dmagic17

So I recently picked up a used trek equniox (2004). It is in good shape but got a lot of use. What are the first things that typically need replacing: crankset, rear cassette, chain? The wheels are the original bontrager selects which i plan to replace - When replacing the rear wheel, how is the rear cassette transferred to the new wheel? I'm kind of new to cycling obviously...

deep_sky

First off, since you are new to cycling, I would take the bike to trusted local bike shop and have them look over the bike and determine what needs replacement. In general, the chain and the cassette might need replacing if the previous owner was a) bad at drivetrain maintenance or b)let the chain wear far past replacement time, which also wears out the cassette prematurely. However, the bike shop is best for determining this if you don't have any knowledge. I recommend visiting www.sheldonbrown.com or www.parktools.com. Both sites contain a wealth of information on bikes.

There are specialized tools used for removing and remounting a cassette on a different wheel. Some people own them, but since that is such a rare event for me, I have the bike shop do it if need be. If you replace the wheelset, you will probably want the bike shop to swap the cassette to the new rear wheel. In the mean time, read up on how to remove and install tires and tubes, as this is a simple thing that you can do on your own with no need for anything other than your time and a tire iron.

ptle

I usually like to replace the cables and cable housing on a used bike. Also while I'm at it, I'll usually put on some fresh bar tape. That way the bike has a nice new feel, and the shifting is usually crisp making the bike feel good.

From there the chain and tires (rear tire first) usually wear out. You can measure a chain to see if it needs replacing, or use a chain tool. As for the tire, you can normally tell by looking it at it or if you start getting lots of flat.

When replacing the rear wheel, the cassette can be removed by using a lockring tool. You use the tool to unscrew the lockring, then you slide out the cassette. Transfer over to new wheels, and tighten the lockring. If you plan on doing it yourself, make sure you don't over-torque the lockring. Also I'm assuming you're using a Shimano cassette, which means you'll want a hub on your new wheel that accepts Shimano/SRAM cassettes.

Why are you replacing the original wheels though?