Bicycle servicing/repair/tuning
Many questions can be answered over the phone. However, a mechanic needs to see and evaluate the bicycle in order to have an accurate idea of what it will cost the customer to have it repaired.
Safety check and test ride:
- 1. Fill tires several hours before you bring it in to find out if the tubes hold air. If when full you see dry rot cracks on the sides of the tires, the tires should be replaced. If you doubt the bicycle's safety then bring it into the shop before test riding.
- 2. Safety check: Spin each wheel while raising the frame to see if the wheel spins without hitting brake pads or frame. Stand in front of the bicycle with the front wheel in your legs, and check the stem to fork tightness. If this loosens: unsafe.
- 3. Verify whether the chain is sitting on the gears and not off. Turn crank with rear wheel raised and check for excessive play in the bottom bracket (the main crank bearing) and for crank arm attacment tightness.
- 4. Roll the bike forward and squeeze brakes one at a time to check for stopping power and proper brake return.
If there are any problems noticed during the test ride, note where they happen and what the noise is. Remember when you are shifting, try to avoid the chain being on the big in back to big in front as well as the other extreme of small in back to small in front. This is bad chain alignment and tension, not a bad adjustment. Noise during some or all gears is a problem.
Most frequent part replacements: