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 [...]
There are plenty of reasons why a bicycle chain may break; poor gear change, poor maintenance or just poor bad luck. With the right tools and knowledge it is possible to quickly fix the chain and be on your way. Most importantly, you need a chain tool. If your multi tool does not have one, [...]
Whenever you’re out on your bike there’s always the chance that something can break or come loose. Do you have the right kit to get you home? Most riders carry a pump, a tire lever or two and a tube, but what if… Your chain breaks? Your handlebars come loose? Your saddle falls off the [...]
Only the luckiest cyclist will go their entire cycle career without ever getting a puncture. The first puncture is something they live in fear of; will it happen during their morning commute? the middle of a race? or just mid Sunday ride? Having the knowledge of how to repair a puncture will mean you no [...]
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. [...]
This article will assist new cyclists with identifying the major parts of a bicycle. In addition it will make familiar the seemingly difficult labeling system associated with the different tube sections of a bicycle frame. This article has been created to help new cyclists more clearly communicate a problem to their local bike shop and/or [...]
