Newbie trying to fix his bicycle

[shucks]

If you haven't got a multitool, I'd recommend this one http://www.wiggle.co.uk/topeak-hexus-ii-16-function-multi-tool/ . It includes a very good chain breaker. But before you break your chain, try oiling it. Use the @mickle method (do we still call it that?) http://www.cyclorama.net/blog/advice/51/ You just need some oil, and an bit of an old t-shirt. If it's still moving well, the rust may be just cosmetic, and this should clean it up. Generally I'd expect a chain to last longer than a tube.

Edit: Don't use the tyre levers on the multitool. Apparently they break easily, and you need them for other purposes. I like Park Tools levers http://www.wiggle.co.uk/park-tool-tl1c-tyre-levers/

Managed to change my tube without any problems. I've actually also borrowed my mate's GT40 and sprayed the chain while giving it a wipe, most of the rust's effects seem to have disappeared, you're right jefmcg! the rust is just cosmetic and my ride feels new again. i'll probably change my chain when my it is more worn out.

Will keep this thread in mind when I do actually change it.

Thanks for everything guys! Appreciate the help

 

[Ajax Bay]

OP's ques

1) What kind of inner tube should I be getting/ what size should it be? I find it rather fortunate that I've been using this bicycle day in day out for over a year and this is my first puncture, I'm not sure what is the stock inner tube Giant fits into their wheels but I would love to get the same one.

Just some specs that I've searched online, the wheel is a Giant S-X2 puncture protect 700x32mm (I'm guessing 700x32mm is the size of the inner tube I should be looking for but I get confusing results as I browsed through all the online shops) It would be great if someone could recommend me a particular size or brand of inner tube.

2) What kind of equipment do I require? I'm guessing I would only require a Tyre lever and an air pump? My rear wheel has a quick release so that's not too bad. Also if there's any special tyre lever I should be looking out for that would be amazing.

3) Lastly, this is kind of a different topic, but because I've failed to take proper care of my bike (which I regret now and promise not to do so again), my bicycle chain has rusted horribly, and even though it's working well, I would like to change it, plus the pedals are starting to make squeaky noises.

700x27-38 (anything with 32 in its range). Presta if that's what you've got. Length of valve eg 42, 60 does not matter (for you) - measure your current one in mm for confidence. Kenda are cheapish and strong.

Two tyre levers

I'd always go for three and they're often sold in sets of three. Make sure the ones you get are sufficiently stiff - some at the cheap end are too bendy. You will need a pump to reinflate the tyre. I'd but two nes inner tubes, use one and have one spare. Get a puncture patch kit to repair the punctured inner (you've replaced) and that's a useful spare too. Patch kit is useful to carry if you don't want to carry an inner tube around.

If it's still moving well, the rust may be just cosmetic, and this should clean it up

Agree with @jefmg as the first action before going to the effort of replacing the chain.

You can take off the pedals and give them a clean, grease and replace which may solve squeaking. Otherwise, new pedals are inexpensive.

Your local bike shop would be worth a visit for much of the items discussed above.

 

[MikeW-71]

Managed to change my tube without any problems. I've actually also borrowed my mate's GT40 and sprayed the chain while giving it a wipe, most of the rust's effects seem to have disappeared, you're right jefmcg! the rust is just cosmetic and my ride feels new again. i'll probably change my chain when my it is more worn out.

Will keep this thread in mind when I do actually change it.

Thanks for everything guys! Appreciate the help

If it was WD40, that's great for cleaning the chain, but now give it a good wipe until it is dry and apply some new lube to it. You don't need much, just a small drop on each link of the chain.

The reason is that WD40 is primarily a degreaser, and while it contains a light lubricant, it doesn't last any time at all.

While you're on a roll, get some hot water with washing up liquid in and clean the rims (I'm assuming rim brakes) and brake pads with it.

 

[Karlt]

Probably GT80, but that's still not really a chain lube.