I would take the bike to a shop for a good once over. I invested in a
bike stand, and also found a Pedro's bike wash kit, that came with a
pale, sponge, lubricant for the chain, and a product called "Bike Lust"
which you can spray on the frame after washing and drying it. It makes
the frame shine like new, and also helps resist mud, or at the very
least, helps the mud come off much easier. I just throw the bike in
the stand and wash with the sponge.

--
rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers. To find help solving
posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/
Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt