Using bicycles is one of the most eco-friendly means of transportation. Generally, they are enough for individuals to reach various nearby destinations without delay. Additionally, their carbon footprint is significantly less than cars and motorcycles. However, like everything else, a bicycle repair is necessary if you wish to keep it in excellent condition. Otherwise, continuous use may put you at risk of accidents.
While there are plenty of shops that offer bicycle repair, you might choose to learn DIY since it would be beneficial, especially if there are no nearby establishments to fix whatever trouble you might encounter with it.
Therefore, one of the first things you need to know regarding bicycle repair is the numerous mistakes you need to avoid making. Continue reading this article if you want to learn more.
6 Common Bicycle Repair Mistakes You Need to Know
- Too Much Tire Pressure
Similar to vehicles and motorcycles, bicycles need air in their tires to function properly. However, the air inside leaks as you continue to use it due to various factors. Some possible reasons include punctures due to sharp objects, damaged valve stem, and ripped tire. Unfortunately, it doesn’t necessarily need to be an issue for air to leak out from the tires. It can pass through rubber and the tiny passages in its valve. Depending on your usage, you might want to add more air at least once a week.
However, if you determine the cause to be a problem in one of its components, consider visiting a bicycle workshop for maintenance and acquisition of replacement parts.
- Too Much Lube
Since cleaning your bicycle is a necessary part of maintenance, you shouldn’t forget to lube its chains. This step is crucial since a smooth ride depends on it. Ideally, you should aim for the pins that are holding it together. Additionally, you should be careful not to drop too much lube. Otherwise, your next ride will be messy.
Therefore, if you accidentally apply too much lube, don’t forget to wipe off the excess. Moreover, ensure that whatever product you’re using, is for bicycles as other oils won’t work. If you don’t have one, the nearest repair bicycle shop should have some for sale.
- Lack of Maintenance
Products, including bicycles, have components that enable them to fulfil their intended function. Over time and with continuous usage, these pieces can get dirty or damaged. When it happens, maintenance is necessary to ensure everything remains all right.
As owners, you shouldn’t wait for problems to worsen before you initiate bicycle repair. As much as possible, you should clean it once every two weeks. You should also feel free to do it more than once if you notice a significant accumulation of dirt.
Failure to perform regular maintenance may result in a malfunction, leading to accidents that could potentially injure you or someone.
- Using Inappropriate Tools
Like everything else, initiating bicycle repair requires several tools that are appropriate for it. You can’t expect all of the items you use for cars or motorcycles to work as effectively as those dedicated to bicycle maintenance.
Continuous use of inappropriate tools can damage your bicycle and worsen its condition. Ideally, you would only need to invest in the following items to solve most of the possible issues:
- Set of Allen keys
- Cable snips
- Bottom bracket tool
- Pedal scanner
- Cassette removal tool
- Chain whip
Having a high-quality set of these tools will generally last a lifetime. However, be on the lookout for possible wear and tear. Replace them as soon as possible as using them can damage your bicycle.
- Over-Tightening Anything
While loose screws or bolts are dangerous for you and your bicycle, excessive tightening can also lead to accidents. If yours have tight bolts and screws, you can expect stripped threads, compressed components, and cracked parts.
If you are unsure of how tight they should be, head over to a nearby bicycle workshop to have a mechanic see and adjust them according to the appropriate tightness.
- Approaching Any Bicycle Repair Services
Since there will be times when DIY isn’t enough to solve your problems, heading to a bicycle repair shop can help address your concerns. However, you should be cautious and research reputable establishments.
Ideally, you want a professional to take care of your bicycle. Additionally, you want the store to have a decent reputation among your fellow bicycle users. Paying for the services of any establishment can end up causing you more trouble. For example, if your issue requires replacing an old component, you might receive a low-quality replacement which won’t last long. Moreover, some of its screws may go missing, especially those that won’t cause immediate accidents.
Conclusion
Bicycle repair is an essential part of owning one. While there are shops that could do the job, it is ideal to have some knowledge on how to fix some of its usual problems. Having some experience in DIY can help you when you’re in situations where access to a repair service isn’t available. Moreover, it can save you some money if you know how to fix it.
As a way to end this article, here is a quick recap of the 6 common bicycle repair mistakes you need to avoid making:
First, you should avoid adding too much air to your tires. High pressure can cause it to burst, causing you to pay for a new tire.
Second, there is such a thing as too much lube. Ideally, you want to hit the pins holding the chains together. However, you wouldn’t want to drench it since it would be a waste, not to mention the possibility of a messy ride.
Third, lack of maintenance can lead to various issues with your bicycle. As dirt and dust accumulate, its components will have more difficulty working properly. Therefore, you should clean it according to how often you use it.
Fourth, never assume that the tools for a car or motorcycle will work great for a bicycle. Doing so puts it at risk of damage.
Fifth, never over tighten the bolts and screws of your bicycle. Doing so can damage its components.
Lastly, research reputable bicycle repair shops to determine which will offer the best service.
If you’re looking for a bicycle shop on the East Coast, check out Coastline Leisure. Visit their website and learn more about their services, such as bicycle repair and roller blade rental.
