How to Tune Up a Bike at Home: DIY Tips to Save Money

How to Tune Up a Bike at Home

Your reliable local bike shop will likely charge no less than $50 for a basic tune, but it can be hundreds if they need to go deep and replace parts. Learning to work on your own bike will save you the time and money involved in taking it to a bike shop, prevent fun-ending (and potentially dangerous) mechanical failures, and provide you with the satisfaction of embracing the DIY spirit.

This guide will cover the basics to get your bike rolling for spring. For detailed guides to specific parts on your bike, consult Park Tool’s Repair Help website for general instructions or the service manual for the specific component, which is often available on the manufacturer’s website. Sheldon Brown’s amazing website is a witty treasure trove of useful technical information as well.

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Start Cycling Now: The Best Beginner Road Bikes

best beginner road bike

 

I can give you my reviews, but buying a road bike is ultimately a personal decision. To find the best beginner road bike, it’s important to consider more than just the cost. Choose a bike that fits you well, is a joy to ride and best applies modern technology at that price.

Sounds a little intimidating, right? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered.

I’ve included easy-to-navigate guides to help you understand the difference between component groups and frame materials and to answer questions such as”do I really need disc brakes on a road bike?”

Then I rounded up the best bikes for your budget and riding style.

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How to Buy a Bicycle: Take our Quiz to Find the Perfect Bike

buy bicycle

To a new cyclist, entering a bike shop can feel like setting foot on another planet. Suddenly you’re surrounded by gadgets and gizmos. Electronic this and carbon that. And “Holy hell! They’re asking HOW much for a jersey or a pair of socks?!” The world of cycling comes with its own language and unique set of unspoken rules. So how do you navigate this strange new land and fit in with the locals?

It’s time to demystify the process and cut through the jargon so you can score the perfect shiny new toy. These tips will help you buy a bicycle that’s perfect for you.

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Get in Gear: How to Choose the Best Road Bike Components

road bike components
They’re called groupsets, drivetrains and components, but they all refer to the group of parts responsible for shifting and braking. Choosing road bike components is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when buying a new bike or upgrading an existing one. Do you go with mechanical or electronic shifting or use a compact or standard crankset? We’re inundated with options, but it pays to take the time to match your riding style to the right components. It could mean the difference between spinning confidently up a hill and feeling constantly bogged down in your easiest gear.

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What to Look For in an Entry Level Road Bike

 

entry level road bike

If you’ve started looking for an entry level road bike, but feel paralyzed by so many choices, you’re not alone. Buying your first road bike is a big decision. But knowing what to look for in a new bike is half the battle. Here are some considerations that will help lead you to the perfect ride, along with a few of my favorite bikes for beginners.

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