Advertisement
If you have a new account but are having problems posting or verifying your account, please email us on hello@boards.ie for help. Thanks :)
Hello all! Please ensure that you are posting a new thread or question in the appropriate forum. The Feedback forum is overwhelmed with questions that are having to be moved elsewhere. If you need help to verify your account contact hello@boards.ie
Hi there,
There is an issue with role permissions that is being worked on at the moment.
If you are having trouble with access or permissions on regional forums please post here to get access: https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058365403/you-do-not-have-permission-for-that#latest

Casual commuter bike needs parts- advice?

  • 19-02-2010 8:10pm
    #1
    Dave3x
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 130 ✭✭


    Hi folks,

    I'm using a Trek 4100 (http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2004&Brand=Trek&Model=4100&Type=bike) which I've had for years for commuting. Lately, it's become a pain to ride, and I don't have the cash to invest in a new bike.

    Basically, the frame is still in good shape, but the chain has started to rust and needs replacing, as do the gear shifters (plastic casing has broken and indexing control is gone as a result). I went to a bicycle shop and have been told that 7-speed shifters aren't usually stocked and it might turn out to be quite expensive to replace anything with a different size cassette.

    In addition, I'd actually like to do the upgrade work myself to learn, as I think I'll be cycling more in the future.

    So, questions:

    1) I'm getting the impression from reading online and searching these forums that I'd need to replace the whole drivetrain (and wheels?) to upgrade to a more common 8- or 9-speed cassette. Is that right? If so, it's not worth it, from what I can tell (unless anyone has a differing opinion).

    2) Replacing the chain seems relatively simple- what tool do I require to break the links and attach a new one? Is it a better idea to simply get a mechanic to do this?

    3) If I do simply replace the broken shifters with new 7-speed shifters, I can't seem to find reasonably priced 7-speed shifter/brake combos (which is what I currently have). Is it simply a case of re-routing gear/brake cables to the two separate controls? Seems like it should be.

    These are basic questions, I know, but I'm quite the beginner at this. And I really don't have a budget to buy a new bike for commuting, which some of you may recommend!


Advertisement