|
|
|
|
When do I need to replace my chain?
|
|
A chain “stretches” through regular use. This does not mean the metal literally stretches, but over time the bushings between the plates of the chain wear down, and the chain becomes a little longer. “Stretch” is the main reason avid cyclists replace their chains, but if your chain is rusty or just plain ol’ grimy, it’s not a bad idea to replace it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What kind of valve do I have?
|
|
The Schrader valve is the type you will find on an automobile. Schrader valves are still used in some bicycle applications, but have become less popular because their size requires the drilling of a larger hole which significantly weakens narrow rims. The spring mechanism that keeps air inside a Schrader valve is also problematic for riders using compact pumps. A Presta valve can be identified by its smaller diameter and the locknut that is permanently attached to the tip of the valve.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What is a chainring?
|
|
Chainrings are the one, two or three large sprockets attached to the drive side of your crankset. Shifting from one chainring to another gives you different gearing options while riding.
|
|
|
|
|
A chainring is ready to be replaced when its teeth have become worn from use. Typical signs of the need for replacement are slippage of the chain and (rarely) excessive noise.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
When do I need to lubricate the cables on my bike?
|
|
Before the advent of plastic-lined cables, it was necessary to regularly use heavy oil or grease to lubricate the cables inside brake and derailleur cable housings. Thanks to plastic-lined cables, this procedure is largely obsolete. There are however a few points on the modern bicycle that can use an occasional oiling. The small section of cable near the rear derailleur and the sharp bends in cantilever brakes are two points on the bicycle that merit some attention to lubrication.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What is a freehub body?
|
|
A freehub is attached to the rear hub of your bicycle. It is a spinning mechanism designed to hold the cassette. Coasting when the pedals are at rest and pedaling are possible thanks to the freehub.
|
|
|
|
|
Start by removing the cassette.
To remove the cassette:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What kind of brakes do I have?
|
|
The easiest way to differentiate between a caliper brake and its counterpart, the cantilever brake, is to look where the brake is attached to the frame of your bicycle. If the brake is attached at two points, you have a cantilever brake. If the brake is attached by a single, centered bolt, you have a caliper brake. This article will discuss adjustments of the caliper brake.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-->
|
|
When do I need to calculate the length of my chain?
|
If you are buying, or have recently purchased, a new chain, you will need to measure the proper length before installation. New chains are usually longer than necessary so they are compatible with most bikes. ...
|
|
|
|
|
There are three sets of bearings in most bikes: the headset bearings, the bottom bracket bearings, and the wheel bearings.
|
|
|
|
|
Knowing how to fix a flat is perhaps the first step toward a good understanding of bicycle maintenance. It’s really not hard. It may take a while before you can change a flat in less than two minutes in the dark on the side of the road like the old Tour de France racers, but it won’t take long at all for you to become pretty good – and far more self reliant on the road or trail.
|
|
|
|
|
Installing a seat on your bike is pretty easy, but proper adjustment is an important process that can take a little trial-and-error.
|
|
|
|
|
|
When do I need to replace my loose bearing bottom bracket?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sign up now and start adding Friends right away!
|
San Francisco, CA
|
|
|
|
Temp:
|
11°C
|
|
Wind Chill:
|
11°C
|
|
Humidity:
|
66%
|
|
|
Speed:
|
10 km/h
|
|
Direct.:
|
320°
|
|
Barom.:
|
1022.4 mb
|
|
NW
|
|
Weather Details
|
Provided by:
|
|
|
