Since the start of March, I've been working at getting fitter using my old mountain bike. When initially purchased 8 years ago it cost £100($150).
I used it for a while when first bought-then it was vandalised at the block of flats i stayed in, and was not used for a period of years.
Its done about 40 miles since being pressed back into service-as such, its obvious that there are some fairly major failings with the bike that need addressed-
Original off road tyres are cracked and worn, plus hard work to use on the tarmaced paths
brakes need adjusted/overhauled
rear cassette is worn or needing adjustment
possible bottom bracket worn
gearshift needs adjustment
So far i have sourced the following:
2x 26" ×1.95road tyres plus tubes for £16($24)
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...491014&alt=web
New brake blocks for £4($6) (for 4)
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...588243&alt=web
Rear cassette for £9($13.50) plus post
http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...197125&alt=web
£31($46.5)plus some time spent getting the gears and brakes adjusted shoud see it much better.
I tightened up the bottom bracket again-will see how it holds up again. Worst case, a further £30 ($45)gets one supplied and fitted.
I'll update the thread as work is carried out