For the last several years, I've been learning to do a lot of my own maintenance on my bikes. Learning how to change tires when they're worn was a gateway drive to learning how to maintain chains, brake pads, chainrings, gear clusters; and how to replace them when they wear out.
Learning how to do a basic tune-up helps a lot, too. Once you're comfortable adjusting limit and indexing screws on a rear derailer, you'll keep the bike shifting smoothly because it's easier and quicker than bringing it to the shop.
At the same time, supporting your local bike shop will pay off. I'm not comfortable with brakes and I don't have the tools to replace brake/shifter cables, so I bring the bike in for that.
Bike mechanics are generally happy to talk shop. There's nothing wrong with asking, "I adjusted X, did I do a good job?" Of course, keep in mind that bike mechanics see a lot of would-be mechanics asking them to fix their repair messes. So know your limits before you end up spending more money than it would have cost to just have a pro do the job in the first place.
Who here uses a bike for everyday transportation?
April 30, 2019 at 10:18AM
