Don't Blow Up Your Tire
July 21, 2011 One of the most common misconceptions of bicycle maintenance is the tire pressure. Despite a lot of advertising that hypes about, pumping more air into your tires are not as safe nor as effective as a balanced strategy. Tires perform best when they can contour the form of road surface. Tires should flatten a bit in the middle of the tread surface this gives the best fit for comfort and control. If a tire is too inflated or "hard as a rock" it will bounce off the minor imperfections on the road. This give the rider a lack of control and is very inefficient. Bouncing is counterproductive! In addition, constant bouncing will decrease the life of the headset and your frame.
In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to fill your tire with more air. Most people think that this produces a faster and sturdier bicycle. It doesn't, more air pressure will make your bicycle ride terribly. Super High Air Pressure will cause your bicycle to bounce, transmit road shock, tire the rider, cause early bike failures and makes your tires more susceptible to flats. Air pressure between 105-115 psi produces a bike that turns better and gives a much more enjoyable to drive. Try it, it will go fast.
To Tune, or not to Tune (up)
July 7, 2011 We often take our bicycles for granted. We leave them out in the cold and frigid weather during the winter seasons, and abuse them during the warm and sometimes humid summer time. Sometimes we forget that our bicycles need just as much care and maintenance as our home or even our car. And when we are so negligent we uncover bicycles that are sometimes so damaged they cannot even be restored.
It's important to remember that your bicycle needs to underground routine maintenance, or a Tune-up. Tune-ups are exactly like oiling your car. It should be done after a certain mileage, but should be considered every six months depending on how often your ride your bicycle. At a minimum, it should be done once a year.
A tune-up helps your bicycle go faster, ride easier, shift smoother, and overall deliveries an optimized riding experience. A tune-up gets all the nit and grit, and the dust and grime that's accumulated on your machine after months or years of neglect. The slightest piece of attention to your bicycle can make your riding a completely different experience. But if it's not for optimal riding that you want, then consider the extra safety and assurance you gain with a tune up. With working breaks and shifters you know that your bicycle will stop and go and you need it to. With filled tires and properly fixated wheels you don't have to worry about your bicycle betraying your navigation.
A complete tune up includes the cleaning and oiling of your chain, this allows for a smoother ride and response. The lubrication of all moving parts associated with your brakes and derailers. The inspection and modification of your brake pads - the last thing you want is your bicycle not being able to stop. The inspection of all cables and chains to make sure everything is properly situated. The alignment of your wheel, your hanger and your entire bicycle to ensure you're a straight edge. And finally checking your tires for wear and tear and your pressure to make sure there are no chances for a flat.
So make sure you give a little love and extra attention for your bicycle, because if you care for it it could last you a life time.