Bicycle Repair Guide

Bicycle Repair Guide

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport and a great way to stay fit. Knowing how to repair and maintain your bike can save you time and money.

Tools You’ll Need

• Allen wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• Tire levers
• Spoke wrench
• Chain tool
• Lubricant
• Pump
• Patch kit
• Torque wrench

Fixing a Flat Tire

Remove the wheel from the bike. Use tire levers to pry the tire off the rim. Remove the tube from inside the tire. Inflate the tube slightly to find the hole. Use a patch kit to seal the hole. Reinsert the tube into the tire. Fit one side of the tire back onto the rim. Carefully fit the other side of the tire over the rim, making sure the tube doesn’t get pinched. Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure. Reattach the wheel to the bike.

Adjusting Brakes

If your brakes feel spongy or don’t stop the bike effectively, they might need adjustment. Check the brake pads for wear. If they’re worn, replace them. Locate the barrel adjuster on the brake lever. Turn the adjuster counterclockwise to add tension to the brake cable. Check the brake’s response. If further adjustment is needed, use an Allen wrench to adjust the brake cable at the caliper. Ensure the brake pads are aligned with the rim and not touching the tire.

Tuning the Derailleurs

Shifting issues often indicate the derailleurs need tuning. Start with the rear derailleur. Shift to the smallest cog. Turn the barrel adjuster on the shifter to fine-tune the cable tension. If the chain won’t shift smoothly between cogs, adjust the limit screws. The limit screws are usually marked ‘H’ for high and ‘L’ for low. Adjust ‘H’ to stop the chain from falling off the smallest cog. Adjust ‘L’ for the largest cog. For the front derailleur, follow a similar process. Make sure it’s aligned with the chainrings and adjusted to prevent the chain from rubbing.

Lubricating the Chain

A well-lubricated chain ensures smooth shifting and prolongs the life of your drivetrain. Clean the chain with a rag and degreaser. Apply a drop of bike-specific lubricant to each link. Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent dirt from sticking to the chain.

Truing a Wheel

If your wheel wobbles, it needs truing. Lift the bike so the wheel can spin freely. Spin the wheel and identify any wobble. Use a spoke wrench to adjust the tension of the spokes. Tighten the spokes on the side that the wheel is wobbling away from. Make small adjustments and recheck the wheel’s true frequently.

Adjusting Saddle Height

Saddle height affects comfort and pedaling efficiency. Loosen the seat post clamp using an Allen wrench. Adjust the saddle to a height where your leg is slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Tighten the seat post clamp securely.

Fixing a Skipping Chain

A skipping chain can be frustrating. Often, it’s due to a worn chain or cassette. Measure the chain wear with a chain checker tool. If it’s stretched, replace it. Inspect the cassette for wear. If the teeth are worn, replace the cassette as well. Ensure the new chain and cassette are compatible with each other.

Maintaining Suspension Forks

Suspension forks require periodic maintenance for optimal performance. Clean the stanchions with a soft cloth after rides. Check the manufacturer’s manual for service intervals. Regularly lubricate the seals with fork-specific lubricant. If you notice reduced performance or leaking oil, it might be time for a professional service.

Checking and Tensioning Spokes

Loose spokes can negatively affect your ride. Inspect the spokes for tension using your fingers. Tighten any loose spokes with a spoke wrench. Ensure the wheel remains true as you adjust the spokes.

Inspecting and Replacing Bearings

Bearings in the hubs, bottom bracket, and headset wear out over time. Inspect these components regularly. If you notice roughness or play, it’s time to replace them. Remove the affected part using appropriate tools. Clean the seating area thoroughly. Install the new bearings ensuring they are seated properly.

Cleaning Your Bike

Regular cleaning helps maintain your bike’s performance and longevity. Use a gentle bike-specific cleaner. Avoid using a high-pressure hose, as it can force water into bearings. Clean the drivetrain with a degreaser and a brush. Rinse the bike with low-pressure water and dry it with a soft cloth. Lubricate the chain and other moving parts after washing.

Replacing Brake Cables

Over time, brake cables stretch and wear out. To replace them, start by loosening the cable anchor bolt on the brake caliper. Remove the old cable from the housing and lever. Insert the new cable, ensuring it runs smoothly through the housing. Tighten the anchor bolt and adjust the brake tension as needed.

Patching a Tube vs. Replacing It

Patching a tube is a temporary fix. If you notice multiple patches or severe damage, consider replacing it. To replace a tube, follow the same steps as fixing a flat tire, but use a new tube instead of patching the old one.

Repairing a Bent Derailleur Hanger

A bent derailleur hanger can cause shifting issues. Remove the rear derailleur using an Allen wrench. Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to straighten it. Reattach the derailleur and adjust the shifting as needed.

Installing and Adjusting Clipless Pedals

Clipless pedals offer efficient energy transfer. To install, grease the threads and screw them into the crank arms securely. Adjust the release tension to a comfortable level. Practice clipping in and out before your first ride.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

• Weekly: Check tire pressure, inspect brakes and chain.
• Monthly: Thoroughly clean bike, inspect drivetrain and cables.
• Quarterly: Inspect and lubricate bearings, true wheels.
• Annually: Professional inspection and service.

Tips for DIY Cable Routing

Internal cable routing can be tricky. Use a magnet to guide the cables through the frame. Attach a thin string to the cable before pulling it through tight spots. Ensure cables are not kinked or twisted.

Understanding Gear Ratios

Gear ratios affect your pedaling efficiency. A lower ratio offers easier pedaling at slower speeds. A higher ratio is harder to pedal but allows higher speeds. Knowing how to adjust your gearing can help you ride more efficiently.

Replacing a Broken Spoke

Broken spokes need immediate replacement. Remove the damaged spoke using a spoke wrench. Insert the new spoke and thread it into the nipple. Tighten and true the wheel as needed.

Greasing and Inspecting the Bottom Bracket

Remove the crank arms and bottom bracket with appropriate tools. Clean the threads and apply new grease. Inspect the bearings for wear and replace if necessary. Reassemble and ensure proper torque on all bolts.

Preventing and Fixing Chain Suck

Chain suck occurs when the chain sticks to the chainrings. Keep the drivetrain clean and properly lubricated. If chain suck persists, inspect the chainrings for wear and replace if needed.