I've owned this bike since new. Well not quite, I've always felt I was the first and only proper owner, but it was one of a batch used by a university expedition to cross the USA by bike, something I had no involvement in. So far as I know it achieved that. I've used it on and off for the last 22 years, and it's generally been looked after. I replaced the chain soon after buying it, in later years it's needed a new rear rim and tyre, brake cables, otherwise it's as-supplied.
BUT: mainly due to the aforementioned trip across the USA all those years ago, the front chainrings (labelled Sakae X1), particularly the middle ring, are now getting very very worn. Several teeth are particularly worn, I once thought this was a design feature, but now I'm not so sure. Now I'm using it for some commuting again, this is a bit of an issue. I can see that the middle and top rings are 110BCD. I have absolutely no idea where to go to seek replacements. My technical knowledge of mountain biking ended in around 1993! Obviously the options are second hand (ebay?) or new, but I'd appreciate some advice as to the best course of action. I'd post a wanted note here, but I first ought to sort out what it is that I'm after! The chain is still OK, but I'd consider changing the entire drivetrain if an authentic replacement exists (I assume not as Suntour no longer exists).
Having looked through some old threads, I was thrilled to hear that my faithful old "splatter" bike might have some retro cachet, so I'm even more up for getting out on it as much as possible. Just need the right advice on parts!
Much appreciated
Mike
BUT: mainly due to the aforementioned trip across the USA all those years ago, the front chainrings (labelled Sakae X1), particularly the middle ring, are now getting very very worn. Several teeth are particularly worn, I once thought this was a design feature, but now I'm not so sure. Now I'm using it for some commuting again, this is a bit of an issue. I can see that the middle and top rings are 110BCD. I have absolutely no idea where to go to seek replacements. My technical knowledge of mountain biking ended in around 1993! Obviously the options are second hand (ebay?) or new, but I'd appreciate some advice as to the best course of action. I'd post a wanted note here, but I first ought to sort out what it is that I'm after! The chain is still OK, but I'd consider changing the entire drivetrain if an authentic replacement exists (I assume not as Suntour no longer exists).
Having looked through some old threads, I was thrilled to hear that my faithful old "splatter" bike might have some retro cachet, so I'm even more up for getting out on it as much as possible. Just need the right advice on parts!
Much appreciated
Mike
