A trusted bike shop means that you can rely on them for any repairs.
Even if this is true, any time your bike needs to be repaired means you will spend less time riding and it will most likely cost you money. You can save time and money by learning basic repairs that you can do yourself.
If you aren’t sure if your bike can handle the task, it’s perfectly acceptable to bring it to the shop. These are the two scenarios where you should first go to the shop.
You should take the problem to the mechanic. Ask the mechanic about the problem. If they don’t know, ask them again. It will be easier to fix it the next time.
After riding 20-50 miles on a brand new bike, return to the shop. After the first few rides, components settle and shift. You’ll need a professional to adjust them.
It’s not fun to take your bike to the shop every now and again for minor repairs. We reached out to bike mechanics for their thoughts on the most common questions. These are the basic steps to undertake for bike repair Edinburgh.
Problem: My chain doesn’t shift correctly and skips a lot.
What happened?
Rinse and dry your cassette and chain (the gears at the back). There are bike-specific cleaners and chain-cleaning tools, but you can also use dish soap or a toothbrush. After applying a drop of lube to each roller, (more is not always better in this case) continue turning the cranks backwards for two to three turns. Next, use a clean rag to gently grasp the outer plates of the chain as you turn the cranks for another rotation. Continue to wipe off any excess lube. It should remain mostly within the chain’s rollers and not outside, where dirt can attach.
Problem: I fixed the flat. Now, the tire rubs one of the brake pads.
What happened? You reinstalled the wheel crooked.
You might have accidentally dropped one of the skewer springs, which help to keep your wheel in place. You should make sure that the narrow side is facing your hub. Otherwise, it can increase the axle diameter which could affect the fit.
Tip: To remove a wheel, you don’t need to completely remove it from the skewer. Simply open the quick-release lever, spin the nut the other way to loosen it, and then gently remove it from dropouts (slots on the frame and fork that hold each skewer). To ensure the wheel sits properly, tighten the bolt.
What happened? Your tubes are underinflated, your tire is full of debris, or they’re not being installed correctly.
Low tire pressure can cause the tube to pinch against the rim, causing what’s known as a pinch flat. To find the recommended PSI (pounds/square inch), look on the side of the tire. The minimum PSI (pounds per square inch) should be reached. Fill the tube to the maximum pressure if you are a heavier rider (over 225 pounds plus your bike). To check for foreign objects, such as gravel or glass, when changing tires, make sure you run your finger around the tire’s inner side to see if there are any. Make sure the tube isn’t stuck between the tire and the rim before you inflate it.
Problem: My chain keeps popping off. Is it possible to adjust the shifter?
What happened: When shifting between chainrings, you didn’t use the soft pedal.
The chain will have to work harder to move if you pedal hard, especially when shifting on hills. As you shift gears, ease off. Although you won’t lose momentum but your chain will move exactly where it needs to by not panicking at the last minute, your shifts won’t be lost.
If you’re still dropping your chain despite soft pedaling, you might need to have a professional adjust your front derailleur’s limit screws (the part that moves your chain between rings). Although these screws are precise, even small turns can cause serious damage to your chain if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Problem: My chain makes a grinding sound. Can you make it quieter?
What happened? You are cross-chaining, or you don’t clean and lubricate your chain enough.
Your chain may be grating, or rasping when it’s in your big chainring in the front and your largest sprocket back (or vice-versa), which will increase wear on your components and ultimately cost you money. You can try shifting to your smaller chainring and/or clicking down two or three gears at the back.
If this is the case, you may need to clean and lubricate your chain. It is recommended to do this at least once every couple of weeks and after any muddy or wet ride. You may need to see a mechanic if none of these options work. You may need to adjust your derailleurs or your chain might be worn.