brakes

Question
I have a used Free Spirit 12 speed bicycle that I purchased from my brother who got it at a yard sale.  It seems to be a good bike, but what can I do about squeaking brakes?  Mine are levers just under the handle bars near the yoke.  Can you tell me who manufactured this bike?  Is there anything pro or con you can tell me about a twelve speed bike?  I usually just leave the left speed lever all the way up and adjust the right one from the low position for flat travel and high speed to raising it when I need easier pedaling going up grades. I am sixty years old and just getting into biking.   Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Doug,

Free Spirit as a 'shopping center' type of bike.  It is considered as low end.  Then again, if they are taken care of, they could last.  Sqeeking brakes is part of life with an older/low end bicycle.  It is always possible to get the brakes adjusted or having the brake pads changed at your local bike shop.  That's about it.

Good luck, and let me know if you need advice on buying a new one!

Cheers!

David