Bicycle Repair

Bicycle Repair

Maintaining a bicycle ensures a smooth and safe ride. Routine checks and repairs can extend the lifespan of your bike and improve performance. Here are some essential tips and steps for common bicycle repairs.

Tools You Will Need

• Bicycle repair stand
• Hex wrenches
• Torque wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Tire levers
• Pump with pressure gauge
• Chain tool
• Lubricant

Tire and Tube Maintenance

Regularly check tire pressure. Under-inflated tires wear out quickly and make pedaling harder.

• Remove the wheel from the bike.
• Deflate the tire completely.
• Use tire levers to remove the tire from the rim.
• Inspect the tire for debris or thorns.
• Check the tube for holes by inflating slightly and listening for leaks.
• Patch or replace the tube if necessary.
• Reinstall the tire and tube, ensuring that the bead of the tire seats evenly on the rim.
• Pump to recommended pressure.

Brake Adjustment

Properly adjusted brakes are crucial for safety. Here’s how to adjust rim brakes:

• Inspect brake pads for wear. Replace if the grooves are worn down.
• Loosen the bolt that secures the brake pad.
• Align the brake pad so it contacts the rim evenly.
• Tighten the bolt to secure the pad.
• Ensure the pad does not touch the tire.
• Adjust the brake cable tension using the barrel adjuster. The pads should be close but not touching the rim.
• Test the brakes by squeezing the brake lever. The lever should not touch the handlebar grip.

Chain Maintenance

A well-lubricated chain shifts smoothly and lasts longer.

• Clean the chain using a degreaser and a brush.
• Allow the chain to dry completely.
• Apply a drop of lubricant to each link.
• Wipe off excess lubricant to prevent grime buildup.

Derailleur Adjustment

Derailleurs ensure smooth shifting. To adjust:

• Shift to the smallest chainring and the smallest rear cog.
• Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the cable tension.
• If the chain does not shift cleanly, adjust the high and low limit screws on the derailleur.
• For the front derailleur, ensure it clears the chain by 2-3mm while in the largest chainring.
• For the rear derailleur, ensure it aligns perfectly with the cogs when you shift.

Wheel Truing

An untrue wheel can cause wobbles. To true a wheel:

• Place the bike in a repair stand.
• Spin the wheel and observe for wobbles.
• Use a spoke wrench to adjust the tension of the spokes.
• Tighten the spokes on the side the wheel deviates toward.
• Loosen the spokes on the opposite side.
• Make small adjustments and check frequently.

Crankset and Bottom Bracket

Regularly inspect the crankset and bottom bracket for wear and tear. To check:

• Spin the crank arms and check for smooth rotation.
• Listen for any clicking or grinding sounds.
• Tighten crank arm bolts using a torque wrench.
• Remove and regrease the bottom bracket if sounds persist.
• Inspect the chainrings for wear. Replace if teeth are worn or damaged.

Headset Maintenance

The headset ensures smooth steering. To inspect and adjust:

• Check for play by rocking the headset back and forth.
• Loosen the stem bolts.
• Adjust the headset bolt to eliminate play, but don’t over-tighten.
• Retighten the stem bolts evenly.

Saddle and Seatpost

A proper saddle and seatpost setup enhances comfort. To adjust:

• Check the saddle height. When seated, your knee should have a slight bend at the bottom of the pedal stroke.
• Loosen the seatpost clamp and adjust the height.
• Ensure the saddle is level. Use a spirit level if needed.
• Tighten the seatpost clamp securely.
• If the saddle is uncomfortable, consider replacing it with one that suits your riding style.

Handlebars and Stem

The handlebars and stem affect your bike’s handling. To adjust:

• Check the handlebar alignment. It should be perpendicular to the front wheel.
• Loosen the bolts on the stem and align the handlebars.
• Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque.
• Inspect the handlebar grips or tape. Replace if worn out.
• Ensure the headset is properly adjusted to avoid any play in the handlebars.

Final Checks

After performing all necessary repairs and adjustments, conduct a final check:

• Ensure all bolts are tightened to the correct torque.
• Test the brakes for proper function.
• Check the shifting of both front and rear derailleurs.
• Ensure the saddle and handlebars are secure.
• Do a brief test ride to confirm everything is working smoothly.