Bikinginiowa

I own a Trek hybrid that's about 10 years old now. I rode it quite a bit at first but haven't really ridden it much in the last 5 years. It has all the original equipment. Just this spring they put in a new bike trail right behind my house and I want to start riding again. My question is are there anything specific that I should replace before getting started? I'm thinking possibly rubber items such as the tires and tubes. The tires are the original Trek tires and while they do still have decent tread they are 10 years old and show a little bit of cracking. Also do things like the brake pads dry out and need replaced after time? What items are there if any that are more succeptable to degradation over time as well as normal wear from use?

one_less_car

I agree that rubber items would be a good idea, especially the tires. The brake pads may or may not need to be replaced but it is probably worth replacing just to be sure they are working. I'd also be sure to make cables and such are well lubricated.

I had a similar situation with a bike stored indoors. Over time the lubrication got gummy so shifty was sloppy. My freewheel was also gummed up so it pulled on the chain slightly when coasting which resulted in some chain dynamics that were unwelcomed.

If it was stored indoors then it could be you don't have to do much. If it was dry and outside, rubber will likely have to be replaced. If it was wet and outside I'd think about replace cables and chain too.

Bikinginiowa

It has been stored indoors in my garage but I'm sure differences in temperature and humidity have had an effect on the rubber items.

Bikewer

I've never seen brake pads deteriorate, but a bit of sanding to break any glaze couldn't hurt.

I would be suspicious of the tires/tubes after that length of time. As long as it's been garaged, and everything moves and/or spins freely, it should be fine.