Fixing bike first time!

[Laurabknight]

I have just bought a bike for 75 pounds which was unknowingly in very bad condition!

I have never fixed a bike before so have no experience. The bike shop said it would cost 250+ to repair but I am going to see how far I can get myself!

The handle bars would not turn so I am trying to take off the spacers so that I can detest the stem and headset. I have got most of them off apart from the last one which is seeming impossible!
in the process the wd-40 must’ve helped as the handle bars will twist now but not enough!

The spacer or compressor I am trying to remove

I am also trying to remove the chain so that I can derust it and see if it is in good enough condition after that!
it is a split link chain but I just cannot remove! I don’t have the tool to and don’t want to purchase one!
Have tried DIYS but they aren’t working.

if anyone has any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Vapin' Joe]

You'll need a chain tool to fit the new one as it will have to be cut to length. Forget about cleaning the chain that's on there, it's beyond redemption.

 

[T4tomo]

I am going to see how far I can get myself!

not very far if this is your default position....

I don’t have the tool to and don’t want to purchase one!

 

[Punkawallah]

Do you have a bike charity nearby? There is a thread here with a map of their locations, and they may be able to help.

 

[C R]

Regarding the headset, once you have removed the stem the fork should just slide off, the fact that it doesn't indicates that the compression ring under the top cap is possibly stuck due to corrosion. It will take some work and care to get the fork out without damaging anything. It s likely that you will need new bearings for the headset.

ETA if you don't have the tools, I second @Punkawallah, look for a local charity that may allow you to go to their workshop to use their tools. They may also be able to advice on any points you are unclear on how to proceed.

 

[Animo]

Pair of needle nose pliers should work with the quick link, or there are YouTube videos with other techniques for getting them open.

 

[Laurabknight]

not very far if this is your default position....

Just a tool to get the chain off? Have seen that there are many other techniques and I cannot afford to buy one thanks for the help though

 

[Laurabknight]

Regarding the headset, once you have removed the stem the fork should just slide off, the fact that it doesn't indicates that the compression ring under the top cap is possibly stuck due to corrosion. It will take some work and care to get the fork out without damaging anything. It s likely that you will need new bearings for the headset.

ETA if you don't have the tools, I second @Punkawallah, look for a local charity that may allow you to go to their workshop to use their tools. They may also be able to advice on any points you are unclear on how to proceed.

Okay thank you so much, and how do I work out what bearings I will need to buy?

 

[biggs682]

Welcome @Laurabknight
Where are you based ?
Only asking as there might be another cycle chat member locally who might be prepared to help

 

[Laurabknight]

Welcome @Laurabknight
Where are you based ?
Only asking as there might be another cycle chat member locally who might be prepared to help

Hi thank you that is true and would be great! I am based in Walthamforest Leytonstone

 

[DCLane]

Welcome @Laurabknight
Where are you based ?
Only asking as there might be another cycle chat member locally who might be prepared to help

Or a local bike co-operative who would have mechanics to guide and tools.

 

[biggs682]

Hi thank you that is true and would be great! I am based in Walthamforest Leytonstone

Nowhere close enough for me to help but there must be a willing member who is

 

[Jameshow]

I have just bought a bike for 75 pounds which was unknowingly in very bad condition!

I have never fixed a bike before so have no experience. The bike shop said it would cost 250+ to repair but I am going to see how far I can get myself!

The handle bars would not turn so I am trying to take off the spacers so that I can detest the stem and headset. I have got most of them off apart from the last one which is seeming impossible!
in the process the wd-40 must’ve helped as the handle bars will twist now but not enough!

The spacer or compressor I am trying to remove

I am also trying to remove the chain so that I can derust it and see if it is in good enough condition after that!
it is a split link chain but I just cannot remove! I don’t have the tool to and don’t want to purchase one!
Have tried DIYS but they aren’t working.

if anyone has any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Oh that's bad...

My son brought a recent (dropped seat stay) specialized allez for £100

 

[Punkawallah]

Oh that's bad...

My son brought a recent (dropped seat stay) specialized allez for £100

‘Caveat emptor’. I put a shift at my FLBS for tea and access to their scrap pile, and there are people who query the prices (he deals solely in second hand bikes). He reminds them they have all been checked, serviced and come with a 30 day warranty, unlike Facebook/eBay buys.

 

[Big John]

With the best will in the world if you're going to buy 'project' bikes and not use a LBS to put things right then I hate to say it but you won't get very far without investing in a few proper tools. You might be able to bodge getting a quick link off but if you have any plans for getting a new chain you'll invariably need to remove a link or two to get the right length. You could try a hammer and suitable punch but risk damaging the chain irreparably. Take a look at the thread we've got for bike charities/ projects. If there's one near you if they're like the one I'm involved with they'll happily help you.