The OutSPOKEn Cyclist
By Diane Jenks
As Freddie Mercury declared in his famous “Fat Bottom Girls” album… “Get on your bikes and ride!”
Awesome advice, right? And now that the weather has turned to a real summery spring here in Northeast Ohio, it IS time to get out that bicycle and get some riding in on our great trails and paths.
SOOO — here’s what you need to do to get READY to ride.
First, and this is really important: There is an unprecedented (that is the word of 2021, isn’t it?) shortage of bicycles and bicycle parts. In part, this is because of the pandemic and in part because there is a mini bike boom happening. Actually, they are related, but that’s another story.
So, as you bring that bike up out of the basement or out of the garage, the first thing you need to do is check it over.
– Take a good look at the tires:
- Are there any cuts in the tread or the sidewalls?
- Are the sidewalls “dry” and flaky? (This means the tires are old and should be replaced)
- Are the tires flat and will they hold air AFTER you pump them up?
- If they don’t hold air, what caused the puncture? (This could be a tiny piece of glass, a thorn or even a nail.)
– Check all the cables:
- Are any of the cables frayed ANYWHERE? if so, have them replaced.
- Is the sheathing (better known as cable housing) broken or cracked? See above!
– Brakes & Wheels: Muy importante!!!! (Very important!)
- Are the brake pads, those rubbery things next to the wheel rims, worn, hard, or cracked? If so, have them replaced.
- When you spin the wheels, do they wobble? If so, have them trued.
- Are there dents in the rim(s)? If so, they may have to be replaced.
Bearings: Found on many places on a bicycle, they should all allow for smooth movement of the part for which they are intended.
- Check the steering by picking up the front end and moving the handlebars from side to side. If there is any stickiness, roughness or “catching,” the bearings need to be checked and possibly replaced.
- Check the crank where the pedals go around. Pick up the rear end of the bike and slowly spin the crank. If there is roughness, stickiness, or noise — yep, they need to be checked and/or replaced.
- Check the wheels by spinning them slowly, one at a time. If there is noise… see above!
Miscellaneous:
- If your saddle is loose, tighten it. If it is pointing downward and that is the most comfortable position for you, find a bike fitter. That is not a good position.
- Make sure your handlebars and handlebar stem are tight and that everything lines up.
- Check your chain for any kinks and make sure you lube it before you start riding.
All of the forgoing being said, bike shops are slammed right now and will probably give you some date into the future when they can work on your bike. Call ahead, find out their lead time(s), and make an appointment. Then, please show up on time! Wear a mask (even if you are vaccinated). Ask for an estimate once they get the bike on the repair stand. (They may have to call you.)
If you don’t want to GO to the bike shop, there are now many mobile mechanics who will come to you. You can search for them online for your area. They usually work on an appointment basis, too.
If you are mechanically inclined and HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS, you can do much of this pre-season check-up yourself. HOWEVER, trust your local bike shop to do the intricate work that will keep you safe and your bike running efficiently.
Finally, remember that Ohio law states you need to have front and rear reflectors, a bell, and if you are riding at night, a headlight. We also recommend a flashing taillight.
Now… remember what Freddie said and I hope to see YOU out on your bike this season!
Image courtesy pexels.com
