Even though the frame may appear to be one solid, immovable object, it’s not unheard of for them to go out of alignment occasionally. Any kind of impact — whether it’s an accident, your bike falling over, or jumping your bike over a curb — …
Bike Repair
Checking your brakes takes only a few seconds, and it can be one of the most important things you do before setting off on a ride. Start by visually inspecting the brake pads for wear; confirm that there are still grooves cut into the pads. …
Certain repairs probably shouldn’t be attempted while you’re on the road. In some cases, you probably won’t have the tools with you. In other cases, the chance of a malfunction happening makes continued riding a dangerous proposition. Here are some situations when you should put …
There are a number of different ways in which saddles attach to seat posts. On some older or lower-end models, the seat post and the seat clamp are two separate pieces with the bolt horizontal and tightened with a nut (as shown in Figure 9-4). …
If the cable is frayed, kinked, or worn, it probably needs replacing. When you go to buy a new cable, make sure you buy cable and housing (the rubber coated sheath) that is made specifically for derailleurs — it’s normally a little thinner than brake …
The rear derailleur is the biggest factor in shifting performance. Top-end derailleurs have stronger springs and tighter bushings and pivot points that allow for easier and faster shifting. These derailleurs are designed with jockey wheels with higher-end bearings, which cause less resistance and smoother chain …
In This Chapter ^ Identifying the different parts of a bike ^ Understanding the role bearings play in reducing friction ^ Uncovering the importance of threads and how to protect them ^ Discovering how cables control the bike ^ Exploring how gears work and the …
After you’ve identified the source of the leak (see the preceding section), follow these steps to patch the tube: 1. Lay the tube on a flat surface. 2. Using the abrasive paper or metal scraper included in your puncture repair kit, rough up the area …
The freewheel (shown in Figure 11-1) is a part of a clutch-like system that was a significant advance in the design of bicycles. Older bikes are designed with freewheels that consist of individual cogs (toothed disks surrounding the hub on your rear wheel that combine …
One of the best ways to extend the life of your bike doesn’t require a special tool or a fresh application of lube. All you have to do is be careful when you ride. Although modern bikes are designed to withstand a significant amount of …