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 [...]
Over the past weekend I managed to piece together a fairly decent bicycle shop workbench for a very good friend of mine. I thought I would take the opportunity to share some of the advice that I’ve received and learned over the years about building such a workbench. To start off, you’ll need to consider [...]
#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 [...]
Maintaining the different parts of your bike is one way to ensure that it remains in good condition for a long time. If one part of your bicycle is in bad shape, you will not enjoy your overall cycling experience in Thailand. It is therefore important to give proper care to each unique part of [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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