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Old 08-14-09, 12:42 AM
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Panthers007
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Um...I'd retract "An old bike might not be safe to ride." Many of us ride vintage machines from the 1960's - and earlier. The bike is distinguished by the frame, and neither a steel-frame or an aluminum-frame has any known expiration-date. Just treat them right and overhaul them regularly (or at least a tune-up), and they can work forever that we know.

But such animals as brake and gear-cables should be replaced regularly. As well as the cable-housing at the same time. This is recommended to be done once-a-year. More often if you just braked all the way to California from Montana.

NEXT-UP: The brake-pads, when they get old, likely should be replaced with new ones. Most of us bike-mechanics will suggest Kool Stop brake-pads. They WILL stop you. Figure out which look like the old one's here:

http://www.koolstop.com/brakes/index.php

You can buy through most bike-shops. Or off the 'net.

As for a new chain - it's likely that to prevent the chain from skipping, to also replace the cassette/freewheel. As they work together, chains grind the freewheel grind the chain to conform to each other. Replace one - replace both.

Clean the bike. Polish this and that. Check all the bolts to make sure they are not loose. And this is your basic tune-up. The bicycle probably need a complete overhaul - but doing this first will get you on the road in swift order.

Last edited by Panthers007; 08-14-09 at 12:46 AM.
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