1 Project Bike: I got a new Bicycle
2 =================================
4 :date: 2019-04-12 18:22
7 :authors: Maximilian Friedersdorff
8 :summary: Introduction to a project bike: Dawes Super Galaxy
12 I just bought a new (to me) bicycle, an old-ish Dawes Super Galaxy.
14 .. image:: {attach}images/whole_bike_left.jpg
16 :alt: Dawes Super Galaxy
17 :target: {attach}images/whole_bike_left.jpg
19 It is in reasonably good condition, but has two issues that are immediately
22 * The frame has a number of scratches, chipped paint and light surface rust all
23 over as well as a small dent on the top tube.
25 .. image:: {attach}images/chipped_paint_top_tube.jpg
27 :alt: Chipped paint on the top tube
28 :target: {attach}images/chipped_paint_top_tube.jpg
30 * The bottom bracket has plastic retaining rings. These have a reputation for
31 breaking when you attempt to remove them.
33 .. image:: {attach}images/left_bb_cup.jpg
35 :alt: Left bottom bracket cup (plastic)
36 :target: {attach}images/left_bb_cup.jpg
38 It came with front and rear racks, mudguards and mostly Shimano Deore LX components.
40 There is a list of things to do on this bike sooner or later, each of which will become
41 the topic of an article. These are quite urgent:
43 #. There is slop in the cantilever bosses. Either the bosses or the brakes are
44 worn down. This causes excessive brake squeal, especially at the rear. This
45 will either need to be shimmed, or the brakes need to be replaced.
46 #. Buy a frame pump that fits this frame. I have no way of pumping up the tires
47 in the event of a flat at the moment.
48 #. Buy a slightly longer seat post. The current saddle height is within an inch
49 or so of comfortable. I cannot adjust it higher with the stock seat post.
50 #. Remove surface rust, prime, paint and clear coat the chipped areas.
52 These are not so urgent. The bike will continue to ride without any of these
53 being done, but it would make life more pleasant.
55 * Buy and fit a kickstand! I didn't think the lack of kickstand would bother
56 me, but *oh my god* does it bother me.
57 * Clean and repack the hub and headset bearings. This is not very urgent.
58 * Replace chain and cassette.
59 * Try to remove and replace the bottom bracket, something with metal retaining
60 rings. The bearings are fine for now, but the sooner I attempt to remove the
61 plastic lock rings the better the chance that they will come loose without
63 * Replace cables and bar tape. The cable housings are too long, and the bar
64 tape is starting to fall apart.
65 * Buy a longer handlebar stem.