:::: Pauls Parts - Basic Bicycle Tips ::::

Bicycles are such simple, sturdy machines that many owners seldom think about maintenance unless some thing breaks. But spending a few minutes before a ride, and a few dollars before the bicycling season begins, will make bicycling safer and more enjoyable. You don't want to be cruising down a steep hill with a stop sign at the bottom and find that your brake cable is broken. Nor is a flat tire ten miles from home any fun.

Check tires for correct tire pressure, cuts and worn spots. Check brake cables and brake pads for wear and try the brakes as you begin your ride.

Check for loose nuts and bolts and loose spokes. Make sure the chain is clean and lubricated and gears are working properly. Check the headset (the place where the handlebars attach to the bike frame). If the headset wobbles, the bearings may be worn and you may find your self unable to steer the bike in an emergency. Also, make sure the wheels are true (that they don't wobble from side to side as they spin). Wheels that are out of true are hard to pedal, will limit braking power and eventually may collapse.

Overhaul your bike -- regrease bearings, hubs and bottom bracket, true the wheels, replace worn or rusted parts, clean and lubricate the chain and gears.

Bikes are easy to repair and maintain yourself, or you can turn the job over to a bike mechanic. However, the mechanic won't be with you all the time, so you should buy a basic bike tool kit and learn to do simple repairs such as changing a tire. If you want to learn to fix your bike yourself, check with local bike shops and bike clubs to find out if bike maintenance clinics are offered in your community. Or, you can ask for help from a friend who fixes bikes, or buy or borrow a do-it yourself book on bicycle maintenance.