get a new bike?
 

i have a 01 giant boulder se and i was thinking about getting something different. the bike is in perfect shape but it needs some new tires and a good tune up. i also think the derailer is messed up becaus the chain will get really loose when you back peddle and sometimes when you are just coasting. so should i keep my bike or get a new one?

Just get a tune up, if one of the wrenches notices something wrong with the frame, they will let you know.

how much are tune ups usually?

Anywhere from $15-$50 The higher the price, the more things are looked over.

It is worth getting a really nice tune up. The shop guy might find something you didn't know about, and your bike will just run smoother. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Get a decent tune-up, see how you like it. Decide if you want a new bike after.

If you do end up getting a new bike, you know have a nicely tuned winter/commuter/spare bike :)

god, tune-ups are 25-50 bucks? I paid $120 and got a new derailluer and some new brake pads!

I just got a tune up and headshock rebuild (Cannondale F400) for $85. It made a world of difference in the bike. But then they sucked me back in. I saw a new Cannondale Rush 600 and could not turn down the opportunity to take it for a spin in the parking lot. After riding it I couldn't leave it behind. Now that bike is sitting in my kitchen and I'm having a hard time sleeping at night knowing that the bike is downstairs begging to be riden. If you just want a tune up, I suggest you only take enough cash with you to cover the tune up. Leave the debt card, credit cards and check books at home. Maybe try the tune up first and then make a decision. Good luck on whatever you decide.

You can bring all of that stuff with you....just try bringing some willpower too! :p

are there any tools or repair manuals to help me learn some stuff? i dont really know much now but i want to learn how to keep my bike in good condition.

Just get a tune up and if it is necesarry get a new bike

The park tool site is a awesome reference. www.parktool.com

Heres my opinion of a tune up. Its something you can do yourself much better. I work in a bike shop some. I think most shops charge around 40 bucks, they clean the chain, lube it, check the breaks and shifting, check the headset for smooth action, check the tires, check to see if anything is loose. Unless the bike has a serious problem it takes about 15 minutes.