri season comes up again i want to help my bike out. What are some good steps to start rebuilding my bike some. I had problems with it shifting into gears on my back tire also and some times when trying to shift into my big ring in the front my chain would come off.


Thanks!

This is a good place to start (http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/FAQindex.shtml). It has helped me.

I would replace the cables and cable housing. Clean and adjust the derailleurs. Most libraries have books on bicycle repair that will tell you how to do it.

I would replace the cables and cable housing. Clean and adjust the derailleurs. Most libraries have books on bicycle repair that will tell you how to do it.what if it's friction shifting?

what is friction shifting?

and what are clincher tires...what other kinds of tires are there?

what is friction shifting?

shifting that doesn't click when you shift gears, as opposed to index shifting, which does click.


and what are clincher tires...what other kinds of tires are there?

clinchers are tires that use a tube inside, and the actual tire is held on by hooks on the rim of the wheel.

tubulars are the other type of tire. they are just a tube with a rubber tread on it, and they are attached to the rim with glue.

what if it's friction shifting?

I would do the same for index or friction shifters.


and what are clincher tires...what other kinds of tires are there?

There are also tubeless tires for mountain bikes now. They are supposed to eliminate pinch flats.

I would do the same for ..... or friction shifters.



Badly messed up cables ok. Casing pointless unless totally hosed somehow.Most only have a small loop at the derailer anyway. Friction shifting just does not sufer the same ills, as index.

I have bikes with both friction and index and neither shifts very good with bad cables and housings. Mainly caused by riding in the winter.

So i have concluded that i have index shifting because it clicks when the gears shift...right??? So i should replace the cables and housing and clean/adjust the derailers?

So i have concluded that i have index shifting because it clicks when the gears shift...right??? So i should replace the cables and housing and clean/adjust the derailers?

Read up on the Park Website or Here (http://www.bikeforums.net/barnettes/barnetts_ch31.pdf) on the forums. Just read, take your time, and get to know your bike.
BEst of luck.

Scoob

It might just need to be cleaned and relubed. Its a good place to start anyway.

Also have a look at the special tools that you will need. Don't go tearing your bike apart with a crescent wrench and a hammer.

The Park site listed above will explain them.