Learning Bike Repair

[cycloholichica]

For all those who are experienced at bike repair, what suggestions can you give on how to learn this skill and would you be willing to share your knowledge? I know the basics (adjusting cable tensions for shifters and brakes and patching tubes) but would like to learn more about bike maintenance.

I've read stuff online by Sheldon Brown (may he rest in peace). Great resource and I feel that it is important to learn by doing. But last time I messed around with my bike (trying to troubleshoot a shifter issue on my own), I ended up doing more damage than good. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

[AlanS]

I have been doing all my own bike work for years...building from frame up (not the frame...only Frank Peckham does that)...I learned by watching and trying. If you have a problem, ask one of us to walk you through the repair/ tune up...we (us helpful riding companions) will be more that happy to show you the basics.

[TONEB]

me on the other hand had a shifting problem, I messed around with the cables and got it to work....I got lucky that time LOL

[Charlie]

For all those who are experienced at bike repair, what suggestions can you give on how to learn this skill and would you be willing to share your knowledge? I know the basics (adjusting cable tensions for shifters and brakes and patching tubes) but would like to learn more about bike maintenance.

I've read stuff online by Sheldon Brown (may he rest in peace). Great resource and I feel that it is important to learn by doing. But last time I messed around with my bike (trying to troubleshoot a shifter issue on my own), I ended up doing more damage than good. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Several people have told me that Brands Cycle and Fitness gives free repair classes or I could lend you my Blue Book on bicycle repair next time I see you. I know you have to be carefull, sometimes the problem with shifters can be caused by something entirly different such as a loose chain or something wrong with one of the derailers.

[cycloholichica]

That's so sweet of you, Charlie. Thanks for the offer. I wish I could be an apprentice at a bike shop. That way I could play around and the experienced mechanic can "undo" any my accidental damage. haha.

[Charlie]

To further elaborate on the above posting I found out that Brands has a basic 101: intro class on May 14,2008 at 7:00 PM- 8:ooPM and an advanced 201 class May 28,2008 at 7:00 - 8:00PM. Both are free and take place in the store and can be contacted at 516-781-6100

[Tina]

I took both of the bike repair classes at Brands. Although they were helpful, I would still like more hands-on instruction and practice. If you come across any repair classes etc. let me know. If you don't practice on a regular basis, you kind of lose it.

[cycloholichica]

I took both of the bike repair classes at Brands. Although they were helpful, I would still like more hands-on instruction and practice. If you come across any repair classes etc. let me know. If you don't practice on a regular basis, you kind of lose it.

Agreed. This is why it is good to take apart the whole shebang every now and then.

Seriously, how can one become an apprentice? This student is *so* ready! Where is my teacher???

[Trailmeister]

http://bicycletutor.com/ (Simple w/ video)

http://www.jimlangley.net/ (Simple...)


Sheldon was a bit OCD. Hope this helps. It doesn't hurt to have a stand and some tools...

[Dano]

Cycling Divas ( cycloholichica) are not permtted to repair their own bikes...it's a Diva union thing.

Dano