Originally Posted by Doohickie

Cassette? A new freewheel would be less than $20, even one with ramps to get near indexed shifting performance. New cables? Wal-Mart sells a basic set for $5. There are several levels of group rides around here (near where Miles lives) that range from high speed racer wanna-be fitness rides to very casual social rides. I've seen worse than that bike on some of the rides.



I could name three or four groups that he can ride with that would be totally cool with that bike. Cycling is pretty wide open around here. It's in a growth mode and right now there is plenty of room for all, and surprisingly little sniping between the roadies, the MTBers, the fixed gear riders, etc. In fact, a lot of people ride several styles of bikes and do all kinds of rides.