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What should I look for when buying tubes? I wanted to buy a spare tube to carry while riding, but it appears there is wide choice: the first website I checked carried 92 items in the tube category, another one had 69, with prices varying from 3,29€ to 16,5€ (that's 5x). What should I look for aside from size and valve...	if you buy any of the huge company like michelin or schwalbe you can be sure to have "good" tubes. Unless you're looking for a lightweight or specialty tube (latex, flat resistant, etc), make sure you've got the right size and right type and length of valve stem Most tubes out there are simply re-branded Kenda tubes, a...
attaching seatpost acessories to rear of racks? most night lights are designed to attach to the seatpost. but while carrying a bag on the rear rack that area get's blocked. some manufacturers sell cheap, awful, lights that attach to the rack (topeak) but i figure some kind of adapter would be much more useful (mostly ...	If there are only mounting holes for a reflector bracket, you can bolt an "corner bracket" to the rack and bolt the pipe to the bracket.
Bottom bracket for framebuilding This question has got me hugely excited about building a bamboo bike. I've found some instructions and tips here and here . I plan to find/buy an old bike to use as a donor. I think I'll use the head tube, forks, stem (basically the whole front end) from the donor bike to minimise ...	So, if you can fully assemble the donor bike, you just cut it in pieces, take the parts you want and assemble the bamboo bike with the same parts. One thing to think about with bonding, if you plan to use carbon fibre you will need to do some form of barrier layer to protect the steel, otherwise overtime the carbon and...
Why might a compact drivetrain be frowned upon? At the cafe stop on my local Saturday ride a few of the guys we chatting and one guy asked an other if he was riding a compact drivetrain. The other guy objected loudly and they then joked with other members of the group suggesting they were riding compacts. Why would th...	Compacts came about to alleviate the high gearing of a standard crankset's gearing without inheriting the troubles that come with a triple. and it's in our nature to frown upon new things trying to go against old "standards". Obviously, you can look at it and say to give us better climbing (easy) gears. You can compare...
Building a road bike I've seen a lot of answers here about building a fixie specifically, but I'm looking to build up a road bike. I currently have a Surly Pacer frame and fork, a Richie handlebar and stem, and that's about it. Can anyone recommend a series of videos or a website that would help me navigate some of t...	One other option if you don't want to buy a whole shop full of tools is to look around for a bike co-op. Sheldon Brown is another oft quoted resource, but it may not be that easy to find exactly what you're looking for there, or get a good overview.
Runny nose while biking Now that the weather's cold, my nose gets plugged up after about a mile and inevitably some runs down my throat and I have to pull over and spit. I feel like stopping all the time is probably confusing to the cars behind me and seek a better solution. What's the best (safest?) way to deal with t...	The main problem is that inhaled cold air causes an automatic reaction in the nasal passages to create more mucous. Avoid spitting or blowing snot on public places such as sidewalks or bike paths, etc. Fisherman's friend or some other strong pepermint candy is a common remedy against such annoyances.
What am I supposed to do when my chain falls off? It happened when I "stepped on it" (on an empty residential street). It left the chain on the road. What tool(s) and parts should I have had with me, to fix it? It was replaced (new) two months ago, since when they also had the back wheel off to replace its brake pads...	You need a chain tool and some spare links.
What is this bike tool? I've bought a saddle bag with a set of bike tools; stuff like alan keys, puncture repair kits, spanners etc. There's this one tool (well two but they screw together) that I have trouble recognising. I know for sure it's not part of the installation of the saddle bag. It also didn't come with ...	Its a Chain tool , the long bit should screw into the back (bottom side in the pic) of the other bit to provide a handle.
What harm results from riding with a stretched chain? Due to sheer laziness, my maintenance amounts to an annual trip to the LBS. After moving, my new LBS suggested that I replace my chain immediately, before it destroys the drive train. What they didn't mention was that it already had, so I needed a new cassette wit...	Failing to replace a worn chain results in more cluster wear, more chainring wear, and an increased risk of both shifting difficulty and thrown/broken chains. 1500 miles will for sure damage your sprockets permanently.
How to Sight a Chain Line I just finished building a single speed bike and I think my chain line might be a little off. Is there a tool or trick to sighting the chain line? <Q> You should be able to "sight" this fairly well. <S> Get close to the front sprocket and align your eye such that you're just looking down on...	Using a straight ruler (a small flat metal one is easiest), measure from the centerline of the rear hub to the center of the chain around the cog. If you don't notice an abnormal wearing pattern even if the alignment is not perfect, I would think that's just fine.
Should I Get the Paint Job Touched Up My wife's bike recently got scraped up and the paint got scratched down to the frame. It's an alloy frame. Should she be concerned about rust or any kind of damage? If so, do we need to get it repainted? There are about three scratches, each about half the size of a dime. <Q> Chrom...	A cheap solution to stop the metal below the scratch corroding is to coat the scratches with clear / colourless nail varnish. But for steel-framed bikes, it's a necessity.
Where is the proper location to measure the tube size? I need to replace a tube in my bike. I know there are many tire sizes. I bought 26', assuming that my bike was that size, and realized when I got home that I didn't even know where to measure from. What is the correct location to measure in order to get the correct...	Look at the tire. Use a tube that says it's for that size.
U-lock stuck on a bike Some time ago, I stuck a U-lock on my bicycle for safe keeping, on the top tube below the seat. It's annoying when riding, and I'd like a way to remove it. I've lost the key some time ago, or I would have removed it that way. Preserving the lock is optional. What would you suggest? <Q> I figured ...	Most u-locks lock on one side and connect with an L on the other, so bending the U open will release it For the tool based approaches, I would be very tempted to work out some way with a vice or two to hold the lock and bike steady, to minimize the chances of damaging the bike. I took a hammer, and pounded on the bar.
Do clipless pedals that can have toeclips exist? I know there are several clipless that can also be used as platform pedals. But i'm looking for something that can also have a toeclip. I'm dreaming with something like those: PLUS this half toe clip: Even more ideal would be if it wasn't permanently attached so i...	You also can (or at least could, at one time) purchase adapters that clip into clipless pedals and provide a toe clip mounting. for SPDs, I can find nothing.
What affordable rear brake can I get with nut/bolt rather than Allen Key? I am looking for recommendations for a rear brake for a road brake. The problem is that I can see plenty of options for the newer 'Allen Key' style but not the older 'nut/bolt' style. I also want just the rear brake rather than a set, drop is 'no...	Get any recessed-bolt front brake and use your nutted hardware with it.
What is the easiest and quickest way to pump up a tyre? I find that I need to pump up my tyres at least weekly and am looking for how to make this quick and easy. So what is the easiest and quickest method of pumping up a bike tyre? As an example, I found this device recently. (forwarded to the best part) <Q> If you...	While the question is directly about easiest/fastest way to pump up a tire, it is worth noting that all the above methods work. Definitely a floor pump (with built-in gauge) for regular at-home inflations.
Do brake cables become more elastic with time? I bought a used bike a few months ago, and I've noticed a drastic reduction in brake power. At first, I was easily able to lock-up the rear wheel while squeezing the brake lever only half-way to the handle bar. Now, I can squeeze the brake lever all the way to the handle...	Contaminants in the brake blocks also build up over time and these reduce the effectiveness of the brake, meaning you compensate by pulling the brake harder. Cables will stretch over time, but they won't become elastic. Given what you are describing, it is likely that you are looking in the wrong place for your solutio...
What's in a good all purpose city commuting winter tire? How do I determine what factors lead to a good all purpose city commuting winter tire? Does the rim matter? I'd like to not have to worry too much about looking out for and avoiding black ice, mainly because I'm not sure you can even do that reliably? I'll be r...	Not to try to dissuade you, but I personally find riding through any more than a couple inches of snow to be more hassle than it's worth. As far as 700's go, if you wanna pony up a little more cash I hands down suggest the Schwalbe Marathon Dureme. I have a pair of cheap 32c knobby cx tires by Kenda I live in South Cen...
Good wind-screen for a bicycle? I recently constructed my own windshield for my bicycle using Lexan and wood. It works great but it is hand-made thing and I might be willing to buy a premade one that is curved (mine has a 90 degree angle). But is there a good one available? <Q> Zzipper makes fairings for upright bi...	Windwrap is sold by t-cycle.com/collections/windwrap-fairings and they're made for recumbents, but
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a cycling desk? I just came across an article about a cycling desk (never knew that such a thing existed). This past year, I gave up a traditional desk for a standing desk and have been pretty happy with the results, but getting in some extra miles during the work day is v...	A standing desk will get you off your bum, but a treadmil or cycle desk will get your body moving enough to allow your brain to work better. If the trainer creates excessive vibration/noise, that would make it difficult to be productive.
Are modern forks compatible with older style bikes? I have an old 10-speed bike (likely 80's vintage) with a threaded fork. Can I replace it with a modern threadless fork with the style of stem that slides over the top of the fork and clamps on? I know I'd need to replace the stem and handlebars too and am happy to do ...	You can switch from one to the other as long as the diameter of the steering tube is the same. Not sure the reason for your need to change but,at Nashbar.com they have an adaptor that allows you to use modern threadless headsets with
Why would a bike feature a "carbon wrapped aluminum frame"? I saw a link to what appeared to be a Carbon bike on amazon . The price was extremely lower than any carbon bike I had ever seen. After reading a bit, it seems that the bike frame is really made of "carbon fibre wrapped aluminum". What advantages would wrap...	The aluminum could be thinner, providing only modest strength but serving as a mandrel to support the carbon, and the carbon would produce a stiffer bike than straight aluminum. I know other riders who believe it makes a difference (but they were using a different brand of seatpost).
How do I prevent my hydraulic brakes from getting pressed/damaged when the wheels are off? When I was buying my bike, the technician in the shop told me not to press the brakes when the wheels are off (detached), otherwise the brakes will get damaged (I don't know how). I need to detach the wheels for a few days and I...	Since bikes are usually shipped to the dealer with the wheels disassembled from the frame, the disc calipers often each have a plastic separator pressed into them that serve to prevent lock-up during shipping. If you are replacing the brake pads, it's not such an issue, but in any case it is easier to put a spacer betw...
What's the best way to fix up my used bike? I bought a used bike on craigslist, for cheap, and while I wasn't expecting it to be great the brakes and changing gears don't work perfectly. The front brakes are very tight and the back ones are pretty loose... I can stop and everything but just would rather have a better ...	It may be that your brakes and gears are simply out of adjustment. If there's much wrong with the bike I'd say it'd be cheaper to buy a new bike where you know that all the parts are at least compatible and in good condition. If the surface of the pads look at all glazed, rough them up with a course grit sandpaper. Aft...
Is it worth switching from regular "rim brakes" to the new disk brakes? I have an old Haro mountain bike I love. One feature request I have for a new bike is disk brakes. Is it possible to install disk brakes on an old bike? Is it worth it? <Q> If your Haro does have disc brake mount tabs, then you can install them bu...	It isn't wise to install disc brakes on a frame and fork that weren't designed to withstand the unique forces that disc brakes generate, and you'll just damage your bike in the process.
What's the easiest way to insert a star nut into a steerer tube? I need to install one of those star-fangled nuts, but I don't do this often enough to warrant buying a special tool for it. I usually manage to hammer the thing in eventually but in the past it has taken quite a while to get it in straight and once I eve...	But, as also mentioned, threading the bolt into the star nut and tapping in carefully can work.
New chain is pre-lubricated, should I clean it before use? My new chain is totally coated in lube. I would never ride a bike with a chain like this normally. All that goop is just going to collect flotsam from the road and wear out the chain. Should I clean this coating off the new chain too? <Q> The coating is genera...	Regardless of brand, if the new chain feels overly tacky you can use your favorite lube and over-apply it to the chain then give it a thorough wipe down to remove the excess. I would recommend leaving the manufacturers grease in place Let it collect dirt first.
How to prevent my bike from tipping over when using just one pannier? I often carry gear in a pannier on my bike rack, as in the photo below (not my bike, but same pannier design. My actual bike frame is very different; I'll upload my own picture tomrrow): I have two panniers, but typically only use one because I usu...	Another idea is that if you put the pannier on the opposite side to the kickstand, when the bike is tilted towards the stand, the weight will be closer to centered and the bike should be less likely to tip. Even if I did leave it on the bike that wouldn't tip the bike: because the bike has no kick-stand, I park it lock...
I feel long rides exclusively in my quads, should my calf muscles be doing more work? I notice a lot of cyclists with massive sculpted calf muscles, especially the kind that clearly ride as a life-style without worrying about minimizing body weight. I've switched cities, and gone from a 7km round-trip commute to 25km ...	It could be due to your bike fit, but there's a lot of power in your quads, and if you will note a lot of pros (very noticeable track) Just keep in mind that this isn't an exact science, and comfort may override some recommendations. Something that you can evaluate yourself is the smoothness of your cadence. In distanc...
How to chose a right sized mountain (or all-terrain) bike for a kid? Will a bike with 11" frame and 20" wheels be suitable for 120 cm high child?Is there general recommendation about what should I pay attention to, when choosing a bike for a kid? Will Kona Shred 2-0 or Ghost Powerkid 20" fit the requirements? <Q> ...	If this is a "starter" bike then it's best if it's possible to lower the seat enough that the child can sit on the seat and with his/her toes balance the bike and push it along. The first thing to look at is "standover height".
Do 29 inch wheels make a difference? Possible Duplicate: 29" wheels - what advantage do they provide over smaller wheels? Do 29 inch wheels make a difference off road? They certainly cost more. <Q> Since I switched to my 29-er in september, I can keep up with the fastest bikers in my "team". <S> Before that I just...	Personally I think they are another gimick standard, their lower rolling resistance may outweigh the negatives for mild off-road XC, but for anything else stick to 26". Where you are going to notice the difference is in clearance of "obstacles" because of the bigger diameter of the wheel objects you go over seem smalle...
Helmets for big heads This question was posted on the excellent BikeHacks website: I don't have a hack, but a question. My head measures 66cm. I can't find a helmet that fits. Even ones that go to 66cm are too small. I've considered looking into motorcycle helmets. Any advice? I'll post a link to this question u...	If you can find a motorcycle helmet that fits, that should provide as much or more protection as a bicycle helmet. I've had good luck with the "Specialized Max" line even though the official sizing printed on it is smaller than my hat size.
Ice tires for winter commuting on non-icy roads? Can a tire like the Schwalbe Marathon Winter be used for winter-long commuting (40 km/day) on roads which are mostly or usually not icy? I might want the studs occasionally (and lower the air pressure to get them), but not on most days. This is Toronto where it's sub...	It boils down to this: if you use your bike when the roads are icy, get them. In my experience, studded tires aren't that great
What causes chain suck? Specifically when changing gears from middle chain ring to smallest, the chain will sometimes get 'sucked' up between the inner chainring and chain stay. It seems to happen more often in muddy conditions. I keep my drive train clean and lube my chain often. I bought the bike new and maybe 1200-...	A very dry chain (needing lubrication): Worn chainring teeth: A worn, stretched or damaged chain: Burrs on the teeth of new chainwheels, mismatched wear: (Drivetrain) maintenance is something you should get in the habit of doing if you want to get maximum mileage and enjoyment out of your bike in general, especially if...
Are drop bars suitable for winter commuting? I've been told by somewhat knowledgable people that drop bars aren't suitable for winter cycling in snow and ice. Is there any validity to this? If so, why, and which style of handle bar would be preferable? <Q> Drop bars in of themselves are fine for winter riding. <S> Howe...	One caveat I will make is that bikes that traditionally have drop handlebars aren't viewed as being optimal winter bikes due to typically having thinner road-style tires. Handlebar Width: Drop bars tend to be narrower than flat bars.
Looking for coat: shell front, fleece back Looking for a good fall/winter/spring coat. In my imagination it is: a hard raincoat type shell on the front of the jacket to block wind and fleece on the back to make it extremely breathable. Looking to use it in Ottawa, Ontario in temperatures between +5C to -10C (although ...	I believe that, in Canada, MEC carries Patagonia clothing. Wool on the back and the front is wind/rain resistant.
Does anybody manufacture extra-wide (3E/4E or EEE/EEEE ) wide road or mountain biking shoes? I have mutant-wide feet and it's generally impossible to find comfortable shoes for any occasion. For the most part my only options in life are New Balance. I'm cycling a lot lately and would like to take advantage of cleats. S...	I found a cheap pair of shoes from Specialized that are awesome for wide feet.
How to calculate the capacity of a rear derailleur It's easy to calculate what capacity of a rear derailleur will be needed based on the size of the big and small chainring and the big and small cog. What about the converse question, how to calculate the capacity of a derailleur? I was comparing some short-cage rear d...	Finding a derailleur to fit your chainrings/cogs based on just the chainrings/cogs is going to be a lot easier than finding chainrings based on looking at your derailleur.
What kind of tire should I purchase for use on a bike trainer? I am in the process of acquiring a bike trainer (likely CycleOps Fluid 2 ) for winter conditioning. Most of the reviews and other information I have read suggestion that a regular road tire will be damaged or quickly worn out on a trainer. What type of t...	I've found that a relatively inexpensive road tire provides a better adhesion to the roller for a more responsive training session for sprints. I use worn road tires that I've taken off my road bike.
Life expectancy of a rim? I've erroneously bought a rim (hoping my technical English is right: the part of the wheel between the spokes and the tire). While I have no immediate use for it, shipping it back to the seller for refund would be a waste of shipping costs if I would need a new rim in the foreseeable future. I...	You can literally wear-away the rim surface with your brakes until the rim is too weak.
Storing bicycle helmets...will temperature affect the performance of the helmet? I got into a discussion at home about where to best store our bicycle helmets. We store our bikes in the garage (a standalone, not attached to our apartment). So, logically and aesthetically my wife wants to store it in the garage.My argum...	High temps could be a problem, but again foam (very similar to the stuff used in helmets) is used to insulate homes, where attic temps may reach 150F or so, and it's used to insulate water heaters that run at 180F.
What does a flashing yellow arrow traffic signal mean? While bike commuting in an urban setting, I've started noticing that some intersections have flashing yellow turn signals during part of the light cycle. What does this mean? If I am on my bike in the turn lane and a flashing arrow appears, can I proceed with the t...	For left turning drivers, the flashing yellow arrow means the same thing as a circular green light: Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
How far do I “pull over” in a bike lane? If I am riding down a marked bike lane on a road which is adjacent to the curb, and I need to stop for a very short time (e.g. to adjust something, turn on lights, or drink some water), how far should I get off the road? That is: As a car driver, if I had to stop I would move o...	If there is bicycle traffic, then it might be worthwhile to move completely out of the bike lane to avoid hindering other cyclists. Of course, to a degree it depends on how long you will be stopped.
Can I use a hybrid bike tire on my mountain bike? I got a Merida Matts 20 D frame size 18. I want to use a hybrid bike tire. Can I? The current tire is 26*2.1 Do I also need to change the rim? <Q> So in your case you need a tire labeled 26, with a width of roughly 1.3 to 2.8. <S> But likely if you go much wider th...	So long as the tire diameter (rim size, as stamped on the side of the tire) is the same, and the width is no more than about 30% wider or narrower than the original, and so long as the tire doesn't create interference problems with the frame or brakes, it should be fine.
Air compressor to fill up to 60 PSI I am looking for an air compressor and wish to get one which is not under or over powered. I am looking at one in a catalogue which has the following attributes: 40 Litres/min free air delivery1hp motorDirect drive design (what ever that means)8 Litre tank capacity I wish to fill ...	I really would advise you out of tankless compressors meant for paint jobs or aerograph use, they usually are not powerfull enough. A good bike pump will also require less maintenance.
How do you spot the left side pedal on egg beater pedals? I've just got a new set of crank brothers egg beater pedals and I can't tell which pedal is for the left side, and which is for the right just from looking at them. Is there an obvious way to tell without simply trying to screw them in? Update: There isn't an ...	Whichever one has reverse threads is the left pedal.
Did any manufacturer ever try using more, but lighter spokes to minimize weight? Wheels generally used to have more spokes. As technology improved and markets changed, manufacturers have taken to making wheels with fewer (and often heavier spokes). I've been told this comes at the expense of having a slightly heavier...	I don't have the math to prove it, but I suspect the balance point between how thin the spokes would need to be to reduce the weight enough to offset the additional weight of more spokes, and the tensile strength those spokes would require to maintain the strength of the wheel without breaking would prevent any weight ...
How does one revitalize chrome lugging without harming the finish of the paint? I have an older bike that's in the middle of being rebuilt and I need to take care of the chrome. The paint is still on the bike so I need to be careful of any chemical or physical processes that may discolor or destroy the finish. How ca...	Although I'm sure you could find a chrome-specific polish, you could try using polish for steel cookware (from the hardware store), baking soda and a damp cloth, or even tooth paste. In the UK I've had success with Brasso , a cloth and lots and lots of elbow grease.
Why not place the cleats further back on the foot? I've found a number of articles saying there is no advantage in having the cleat under the ball of your foot as opposed to further back towards the arch. The reasoning is that the calf muscle is not suited for endurance efforts and shouldn't be overused while cyc...	The ball of your foot can take hours of running, biking and other activity with high pressure. I think this depends on type of ride, and what's the riders style. For a downhill, placing your feet at the back will help you shift you weight towards back, may be helpful at some slopes.
Rear red light with seat bag My bike has this red reflective light right below the seat (I don't know its name), and I'm thinking of buying a seat bag such as this one . Won't the light be covered? Isn't this potentially dangerous? How does one fix it normally? <Q> The reflective brand name tab on the rear of that sea...	If it's only reflective you have currently, then you might want to buy a separate battery operated active light, and place it below the bag on the stem.
How helpful are neon/led lights on the rims, while riding at night? Recently I saw few cyclists at night with blue neon lights attached to the spokes on their rims. They just kept one each at the back, so it wasn't that effective. But having at least 2 of such lights (both front and back) can make a rider very visibl...	This mainly depends on how bright the lights are. I find that at night, cars that are joining the road perpendicular to my direction of travel tend to notice me more because my front and back lights don't give much light sideways. I use a single red light on my rear spokes.
Full suspension or hardtail for offroad in South Wales I mountain bike in the hills of South Wales. I am due a new bike and have been riding a 17kg full sus for a few years now. I mostly ride 15-20 miles every week (hopefully more when the summer arrives) of moderatley technical terrain and the occasional trail center ...	The hardtail will be substantially lighter than a comparably priced full-suspension bike.
What's the beefiest front shock (26"), avail in quick release, with travel of 100-125mm (no more)? Details: I mostly enjoy XC and all mountain riding. However, I also from time to time, will go out with friends on some much more intense downhill trails. I'm also about 240 pounds, give or take. So, while I really ...	Honestly though, Fox makes some nice forks. Rockshox's pike comes with a 20mm maxle and stiffens the forks up no end.
Is it possible/sensible to add a suspension fork to an old mountain bike? I have a ~1993 Giant mountain bike. It's not great, but I am a very new and casual rider. The bike has a solid fork and it makes for the predictable rough trail ride. The trails are generally fairly modest (I live in North Texas, a 100' chan...	Check with your local bike shop for used bikes or craigs list if you keep it local so you can see before you buy. An alternative might be to install the biggest 26 inch tires you can fit in your frame and lower the tire pressure to get more shock absorbtion. One of the main problems with converting an old bike is the w...
Dealing with very juddery cantilever brakes I'm a commuter with a ~13m daily round-trip. I've been riding this on an MTB for 8 years, but I'm looking to upgrade. I recently tried out a 2012 model Specialized Tricross; this having been recommended as a road bike that retains the commuter niceties (rack/mudguard mounts,...	A simple solution from Specialized itself to your problem could be the installation of a Tricross Fork Brake Hanger.
How can I make a glow bike? How I can make my bicycle glow? As seen in this Blackberry commercial (with screen capture image below). <Q> Paint it with fluorescent paint and then illuminate with ultraviolet lights (and white LEDs serve this purpose fairly well). <S> There are also glow strips/panels sold mostly to (...	[Odds are, to achieve this special effect for the commercial, the bike was painted with fluorescent paint and then illuminated for several minutes with separate UV lights.
Where can I find statistics on the growth of US & worldwide bicycle use and business? I'm having trouble finding up-to-date information on the growth of cycling in the US and across the globe. How rapidly is the cycling industry growing? In what country is cycling growing fastest? Is the industry growing in lock-step w...	US Census Commuting Data , but it looks like you'll have to dig down into the more raw data to get what you want, since the easy to find report only has the latest census and puts bicycling in an "other" bin.
What type of bike is appropiate for my situation? First off, sorry for being unable to phrase my question more precisely. Currently, I ride a 26" hardtail mountain/trail bike to and from work/university (around 7km each way). Surely, this is not the ideal bike, but I do love the ruggedness (occasionally jumping a fligh...	Fixed gear bikes will make you pedal smoother but a disciplined rider of any bike can get the same benefits using cadence drills without the added danger of getting bucked by pedals moving faster than you can. If you want a fixie because they're trendy, consider buying a used one from a recovering hipster. If you are c...
What tools are most important on an all-in-one bike tool for a commuter? My commute is about 25km/day. I have a cheapish hybrid bike with Shimano gears, v-brakes and SPD pedals. I carry a small hand pump and spare tube. What do I need in a bike tool/ multitool or other spares? <Q> Probably means a few sizes of Alle...	Tire levers Appropriate wrenches to tighten loose bolts, adjust brakes, etc.
How to pull a carbon seatpost out of a carbon frame? How do I pull out a carbon seatpost on a carbon frame?It seems so hard for me...Do I need a special tool, or just ask help from a local bike shop? done with the seatpost.I made the frame and fork reversed hold the bottom bracket with my tripod, install a saddle on ...	For Aero seatposts, smack the saddle nose solidly sideways with your hand, you should hear a loud crack, this is the surface tension breaking.
What rear brake should I get for a Surly Steamroller? I recently acquired a Surly Steamroller (fixed gear bike). I want to ride is as a single speed for everyday use. I changed out the rear wheel and got one with a flip-flop hub. I'd also like to add a rear brake but I'm not sure what will work. The Surly website state...	Any standard reach front brake should work fine. If you want to have both brakes, then use the full length housing and zip ties as others have mentioned.
How to remove broken bolt in Chain Tug? It is now stuck very hard because I used apparently too much force to tighten it, how would you take that out? The bolt is in soft aluminium frame so it can be quite tricky thing to do. Some bolt removal tool? Related question here with the chain-tug -suggestion. <Q> Unless I'...	Bolt cutter or hack saw to the axle between the frame and the hub (if you can make room, loosening the other side should help. A heating implement to expand the metal on the tensioner may open up the hole.
Alternate mount for Kryptonite U-Lock? My wife's bike doesn't have room on the upright to mount the Krytonite U-Lock she was given as a gift. The plastic mounting bracket sticks out way too far. She has a small framed Specialized Vita. Is there some alternate bracket that can be purchased that would allow it to be mo...	So, my first impulse would be to check the Kryptonite site or inquire at a local bike shop that carries the Kryptonite product line. If the bike in question has a rack, you can generally loop bungee cord around it to make u-lock holder that is fast to use and keeps to lock secure in place.
Carbon Seatpost / Frame in Repair Stand I've got a Park PCS-10 repair stand, and just acquired my first carbon bike. Is there anything I should know about clamping either the frame or seatpost in the stand? Being a few years old, the frame and seatpost are perfectly round and non-aero. Is it safe to clamp them in th...	However, they said the safest thing to do would be to keep an aluminum seatpost around and swap it out whenever I want to use the repair stand. If you have a carbon seat post you need to be carefull that you do not clamp it too tight because the usual advice is that clamping forces are the most likly to cause damage to...
Where can I buy lugs for a classic roadster frame geometry? The title says it all. I want to build my own frame and need lugs that will fit the roadster (e.g. Raleigh Tourist) geometry. <Q> No Roadster lugs are available for the independent or small shop. <S> That is why I had to make them. <S> Roadster lugs are made...	You might look into TIG-welded custom lugs, such as those made by ANT bikes or by Mark Nobilette as described in Bicycle Quarterly vol. I think you might be out of luck for anything commercially produced. The best place I've found is Henry James Bicycle supply .
Will it cause problems if I use components from different series? If I set up a bike with: 10-speed tiagra shifters 10-speed dura ace read derailleur 9-speed 105 front derailleur Will it cause problems if I use components from different series? (All of these are from within the past year or two.) <Q> Your best pe...	Just make sure the limit screws are set up correctly so the chain does not fall off. You will notice that no 9 speed part is listed as compatible with any 10 speed part, but that even the new 4600 Tiagra 10-speed is listed as compatible with all 10 speed components. I'm not to sure about your situation because Dura-ace...
Adivce on what to do next with crunching / slipping gears About two weeks ago I took my bike to the local bike shop to get serviced. It was previously slipping gears under load and at the end I couldn't use the lowest gear going up hill it would just slip constantly. I mentioned the crunching / slipping to the guy at ...	The gears might be mismatched, for example, the shifter might show one gear number and the actual gear is other, because the cable is much shorter or much longer, or the adjusting screw was overturned and "shifted" the whole system one whole gear up or down; Much more odd stuff would be: incompatible chain-and-sprocket...
How to avoid knee pain when cycling I've noticed some knee pain arising recently from cycling. a throbbing around and below the kneecap, while I sit at my desk during work. To try and counteract this I've been increasing the height of my seat. This has gotten to the point where my hips slightly rock during cycling. I ...	Cycling in too high a gear, particularly uphill is a pretty good way to hurt your knees, so you may want to get a bike with multiple gears. At last, seeing a doctor (preferrably specialized in sports medicine) and doing some physical therapy is always something to consider. Don't ride a fixie. Also, have your bike fit ...
Where can I find a 130 bcd single speed chainring with 58 or 60 teeth? Where can I find a 130 bcd single speed chainring with 58 or 60 teeth? I am attempting to setup a goldsprints setup using a very large front ring and a small rear freewheel. <Q> I've been looking for the same thing for a while. <S> Rotor makes a r...	If you prefer to buy locally and immediately, I'd suggest looking for a local shop that specializes in recumbents or trikes.
Do stickers or paint compromise a helmet? Would sticking stickers on a helmet or painting them etc make a helmet less useful in a crash? Not knowing the science of helmets but perhaps stickers in the wrong place might make it not behave how the manufacturer intended during a crash (not breaking apart correctly)? <Q> I ...	While helmets do sometimes break apart in a crash, that's not a primary design requirement for them to keep your head protected. Polystyrene (aka Styrofoam) and certain other plastics can be damaged by the solvents used in paints, like some spray paints.
Suggestions for budget mountain bike with opportunities for upgrade I live in Bulgaria and I am looking for suggestions for budget mountain bike with opportunities for upgrade, budget 400-500$ . I am planning to travel from home to work (dayly) and to take part in competitions like 100 km (about 63 miles) mountain ...	You might also want to consider a used bike - you'll be able to get more for your money and if / when stuff wears out you can upgrade it as you go.
After an accident, what next? Cycling home in the dark a car pulled across me to enter a super market car park. Apparently the car that let him cross didn't remove their full beam so he didn't see me in the cycle lane and I hit the side of him. Apart from the initial shock I'm basically OK. Hip & shoulder feels a litt...	However, do not sign any paperwork the insurance company asks you to (which may limit their liability or waive some of your rights) and inform them that you're having a bicycle shop prepare a quote for damages. I'd also advise going to the doctor and getting looked over just in case you do have some more serious injuri...
Fat or Skinny Tires for Winter Riding? Fat or Skinny? I think the arguments are as follows: Fat: You can float on top of the snow and you don-t have to go through it. You have a larger contact patch with the ground. Skinny: Will find it's way through the snow to find some pavement to grab onto. Studded: Works gre...	I haven't had as many chances to test this year, but studded tires work great on ice.
Flickering light, Lumotec IQ Fly Senso Plus with SON hub-generator Halfway through my third winter my Lumotec IQ Fly Senso Plus (powered by a SON hub-generator) headlight has suddenly started fluctuating, after I returned from Christmas holidays. While riding in the dark (and darkness lasts 20/24 hours here this time o...	Since it is an halogen light (correct me if I'm wrong), there is a socket inside, with a spring or something, where you "screw" the lamp. A simple cleaning would do it, the lamp connections are always quite similar. This makes me think that the lamp was somehow damaged by winter temps.
Is a tri frame suitable for track racing? I'm considering getting a fairly cheap bike built up for track racing at my local club, reusing my old carbon tubular road wheels. However, most track frames have a narrower hub spacing (120mm) versus road frames (130mm). My options seem to be at present to stretch an old ste...	Track frames are purpose-built for racing at a velodrome.
Cyclometer interference from car detection loops? I've noticed several times lately when stopping at an intersection with a car detection loop that my wireless cyclometer (an Atom 4.0) exhibits some strange behavior. It continues to think I'm moving (as indicated by a triangle icon), the distance increases (by a tenth ...	There are several intersections where I can reliably make this happen by stopping over the loops - and many more where it never happens - so it seems to have to do with the specifics of the loop, too. Could be interfering with the wireless radio (which I suspect is ANT, a sort of poor-man's Bluetooth), or it could be t...
is it worth to change slx 2011 rear derailleur for xtr 2009? I bought a bicycle last summer a Specialized camber comp and it mounts Shimano SLX as rear derailleur. My intention is to change it for a xtr derailleur (from 2009) which is mounted in a bicycle I barely use, the derailleur is as new. do you think is worth t...	If you don't have all of the XTR components, you will gain only a very small performance difference.
Is my interval training routine effective for mountain bike training? During these winter months I am currently attending the gym 3 times a week. On each of the days I start my training on an exercise bike with the following: 5 minute warm up 30 minutes, 1 minute hard, 1 minute recovery 5 minute warm down I am us...	I would try to look at the requirements of your specific events and target those, also try to do longer sessions on the trail to build the endurance needed to complete this events. However, it's counterproductive to do interval training and weight training both in one session.
"Proper" cycling posture on a road bike with drop bars? Sometimes I feel a little pain in my lower back after cycling (nothing too long, mainly cycling around London for general commuting...5-10Km). It could be due to a number of reasons (I have a bad back anyway), but I would like to eliminate bad cycling posture as a...	Putting a different sized stem on your bike could fix the problem. If you're a real aggressive rider (and young and limber) then a lower bar position may be for you, but if you're somewhat more casual there's nothing wrong with raising the bar (so to speak). Finally, perhaps your back hurts when you ride, but it "is be...
Is there any functional point of using alloy jockey wheels? Jockey wheels seem like the most pointless thing to upgrade on a bike. I can see swapping out the usual grey ceramic jockey wheels for an anodized alloy one to match the look of the rest of the bike, but I can't see any possible performance related reason to d...	The material itself is not so important, I think, but for sure the alloy jockeys last longer than plastic ones. Besides eliminating lateral play and so improving shifting precision (in my perception), they also decrease rolling resistance and improve drivetrain efficiency. I have noticed that after cleaning they still ...
how do I paint a bicycle chain? I've seen chains with so many colours, white, red, you name it. I would like to give it a try (this paint job is intended for visual styling of the bike, nothing related to protecting it), but I have no clue on how to do it. I think there must be a way to paint it without "glueing" the...	Take chain apart Clean links thoroughly Mask any metal to metal contact points on links Use airbrush or other spray paint on exposed portions. I think @freiheit already said it: paint the outside of the outer links!
If you keep a bike inside for months in a row, do you have to check it? For example, if you keep it in a garage or in basement, I am thinking the tires might lose air and then the wheel will pressure down the tire. So do you need to check the bike once in awhile and inflate it? <Q> I'm gonna sorta disagree with Zen on ...	If you're talking months vs years, and the bike was stored inside in a location where condensation would not have occurred (eg, not in a cold corner of a basement in a humid climate), and the bike was in good condition when stored, then all you need to do is air up the tires and wipe the dust off. The tires will lose p...
What causes my chain to derail at the rear when I accelerate? I recently bought a beat-up old mountain bike for commuting. I've tried to clean and adjust the derailleurs and everything seems to work well enough in my garage. But when I put heavy weight on the pedals (say, starting across an intersection after a stop li...	A worn cassette will have teeth that have become pointier. The solution for this is either create or use a different cable routing (Some frames may have alternate cable routing) or simply use a single casing from the shifter to the derailleur.
Pain on the sides of my feet I've been having pain on the sides of my feet (outside about midway back on the foot(. I was wearing a pair of Sidi's size 43. Went to a Specialized 44. Still have the pain, so I'm thinking it's something else, like how I have the cleats bolted on the shoes or even the pedals. How do I diag...	The other possibility is that the shoe doesn't fit you quite right.
How to match a paint color? Do you know how to match a color on the frame ?I want to buy a paint from a tool shop but I'm not sure if it's match with the frame color.I'm going to use the paint for a touch up. Thanks for the info. <Q> If it's a modern bike of a decent manufacturer you could always drop them an email, ...	The same way you would for any paint: find a swatch that matches it, or chip a bit off the bike, and then take it to a paint store and ask them to match it for you.
Why is there a distinction between friction and indexed derailleurs? I've seen people make a distinction between a derailleur being for friction or indexed. Is this distinction somehow functional? I can't see how it could be, because every derailleur I've ever seen just takes a movement in the cable and translates it ...	Besides that, it would be theoretically possible to use a non-indexed derailer with a given indexed shifter, but only if they happen to have the same cable-displacement-to-lateral-displacement ratio.
Any thoughts on spoke lights? I was considering getting some spoke lights to increase visibility at night, and although there are a number of options they all seems to have a relatively low battery life, or get bad reviews. Here are some examples: http://www.niteize.com/products/spokelit http://www.monkeylectric.com...	When you are riding around in the winter, one of the times you need to be seen the most, and you have frozen fingers turning lights on and off can be quite painful. Personally: I don't like anything on my wheels, particularly things that clamp onto the spokes. Reelight makes magnetically powered lights that attach at t...
Garmin Heart Rate Monitor Not Reporting Accurate HR Anymore With my first Garmin Edge 305, I got the cadence and heart rate accessories. Cadence is still humming along, but the heart rate monitor has been not accurately reporting heart rate over the past couple months. Two battery changes and various attempts to wet ...	Given the battery changes, if you haven't washed the strap, try doing that, first with soap and water, then wipe with isopropyl alcohol.
Whats the easiest way to clean my bike? Simple question, however, I am used to cleaning my bike at my parents house, I use some eco bike spray stuff leave it for a little then rub and hose down (I normally get it quite dirty riding down dirt tracks in West Sussex, UK). I am now at University and our flat has no access...	Take the chain apart from the bike, and clean it shaking inside a plastic container with a small amount of your preferred degreaser or solvent, replacing the solvent a few times untill it comes out clean. Dish detergent might be fine. Another option is to send it to the bike shop and spend a little, but think about the...
Why does my gear slip when going uphill / standing? I have a road bike that I use to commute ~6 miles to work every day. Some of the portions of the ride are at a steep incline, and I've noticed that when I get up to stand on some of these hills, my gear slips. I'm not sure if "gear slips" is the right term, but ba...	You have friction shifter, and the shifter is slowly slipping down, so that when you pedal hard it actually shifts.
Can a fixed gear sprocket be changed without tools? I do not have a chain whip or sprocket ring tool. Is it possible to change the rear sprocket without these tools? <Q> For the lockring a hammer and screwdriver works sometimes, but you end up damaging everything involved except the hammer, sometimes to the point that ...	There is indeed an "ingenious technique" I've successfully used to screw the sprocket without using any chainwhip : use your chain !
What is a good roof-rack configuration for optimal gas mileage? I have a standard 2 bar roof rack (such as Yakima or Thule) with interchangeable and move-able bike / ski racks. I often carry 2 bicycles. Which will give me the best (least worse) gas mileage on my car: Both bikes as close together as possible, or on op...	Do some experimenting with position, but the biggest difference will be by dropping your speed. I would not use any type of tarp or cover this would increase the surface area and increase drag and the flapping tarp will damage the paint.
Chain "vibrates" on higher gears My freewheel that I have installed myself only 1.5 years ago has totally worn out by the moment and so I just had it replaced along with a chain at the workshop. I'm still concerned though about the previous one's extremely short lifespan and thus suspicious about my current setup as we...	Front derailleur needed adjustment to stop chain rubbing. A rear cluster will last roughly 5000mi/8000km under normal use but will wear faster if a worn chain is being used. In your case I would play with the H screw first and foremost, especially if there is a significant and sudden increase in feedback between 6th an...
Should I tune up or replace bike? This question is about the economics of owning and maintaining a bike. I bought a brand new mountain bike for $250 some months ago. I ride about 30 miles a week on paved trails for occasional exercising. The cost of a yearly tune up in my area is about $80. Should I forgo the tune u...	And, if you ride for fitness (or even SPECIALLY so), your health (or lack thereof) due to bicycling itself in the first place, might be worth way more than the elusive cost savings of buying and spending "cheap". $80 sounds a lot for a tune-up, unless they are trueing your wheels (in which case you're paying for the me...
How do I correctly set the angle of my drop bars Are there any tricks to setting the correct angle for the drop bars on my road bike, when adjusting my handlebars in the stem? Is it just a matter of personal preference or is there a general consensus on what angle you should use? <Q> I will post my "non-specialist" w...	The brake levers will preferably be mounted such that the end of the brake lever is even with the bottom of the bar. After tightening everything in position, go out for a short ride "in the field", perhaps in light traffic, or in the road (a rolling terrain with crossings would be perfect), and perform some final adjus...
How important is it to face the head tube? I have a frame that I've built up and I'm having trouble getting the tension perfect on the headset, which is not usually something I have trouble with. A friend of mine who is much more knowledgeable than I about these things suggested that I should look into facing the head ...	Sometimes it's just a matter of getting down to bare metal, sometimes the tolerances are indeed a little off and the surfaces of the top and bottom of the headtube aren't perfectly parallel. For most modern, quality frames it is not necessary, unless you have a problem in which case it might be worth a try.
Is this a good source of food for 25-50 mile ride? I like to mix almonds, walnuts, raisins, cashews and dried blueberries together have them as a snack throughout the day. I've never tried this food source on a 25-50 mile ride. I'd like some thoughts from knowledgeable people on how good this would be to eat during a r...	Really, any source of food is fine for a 25–50 mile ride. I pack bananas as my cycling food of choice.
Getting a dura ace 7800 derailleur to work with 10 speeds I have a bike set up with a dura ace 7800 derailleur, specifically listed as a 9 or 10 speed model. I am interested in getting it working in the 10-speed configuration. Two things: I remember reading somewhere that you have to rout the cable a certain way to g...	If you loosen the bolt, re-orient the clamp, and tighten again, it should work on your 10 speed system without any problems.
What type of bicycle rack should I buy for my car? I have been biking for a while now but mostly for my commute to work. Now, I am interested in doing longer rides and trails as summer is almost there :). I need a bike rack for my car, which is a sedan (Toyota Corolla). I have a road bike, and a mountain bike, so I mig...	Hitch racks dont goober up your paint like a roof rack can and like a trunk mount almost certainly will It's easier to get bikes on/off a hitch rack than an equivalent roof rack, especially if you're short or your car is tall or both.
Why do my disc brakes squeal when wet? Picture the scene... It's just been raining and you are getting ready to commute home after work, you cycle out on to the tarmac, the scent of fresh rain on hot tarmac fills your nostrils, you notice a pedestrian push the button on the traffic lights up ahead, the lights turn red ...	Keep the pads clean and you'll brake much more quietly (unless your skidding and trying to be loud). Its most likely oil or other grimy substance built up on the pads. I guess that the difference is to do with the frame stiffness and resonant modes being quite different front and back.

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