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Beginner Cycling

Eliza N.
Eliza N. Sendmail

Does anyone have any tips or book recommendations for someone trying to learn how to ride/maintain a bicycle as an adult

asked over 2 years ago | Report

I just bought a slightly used 1991 GT Tequesta 21-Speed.

Does any one have any tips on good books about maintaining bicycles?

Also, I am learning to ride as an adult ... so any tips would be helpful :)

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7 answers

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  • Greg S.
    Greg S. Sendmail

    You can try "Bicycling Magazine's Complete Guide to Bicycle Maintenance and Repair for Road and Mountain Bikes". It will cover a lot about maintaining a bike properly. I use it. Available from Amazon.

    Tip #1: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/, this site will answer a lot of questions. I find it to be invaluable.

    Tip #2: Keep the drivetrain properly lubricated. Do not use oil on the chain. Clean the drivetrain with a degreaser and lubricate with a proper chain lubricant such as Pedro's Ice Wax.

    Tip #3: Check with local bicycle shops as they often offer Saturday morning maintenance training for free which is just like no money.

    Tip #4: Build a toolkit. A simple multitool is a good start as you can carry it on rides. Buy only the tools you need for the job at hand. After a while, if you stick with doing your own maintenance, you'll have all the tools you'll need.

    Tip #5: Find a shop you trust to do the jobs that are too big/complex for you.

    Tip #6: Ride a lot to become familiar with your bike. Riding along side a brick wall can help you hear squeeks you don't normally hear.

    Have fun. Ask questions. Go ride your bike...

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Julie F.
    Julie F. Sendmail

    You may also try looking for local organizations or bike shops that hold clinics about riding and maintenance. I just started riding a road bike and these clinics have been an amazing help and also were a great introduction to others in the community.

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Brodie B.
    Brodie B. Sendmail

    See if there is a Luna Chix group in your area.

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Jim
    Jim Sendmail

    REI Stores tend to have beginner and more advanced maintenance clinics on a regular basis

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Kris R.PRO
    Kris R. Sendmail

    In line with build a toolkit, see what local bike shops have a "we'll supply the toolkit if you pay an annual fee" set up. You can find out exactly what tools you need and don't need that way, by how frequently you use them and how much they cost.

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Ron K.
    Ron K. Sendmail

    I found a great site, this man has written anything I can imagine from riding 101 to correct posture to all sorts of repairs & how to adjust gears, etc. etc. Check it out at sheldonbrown.com

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Maria V.
    Maria V. Sendmail

    I haven't bought a bike yet, but like you, I will also be learning how to ride as an adult. My son is a year & a half, so I figure I have about two years to learn before I need to start taking him out for bike rides!

    The advice I've gotten (from a friendly local bike shop employee) is to find a park or street with a small downhill path and practice going downhill without putting your feet on the pedals. That way you can work on balance and momentum without thinking about having to pedal first. He also mentioned to practice in short 10-minute bursts, one to a couple of times daily. Supposed to help keep frustration levels low since you're not on for very long each time. His final advice was to find a very patient friend to help out.

    Good luck!

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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