Bike not used for a while - service?

[wiggy001]

I bought a Specialised hybrid about 6 or so years ago and used it a little for a while, but then started running more often so the bike hasn’t been used for about 4 years. Twinges in my knee when running, and getting bored with my local area, have convinced me to go back to cycling as a lower impact way of getting exercise.

The bike has been in a dry shed for that time but chain has some light rust and any attempt at turning the pedals sounds like a bag of spanner’s.

Local bike shops seem to be offering servicing from £50-100 plus parts... is it worth me going for the all in service or is that like paying a main dealer to “find problems”?

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

[johnpsanderson]

If it were my bike I’d give it a good clean, then spray everything that moves with GT85 and lube the chain. Google SheldonBrown for advice on adjusting the indexing on the gears and setting the brakes up. The brake/gear inner cables might want replacing.

After that I’d think you’d probably be good to go!

[Justin S]

If you were local to Newbury, I would check it over and it would cost you feck all

[Gareth79]

As above - it should be ok, just the lube has dried out. Clean the whole drivetrain with some degreaser, run the chain through a rag until it looks decent, and then lube the chain with a quality lube. Pay attention to any gunk caught around the derailleur pullies, they can make a LOT of noise if in bad condition. Park Tool have some very good maintenance videos.

One other thing - check the brake pivots, they may have got a bit stiff and could benefit from freeing up.

[Tabs]

Don't forget the tyres/tubes may be perished, and if they hold pressure in the shed, they may not on the road!

[loskie]

Surely you can attempt the basics yourself? Lubricate things and blow up the tyres.

[wiggy001]

Thanks for the advice all. Seems pretty obvious that this is a DIY job in hindsight, I just wondered if anyone would say "for the effort, you might as well get it serviced". All my cars have gone to the main dealer for servicing so that may tell you my thought process!

Everything degreased/cleaned/lubed as suggested so all seems good. Will take it for a local, easy ride when I get a moment just to check things out, and hopefully get back into cycling before the weather turns and my motivation wanes!

Thanks again.

[loskie]

I think all the allocations have been used up but there may be a second tranche: so look out for bike shops doing the free £50 service that is paid for by the Govt grant scheme designed to get folks back on their bikes and kick start LBS's although judging with how busy they are/have been that's not an issue.