Unipack / Create / Sports Direct singlespeed track bikes?

You havent used the search function on this much... Tut tut...

I am not a very big fan of the UniCrap/ Create-A-Headache bikes. Mostly because i own one. I was actually on this forum BEFORE i bought the damn thing, but that was because it was rebranded the Create.

The long story short, is that IF he ever buys a new bike, he will LOVE that new bike. It will be the most amazing change in the world! I have upgraded to a OTP basic bike and it is like floating on air in comparison.

Where to start... My first advice, as he is your friend and new to this, please do me one BIG favour. Go over EVERY nut and bolt and tighten them. Seriously, EVERY single one. Including the bolt that holds the pedals!
That was the first thing to go on mine. It stripped so badly that i had to replace the whole bottom bracket/pedals/chain ring. It also aggravated an injury i got because the bike is as stable as a very-non-stable-thing.

The bike will sound like a tractor as well until all the moving parts are replaced.

Also, the bolt that holds the uprights to the stem REALLY needs tightening. I missed that one. While i was going round a corner, the handlebars came loose and flipped. Try braking when your brakes are over your wrists. I unceremoniously came off and into an old lady who picked me up and dusted me off and told me it would be OK. I was seriously shaken by that experience.

Apparently, even the wheels sometimes come out skew or the spokes snap. The chain is a particular pain i understand. When my BB was destroyed, i replaced the chain as well just in case.

The other thing to be concerned about are the brakes. They have the grip of a 5 yr old baby girl. And in the wet = Slippery as fuck. Which IMP is even worse than being a fixie skidder without brakes because youre not lulled into a false sense of security.

I KNOW that this is his first bike. Nothing wrong with that. I would encourage him to enjoy it. Though it may be an uphill battle with it. My suggestion is to replace parts before they go wrong because on the UniCrap, they do so in such a spectacular manner in the most inappropriate places.

This should be more of a warning to those that havent bought one who may.

So for your friend - (in order of cost)
1.tighten all the bolts and nuts first. (free if you got the tools)
2.Replace the chain as its cheap as chips.
3.The tires would need to be changed and if you would like to prevent unnecessary punctures, you need to get proper rim tape! They use some sort of rubber that is rubbish.

1. I would recommend replacing the BB/pedals/chainring but thats because of my personal experience. This would also make the ride A LOT smoother. It will also stop it from waking the neighbours when he rides passed.
   
   

I hope this helps!