I just pulled my old '88 Trek 400 out of the garage and was wondering about whether or not it could be upgraded - at less than the cost of a new bike! Everything on it is original. http://www.vintage-trek.com/images/trek/Trek88_1.pdf

I'm in a position to commute to work and would like to get back into biking. I took the bike to one bike shop and they said that it would cost a minimum of $600 just in parts. Labor also would include needing to spread the frame for a new rear wheel and cassette. Another bike shop, without seeing it, said that it would also cost a good chunk of change - they suggested a Breezer, which they conveniently sell. Finally a 3rd shop, which I'm going to visit tomorrow, thought it could be done for around $300 - no details yet.

The bike has an Ovaltech triple 52/42/32 and a 14-28T 6spd. rear. As I'm about to turn 50 and not in biking shape currently, I'd like to make the gearing such that I could make it up hills without arriving to work dripping. I figure 19-20 gear inches on the low end and around 100 on the top. I'd also like to put a rack and panniers on.

Obviously I'm not a bike mechanic, so I'd appreciate any insight the group can provide.

Thanks.

Les