Road/Racing Bike Question/Advice?

Question

I bought myself a guess rb1 (1) must be about 2 years ago when I was 17 and used it a fair amount, around 1000 miles fitting it in around school,exams etc. I always found I had a high cadence and hated to grind in high gears and spin faster. However, even though the actual bike is ok, the wheels are shot after a club incident involving a pile up and the gears were rubbish but after 2 winters are even worse. Because I have a high cadence uphill i'm in a low gear and the chain smacks against the frame making a horrible noise.

Anyone got any advice to combat this problem, the bike was £500 new and don't know whether I should get another bike for summer use and keep my current bike for winter rides. Coponents are Shimano Sora which are pretty rubbish. Oh and its a double chainring but can't fit a triple on in order to get lower gears as the chain just flies off.

http://www.supercycles.co.uk/site_details.asp?ProductID=341

Think that's it, a little long winded i know.

Answer 1

You could switch out your standard double crankset for a compact double.  Ratios would be more to your liking, and it should be compatible with your current derailleurs/shifters.

Answer 2

Can only suggest removing a couple of links from your chain to try and make it a little bit more taught.

Why would the chain smack the frame if you're just spinning up a hill though? You're not throwing the bike around out of the saddle are you?

IMO it's not a reason to upgrade really. I'd say a new set of wheels and a new Shimano Hollowtech 2 chainset would be a worthy upgrade.

Answer 3

I'm wondering if the frame is 'not' ok and that it might have been damaged in the 'incident'.

It sounds to as if maybe the limit screws of the derailleurs might be off a bit.

Take it to a shop, and explain the issues, maybe they can get it corrected for you.

Get out and ride.