TIP OF THE WEEK 06/03/2010
 
Should I fix my bike or buy a new one?

This may be the question you are asking yourself before your first ride of the summer.

Here is my opinion on the subject.

If the frame or components are cracked or severely damaged then it is a safety issue and it should not be ridden. The other bike components may be of value and could be saved. A new frame or component may be the solution.

Most new bikes that cost more than $300 are of reasonable quality. If you need to put $50 - $150 into repairs then it may be worth the money to have it fixed.

A Walmart or Target "special" is probably not worth repairing unless it is just a simple brake or shifting tune up. (Don't  buy another one!)

Safe tune ups or repairs  by a repair or bike shop saves adding one more big piece of metal to the local landfill. It also provides jobs to the local economy and does not contribute to the US trade deficit since all inexpensive bikes are all made in Taiwan or mainland China.

As always you can talk to a friend who is  knowledgeable about bikes or bring it to a repair or bike shop for their opinion before you decide what to do with your bike.


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