spinachface

I recently got a Fuji Saratoga on Craigslist for 200 bucks. Definitely in good, rideable condition, but based on it's looks it was put together by a somewhat blind old man. Two different bar wraps for each side, mountain bike pedals, a kickstand, all the good stuff.

So, I took all the major stuff off, and now she's looking good, but I'm trying to figure out where to go next. Here's my thoughts, but let me know what you think could be improved or what might make her worth stopping and checking out in front of the grocery store. I am a student who works full time to pay my rent and bills, so my budget is kind of small, hence why some of the parts aren't going to be quite as top notch as I may want them to be. I'd say my budget is around 150 for the first round of upgrades.

I put my budget for each item next to it, and then the last little bit will be used to pay for a quick tune up in a shop.



Thoughts so far:

Saddle Replacement($30):
For now, Origin8 Pro Uno Saddle in Brown. Also considering the black. Any thoughts? Maybe someday a Brooks C17 (once my budget allows it)!

New Brake Levers($50):
I'm going for the Shimano BL-R400. Comes with cables and housing.

New pedals($25):
Wellgo LU-961. I can't afford a clipless setup yet, but I figure these will do the trick, plus my feet are very used to cages after so many years.

Bar Wrap ($25):
Marbled Bacon Wraps by Raleigh. I'm not a meat eater, but these guys seem pretty delectable to me.

And eventually I'll get around to fenders, racks, and panniers, but that's when my tax refund comes.

So, what do you think? Any thing you'd change?

bradtx

spinachface, I'd overhaul the bike first. If you don't find a brown saddle a color change in the bar tape would be in order.

Brad

elpy zee

Ha, ha, my old Miyata 610 has mismatched bar tape, mtn bike pedals, and a kickstand...to each his own. The Fuji Saratoga seems like a great bike, hope you enjoy it.

Barrettscv 

I would replace the brake and shifter cables, along with the chain first. Also check the tires for any damage, older tires tend to fail and can cause an injury.

I recently restored a 1986ish Miyata 615 touring bike. I ended up replacing almost everything on the bike. But I first made the bike safe, and got around to the aesthetics last.

RollCNY

Just a for what its worth:
Check out TRP RRL brake levers. They do not come with cable and housing, but they are phenomenally comfortable. Also, the brake release button works really well, as does the lever shape for braking from the drops. I had tried Shimano, Cane Creek, and Origin 8 levers prior to the RRL's, and will never go back.

spinachface

Wow, I'd never seen TRP RRLs before. Really nice! How exactly does the brake release button work though? Is it essentially just like the switch on caliper brakes? Because that would be nice for cantilevers.

spinachface

This is super valid. I think it's easy to get caught up in the flash of a new bike and forget about this. The rims seem fine, and the chain relatively new. Would you still recommend changing it though?

fietsbob

+1, Overhaul replace the bearings fresh grease , new gear cables and housing (done?), add Mudguards and racks and buy the Bags to carry your stuff in.

Barrettscv 

If the chain is not worn or corroded, it can be oiled and used. Bike shops have a special ruler to measure wear. You might ask your local bike shop to check for wear.

cyanemi

I bought mine for 250 and have so far put about 300 into it with new wheels new handlebars and some tuning. It has been a great bike.

spinachface

Did you replace the wheelset on the bike? Do you have photos? And even riding it stripped is incredible, definitely pretty solid for its time.