Expert Answers
Should You Fix the Old or Buy New?
Chris's Question.
My wife and I have a pair of 1989 Specialized HardRocks that, unlike more recent models, were set up for light-to-medium duty off-road use. They suited us well for about four years, but we haven't ridden them (or anything else) since. The bikes have been kept in a garage for the last six years; I'm pretty sure the tubes are shot, the gears are off, and who knows what else ails them. We're serious about getting back to riding, but are confused about whether to invest in new bikes or have the old ones fixed up. Any advice?
- — Chris Reed, Arlington, Virginia
Steve Jones's Answer.
It sounds as if you're like me: You hate to throw anything away that can still be fixed and used, especially if it's a bike. On the other hand, you can only ride one bike at a time, so where do you draw the line? Yeah, I know: a bike for every occasion. I still have my first mountain bike — the same brand and model you describe — and one day, I promise, I will fix it up again. But for now, it stays in the dry waiting for the time when I will put it back on the trail.
Before deciding whether or not you should repair an old bike, ask yourself if you're comfortable working on it. If mechanical projects make you happy, hold on to the bikes and fix them yourself.
However, there is a critical factor in all this: the frame. You mention being pretty sure the tubes are shot. By this, do you mean you can see daylight in between where the frame's tubes (top, down, seat) are braised together? If so, then I wouldn't spend any time fixing them. Practically everything on a bike can be easily replaced . . . except the frame. If the frame's integrity is shot, get off and stay off. A weak or broken frame can have catastrophic results.
Then again, you are probably referring to the tubes inside your tire. If that's the case, it's no big deal. A couple of bucks will have you on your way. Same thing with your gears: Take the bike to your local shop and have the mechanic look it over. It may not be as bad as you think. After all, it was still working when you put it up, right?
A word of caution here. Most mechanics love bikes and would not ever advise you to throw one away that could not be repaired. Some, however, will give you advice with dollar signs in their eyes; they will try to convince you to buy a new bike from them. If you have any doubts, go to another shop and get another point of view. Opinions should be free except for the time you invest. If all suggestions are more or less the same, make your decision on that advice.
But let's say you only want one bike per person in the household. Repair or replace? All other things being equal, and with all of the new innovations made in mountain bike design in the last 10 years since you bought your bike, I recommend a new bike, especially if your budget will allow it. You will be amazed at the difference in control, comfort, and components.
But what if you're interested in getting a newer bike but would rather not pay new prices? For the price of what you probably would have to spend in order to fix up your old bike (that is, if the frame is still in good condition) with a new derailleur, brake pads, tires, tubes, cables, chain (plan on $150-200), I would not be surprised if you were to find a bike to your liking for even less than an extensive overhaul would cost.
There are several steps you can take to locate a used upgrade. First, go to your local bike shop and ask if there are any"already ridden" bikes. Second, check the classifieds in your local paper and those for the local bike club (although the club and the shop will likely have a great deal in common). Third, you can place an ad in the paper or online with any of the great sites where trading is allowed and encouraged. For a list of some of these sites, make sure you check out GORP's Biking Links or search for a club in your area where you can find someone who is looking to sell.
Thanks for the question, Chris. I hope you and your wife find the bikes you like. And welcome back!
