kernix

Hello, I bought my bike from a friend in the late 90's, and he told me it did have a problem with the shifter. Since I'm not into intense mountain biking I didn't care. I just like to go on rides.

Anyway, I'm laid off and am using my bike to get to odd jobs. My chain broke the other day - I took it to a local bike shop and they fixed it. But they mentioned that it needs a lot of work: drive chain, derailleur, cassette, and of course shifters. Got an estimate of $150 but they told me to bring it back to get a more in-depth inspection\quote. Today's estimate was $250-270. I'm laid-off - can't swing that. So, I want to do the work myself.

1st question: How can I get info about the parts that are on my bike, or do I not need to be that specific?

Next question: Any suggestions on books, on-line guides, or other sources that would be a great source of info on the more difficult repairs\replacements?

Last question: I don't even know all the names of the parts - any guides\lists for that?

Thanks!
Jim

dabac

First stops: www.sheldonbrown.com, www.parktool.com, www.bicycletutor.com

Then get back here with more specific questions.

kernix

okay - thanks - will do later today.

Jim

norwood

Depending on your mechanical ability you certainly should be able to do a tuneup fairly cheaply. However, you may be amazed when you discover just how expensive bike components can be. You certainly don't have to go for top of the line parts nor do you have to have an exact replacement of the parts of your 6500. Compatibility is a key word here. The web links listed should greatly help you. Depending of course on what your bike actually needs to have replaced you may need to consider at some point that it may make more finanical sense to look for a used, good condition bike. A couple hundred bucks will often buy a really nice used bike, at a bike shop or privately. I'm just saying to keep your options open.