Highlander357

Hello group,

Sorry if these questions are common knowledge, but I am just getting back into cycling. Cost was a factor, so I just bought a left over Specialized Globe (i think it is classified as a fitness bike.) My LBS gives me a free check up after the break in period. The front wheel was fine when I left the store and for the first few miles, but now it rubs the right brake pad for a small part of the wheels rotation. I assume this means the wheel needs to be trued. Is this something that should be taken care of immediately, or can I wait a bit longer? I want to give the other cables a chance to stretch before I use my free maintenance check, but I don't want to wreck the wheel if that is possible.

Also, I noticed that when I shift into 8th on the rear derailer (sp?), it feels spongy when I pedal. The other gears feel more responsive. It doesn't matter what gear the front is set at. Should I be concerned or am I just imagining things?

Thanks for your input.

blamire

i don't think that riding with an un-true wheel damages it.

RonH

Is the front wheel out of true or is it simply not in the dropouts correctly?

BTW: Most bike shops offer a 6 month free checkup period. So you can take the bike in as often as needed during the 6 months.

Highlander357

Thanks for the tip. I checked the dropouts, but it appears to be fully seated. Looks like I will have to take it in.

JM

justin70

You should get it trued now.

Sparkey789

Yes, I suggest taking it in. Brake cables and shift cables on new bikes generally stretch during the first few months of riding (sometimes first few rides) so it's a good idea to take it in anyway. Your brake problem is an easy fix and the shop shouldn't keep you waiting long. Also those low gears tend to feel a little weird, especially if you are not on a steep incline. 8 gears is a good amount on the back and maybe there aren't steep enough hills where you live to really make that last one all that efficient to use. It may not hurt to mention it at the bike shop though.

Highlander357

I may have it wrong, but I thought 8th gear was the smallest one, so its not the steep incline gears that feel squishy, rather the speed ones. Thanks for the input.