Once you get an understanding of how to insure that your bicycle tire is inflated correctly, you will be able to pump your bike tire correctly without a problem before every ride! Step 1: Locate the P.S.I Labeled on Your Tire Every tire has a maximum inflation recommendation (in Pounds per Square Inch - P.S.I.) labeled on the side of the tire. If you follow this number, you and your tire will be happy campers (or cyclists as the case may be). Riding with your tire pressure too low can lead to … [Read more...]
The Guide to Fixing a Flat Bicycle Tire
Fixing a flat tire when you are out on the ride can be a scary thought, but once you know how to fix a bike tire that has gone flat, you will be ready to ride, even if your ride is interrupted. How to fix a flat in 7 easy steps: What You Will Need A good set of tire levers like these A portable bicycle pump like this A tire patch tube kit like this one New tubes that correlate to your tire size A 15mm box or crescent wrench if your bicycle does not have a quick release 1. … [Read more...]
Spring Tune Up!
It’s starting to get nice out and you are ready to take the bike out for a spin, but you aren’t sure if it is good to go. Sound familiar? It is important to make sure that your bike is in good working order each and every time you ride, but it is especially important to check your bike at the start of the season. Parts of your bike may have become loose or deflated during winter storage and may need to be fixed either by you or a professional. This article will highlight some tips for … [Read more...]
Bike Maintenance 101
The first rule to remember is a clean bike is a happy bike. Road grit and grime will work its way into the chain and cogs on your bike and create a lot of friction and noise - not to mention wear out the cogs and chain early. Thankfully, cleaning your bike takes only a few minutes, a bucket of water with soap (bike-specific cleaner or, in a pinch, mild dish detergent) and a brush or old rag. It's a good idea to clean your bike after every ride you do in the rain or on wet roads. Generally, … [Read more...]
Maintenance Guidelines
Before each ride: If the chain is dry, put a drop of lube on each link pin (where the links meet). Backpedal the chain for a minute to work the lube into the pins and wipe it down with a rag. Squeeze the brakes. If they feel mushy, dial out (that's counterclockwise) the barrel adjusters on the levers or at the brake arms. Once a month: Check shifting and brakes, lube cables, and wheels. Use lube on suspension the fork sliders. Every three months: Check brake pads and inspect chain … [Read more...]
Brake Basics
It goes without saying that keeping your brakes in good working order is a must. Check your brakes often to make sure they are contacting the rim and not the tire. If your brake pad is rubbing the tire, you'll have a flat on your hands very soon. Also, make sure your brakes are centered over the front and rear wheels by spinning the wheels while you lift the bike off the ground. If your brakes are off center, your rim could rub the brake pads and slow you down. If the brakes appear off center, … [Read more...]