Bike spring clean.

[riwiho]

The last time I rode my bike was just before Christmas, a combination of little to no time, poor weather and knowing the bike has a puncture did not help. Bad form I know.

I went to the bike this AM to give it an overhaul and ready for some riding again. Chain and some parts of the bike are rusted, clad in dry mud (v.poor form for not cleaning it after the last ride) and looked pretty sorry for itself.

Before I go diving in with my basic bike maintenance knowledge what would you recommend for a spring clean? What would you do if you had neglected a bike for a similar period?

Thanks

[craig_s]

How confident are you with taking the bike apart and re-building it? That's what I'd be looking at doing. That way you can give everything a proper clean and check for any hidden damage at the same time.
Depending on how badly the chain has rusted it could mean it's time for a new one which could also mean a new cassette at the same time if it has worn down.
It is a bit of a hassle but a proper clean will have the bike feeling like new again so it is worth it.
Good luck!

[ed_crouch]

Amazing how much better a fork can feel for a re-lube of the wiper donuts too. Lowers off, clean wiper seals, relube donuts with float fluid/red rum, reassemble with new bath oil and jobs a goodun. This isnt a comprehensive instruction guide.....!