Helpful Bike Tips

So, you just got a new bike! Wow! Lots of moving part here; gears, cables oh boy! Well if you got it from us, there is one year of free tune-ups, but what if something happens out there on the road or trail? If you keep your bike in good shape, thankfully problems are few. The mos common problem is the dreaded flat tire. Yes, you will get on some day. But it is easy to fix your self. So here are some lessons and some handy tips to let you stay outside or in the woods, paths, and roads confident that you can fix any unforseen small problems.

Flat

Ok, if you have quick release wheels you do not need tools to remove them. If you have another type you should carry the right size wrench.

Tools: Tire levers (help a tough tire off the rim)
Tube: get the size and valve type specified for your wheel
Pump: either a mini pump or a CO2 inflator, with CO2 (CO2 is faster, very handy when the gnats are out!)
  1. First remove the wheel (ask us, we will show you how)
  2. Next look for anything in the tread. Look for nails, thorns, etc. that could have caused the flat and have remained in the tire.
  3. Starting opposite the valve, try and remove the tire from the rim. If you can%u2019t put a tire lever under the edge, pry up and around until the tire is off one side. The other side should now come off by hand.
  4. Pull out the tube and rub your finger tip around the inside of the tire, if you feel any sharp object inside pull it OUT!!
  5. Now do it again, anything left in the tire will flat you again.
  6. Put on side of the tire back on the rim.
  7. Get your new tube and put in just enough air to give it shape (with a presta valve you can do it with a strong breath!)
  8. Put the tube in the tire valve first, pushing the rest of the tube into the tire.
  9. Now, starting at the valve, push the tire bead onto the rim. It will get tough at the end sometimes. So if need use the tire lever, very carefully, so as not to pinch the tube.
  10. Re inflate- Reinstall-Ride!!
    Sounds easy, huh?
    Stop by and watch one of our skilled mechanics do a personal demonstration for you.

To patch, or not to patch?

If in a hurry a spare tube saves time. But a patch can get you home too. Inflate tire, find the hole, and put the patch on according ti the kit. Then do the above to install.

Tools

You want to be prepared out there so here are a few tools you will need.
  • The pump / inflator, and tire levers of course
  • Allen wrenches, most new bike bolts are in metric sized
  • Small screwdriver (there are compact mini tools that have a lot of these tools in one handy device)
  • Chain tool, learn how to use one first.
    We carry all of these tools in our shop and would be glad to explain how to properly use them.

Lube
The bike requires light lubrication.
The chain needs a good bike lube (NOT WD-40)
Good lubes contain Teflon and other additives to keep it cleaner and smoother

Grease
Bearings are packed in grease and can break down over time. Re packing bearings is a great way to prevent unnecessary repairs. A high quality grease can be used in the hubs and bottom bracket of your bicycle. This product can be found at our store,
Cables can also use a light coating for protection. Always use less oil and more grease then you think you should.
Wipe access lube from your chain with a rag.

Tips

  • When washing a bike use elbow grease, not water pressure
  • A with wall tire brush, bucket, and soap are all you need.
  • Re lube after every washing.
  • Keep tires inflated to recommended PSI this will ensure maximum inertia and be less likely to receive a puncture
  • Most flats occur from low air pressure (pinch flats)
  • Carry a dollar bill with you it can patch a rip in the side wall of the tire, or buy you a snack when you Bonk!
  • Do not ignore odd sound. Locating its origin can be the difference maker
  • If you have any questions, call us. Even from the road
  • When you remove your rear wheel place the deraileur in the lowest cog. This way you will remember what gear you are in and will allow for a soother reinstallation.
  • A little duct tape on an allen wrench and some zip ties can save the day
  • Keep extra tubes on you at all times

Other Helpful Tips

  • The water bottle bolts will fit other various places in an emergency
  • Check crank bolts every month
  • Bike polish will clean up your ride after a rainy muddy ride
  • The more you learn about your bike the more personal it becomes
  • Maintenance can be a fun project on a sunny day with friends
  • It feels good to help out a fellow biker on the road or trail
  • Keep on rollin'

And Smile!!
Helpful Bike Tips
Professional Fit
For the Shopper
How To Change a Flat Tire