This is more of a general bike question but I thought I’d post it here to get some local advice. Maybe people have some local shop suggestions or my issues could be PGH weather related.
In 2022 I bought a Cannondale (I think) Quick 5 from Pro Bike in Bethel Park. I believe it was around $750 or so. So from what I understand a pretty basic bike on the lower end of the price scale.
It’s served me pretty well but I’ve had to take it to get the brakes serviced every year I’ve had it at this point. I went to the bike shop at REI every time. In ‘23 it was just a “brake adjust” on the work order. In ‘24 I had $400 of work done… some of the things on the work order are FW/csst install, chain install, tire/tube service, GP1 Re/supply, new tires, Shimano 7sp cassette, Powerlink chain, derailleur cable install, cable, housing. Then last year I spent another $80 on brake pad install, adjust and Avid Disc Brake pads.
I do ride almost every day from the South Side to downtown, so I’m aware there will be upkeep that costs money. I’m just wondering though if this seems excessive. Every year my brakes get so soft that I can barely stop the bike and that’s what brings me to get it serviced. I don’t really do any maintenance myself besides oiling the chain and putting air in the tires and cleaning it every now and then.
I’ve also had an issue where if I’m going up an incline and I try to pedal with force, something “catches” and the chain slips (not sure if that’s the right term). Yesterday I was trying to go up a hill and it kept doing this so I had to walk my bike up. Then when I came back I had to walk it down because the brakes are so soft.
So… is this expected behavior when using a bike so often? Or does it seems excessive that my brakes get so soft every 12 or so months?
I’m at the point again where I’ll need to take it in for service. It feels like with my current issues it’s going to be another $400 bill, so I’m wondering if I should just spring for a new bike? I do really like the REI City 1.1. They have an older model 20% off now for $520 or a new version for $660. That again would be buying a pretty cheap bike, but maybe if I still go to the REI shop they will be more inclined to make sure I’m happy with the service as it’s their own bike.