Replacing/upgrading parts on a specialized allez 09

[SamR2D2]

Hi everyone

Been a member of cycle chat since 2008 when I bought my first road bike, but for the last 2 years or so I haven't been out on it nearly enough. However a few friends have recently jumped in and bought road bikes and i've got right back into it.

Went out for a ride last saturday and the bike was making some strange noises, gears we're playing up a bit and the occasional skip in lower gears etc.

Since I've had it the only things that have been replaced are the tyres and the chain a couple of times. I used to keep it clean and lubed up etc but after looking at the rear cassette and some of the cabling it looks worn so i'm thinking about stripping it down, giving it a good once over and potentially replacing/upgrading some of the parts.

So if anyone has any advice about priorities of what to check/replace etc then I would be grateful. There's a decent LBS near me so if I did mess anything up the plan is to just take it round there and let them fix it

Here's the spec if anyone wants it - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/allez-18-2009-road-bike-ec016019#features

 

[accountantpete]

First up I'd get new cables all round (it helps if you also get some cable cutters) and give the mechs an oil.

I'd then spray the shifters with WD40 just to make sure they are free running.

If you still have problems then I'd change the chain and cassette and see if that improves things.