Hey guys - been lurking a bit now and decided to guts up and ask for some advice. I took my first mountain bike trek with my brother in law, and now see that my 10/12 yr old Schwinn hybrid may need some upgrades before I even hit the trails with it. I realize with it being a hybrid, it can stand *some* abuse, but I keep wondering what the limit is...not that I want to bust a frame attempting to find out. So I guess my question is, is it even worth upgrading? Or should I just sell it for parts or as a whole and save my pennies for a new bike? Thanks for the thoughts and the time 🙂 Watch out for those trees!
question is, is it even worth upgrading? Or should I just sell it for parts or as a whole and save my pennies for a new bike?
"no" to the first and "yes" to the second. I'd use this bike, like it is, to gain basic skills and learn the sport. Take time and decide what type of riding you want to do...study different bikes and set-up's and when you feel you are knowledged make an educated decision on what you feel that you need.
My first bike was a turd...I knew nothing of bikes or the sport. It was sold to me by a guy who also had no clue. After about six months I realized that the bike that I thought was golden was actually just a cheap replica. By that time I knew the sport, knew bikes and bought one that better suited me and my style, and actually rode better after lugging that boat anchor up the mountain for six months.
question is, is it even worth upgrading? Or should I just sell it for parts or as a whole and save my pennies for a new bike?
"no" to the first and "yes" to the second. I'd use this bike, like it is, to gain basic skills and learn the sport. Take time and decide what type of riding you want to do...study different bikes and set-up's and when you feel you are knowledged make an educated decision on what you feel that you need.
My first bike was a turd...I knew nothing of bikes or the sport. It was sold to me by a guy who also had no clue. After about six months I realized that the bike that I thought was golden was actually just a cheap replica. By that time I knew the sport, knew bikes and bought one that better suited me and my style, and actually rode better after lugging that boat anchor up the mountain for six months.
Good point! I should've mentioned that the bike sat for a while in my parents garage, with both wheels unattached. No big deal of course... but now I have to figure out how the rear derailleur goes back on. Doesn't look anything like the pictures I can find - granted it's a Suntour S-1. LBS here I come!
