Bike maintenance

Question
Hello!
I have a 1996 Trek 830 that I抎 like to fix up. My Dad bought it for me when I was a teen and until last summer I probably only rode it 10-20 times. It抯 in obvious disrepair, but I don抰 know anything about bike maintenance and am not sure where to start. I want to start using this bike to ride 4-5 miles every day.

Obviously, I could just take it to a bike shop and have them 慺ix?it, but I am afraid I will be over-charged since I obviously know very little AND I am also concerned that I will end up with a bike that isn抰 really appropriate for me since I am still growing into myself as a cyclist and am not sure what I want.

Can you make some suggestions for me??

Answer
Sid,
It is very possible for you to fix this bike up yourself. However, what you're going to find is it is going to cost you more in time and parts then investing in having a bike shop fix it.

Why I say "invest" is fairly simple, they do know what they are doing and they want you up and riding. Unlike a mass merchant, the independent bike shop has to rely on fixing your bike and making you a life-long customer. They tend to be passionate about riding and are very willing to help you as you progress, or even help you find out how you'll progress.  

Think of it this way. You may be able to fix your car, but it would be a learning process for you and you would have to be willing to commit time and money to do it properly, knowing that very likely you're going to make mistakes. So, if you decide you are only going to drive once a year, great, fix it yourself. But, you're looking to make this part of your lifestyle, get it fixed right so you can do it right.

My experience is biased in that I do deal with a lot of bike shops. What I have found is like I just said, passion and experience that can make a difference for your riding enjoyment. It does cost money, but generally they are very fairly priced.

You may even talk to them and ask if they can give you an estimate before they start. You might even decide that the $150 or so it will cost you would be better spent on a new bike.

Hope this helps,
Jeff