The idea behind mountain bike suspension is to help isolate the rider from small to medium bumps, effectively reducing rider fatigue. When a rider is less fatigued he or she can enjoy the overall mountain biking experience, maintaining higher speeds and greater handling control for longer periods of time. Suspension also improves traction by allowing [...]
#1 – A CLEAN DRIVETRAIN PROPELS A FAST BICYCLE. The drivetrain of your bicycle translates leg power into forward motion. By keeping the entire drivetrain of your bicycle clean and well lubricated you are reducing unnecessary friction, which helps to eliminate power loss. Clean it AFTER your ride, let it completely dry, and then lube [...]
If you use a hydration pack then you are already familiar with the post ride cleaning ritual that must be completed in order to keep the system free and clear of slimy black deposits. These black deposits of fungus, mold, and bacteria that eventually form if you are not diligent in keeping them at bay [...]
Hydraulic disc brakes use two metal-backed pads held in place by magnets and/or springs. Hydraulic actuated pistons inside the brake caliper push the metal-backed pads against a metal rotor that is attached to the bicycle’s hubs by either bolts (4, 5, or 6 bolt pattern) or a centerlock rotor system. Companies like Shimano, DT Swiss, [...]
In Thailand the number 9 is very auspicious for the reason that the pronunciation of the word is nearly identical to another word with connotations of ‘progress’ and ‘stepping forward.’ Is it any wonder that a bicycle mechanic must have the following 9 tools in order to complete his or her progression from beginner to [...]
So you want to be a bicycle mechanic. BicycleThailand.com is here to help you recognize just what is needed in order to complete your transformation into ‘Bicycle Repairman’. Far more than just a bottle of chain lube and a BFH is needed to get you successfully wrenching on your bicycle at home. This list of [...]
Alright people, let’s talk about your bike and how it functions. Bicycles are wonderful, magical, delightfully simple, and fantastically complex machines of perfection. A model specimen of the fantastically complex component of bicycles – derailleurs. A perfect example of the delightfully simple element of bicycles – cables. Both the fantastically complex derailleurs and the delightfully [...]
Having written about mountain bike tires last month I thought it only fitting to add my chart of road bicycle tire pressure settings here as well. Proper tire air pressure will increase the performance of any road bike. It’s the fastest, easiest, and cheapest tune-up/upgrade you can perform on your bike. Do yourself a favor [...]
Mountain bike tire pressure is THE often-overlooked factor that could make a huge difference on your next off-road ride. It’s amazing how something as simple as air pressure can affect the performance of any mountain bike, whether it is a $5,000 full-suspension rig or a $300 dollar hardtail suited for beginners. The skinny on your [...]
Bicycles are simple and reliable, but they must be properly maintained for safe operation. Here’s a simple checklist of things to consider before purchasing any secondhand bike. Frame/Fork: Paint chips are like beauty marks; they’re inevitable, and may add character to a bicycle. When purchasing a secondhand bicycle expect some dings and scratches. What you [...]
Bicycle suspension systems serve two purposes: they reduce impact to the rider from bumps and uneven surfaces, resulting in less rider fatigue, and they maintain better contact between the bicycle’s wheels and the ground, resulting in greater traction and control. The basic structure of different front forks is very similar but the position of adjustment [...]
Many mountain bikers are using tubeless tire systems nowadays. These systems have their benefits and drawbacks. So, is it a good idea to change to tubeless? It’s not possible to give one answer because the decision to change depends on several factors, least of which could be the high cost of a complete UST system. [...]
Read Part 1 of this article. April’s maintenance article is the second part to last month’s “Killing the Creak” article, in which I outlined five areas of your bicycle that should be investigated if you are experiencing creaking and/or squeaking emanating from your bike. This month I will address another five areas that could be [...]
Having just spent the better part of a week working on a particularly creaky bicycle I felt obliged to dedicate my next few articles to helping those of you brave enough to attempt the arduous task of finding and killing the creak on your own bicycle. This first of two articles will discuss five areas [...]
Chains for derailleur bicycles should always be of adequate length. A chain that is too long or too short can cause shifting problems. However, the rear derailleur cage should be long enough to take up slack as the chain is moved between the different gear combinations. This is referred to as a derailleur’s total capacity, [...]
Multiple tube failures at the valve-tube junction could be caused by a sharp edge at the rim valve hole or plastic rim strip. Before you install another new tube check the following: Remove rim strip/tape (Is it plastic? sometimes older plastic rim strips form a sharp edge capable of cutting into tubes). Use fine grade [...]
Some chains, including Shimano, use chain rivets which have wedge-like spherical ends. This creates a “mushroom” effect at the ends of the rivets, which adds to the strength of the chain side plates. When a rivet is pressed even partially out, this extra material is sheered off on the side pressed by the chain tool. [...]
Bicycle maintenance correspondent at BicycleThailand.com. Riding and tearing bikes apart for over 25 years. I learned how to put them back together again in my teens under the skilled tutelage of master mechanic and frame builder Steve Burdeshaw. Pet peeve: People asking if they can 'borrow' my tools. Quote: Free advice is now $25 - Old man Schilling. Book: The Third Policeman - Flann O'Brien
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