Thinking about buying an e-bike? Or possibly an electric recumbent? Here are some tips to consider when buying an e-bike: Determine your riding needs: Assess how and where you plan to ride your e-bike. Consider factors such as commuting, recreational use, off-road trails, or hilly terrains. This will help you choose the right type and features that match your riding preferences. Set a budget: Determine your budget range for purchasing an e-bike. Keep in mind that e-bikes can vary significantly in price, depending on factors like brand, motor power, battery capacity, and additional feature ..read more

Looking to buy local??? Here is a list of companies in North America that manufacture e-bikes: Rad Power Bikes (Seattle, Washington) Specialized (Morgan Hill, California) Trek Bicycles (Waterloo, Wisconsin) Giant Bicycles (Newbury Park, California) Cannondale (Wilton, Connecticut) Electra Bicycle Company (Vista, California) Juiced Bikes (Chula Vista, California) Aventon Bikes (Ontario, California) Bulls Bikes USA (Southern California) QuietKat (Eagle, Colorado) Riese & Müller (North America headquarters in Brooklyn, New York) BULLS Bikes USA (North American headquarters in Thousand Oaks ..read more

Truing a bicycle wheel without using a dedicated wheel truing stand may seem challenging, but it is possible with a few simple tools and techniques. While a truing stand provides more accuracy and precision, the following method can be helpful for minor adjustments or emergency situations. Eg. Like when you need to fix it after a crash and the wheel has tacoed (see photo on the right), but you still need to bicycle home. Below is a detailed guide on how to true a bicycle wheel without a truing stand: Tools needed: Bicycle frame (with the wheel mounted) Zip ties or rubber bands Brake pads (o ..read more

Here is a list of companies that manufacture truing stands for bicycles: Park Tool: Park Tool is a well-known brand that offers a range of truing stands, including the TS-2.2 and TS-4.2 models. Their truing stands are widely used and trusted by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Feedback Sports: Feedback Sports produces high-quality truing stands like the Pro Truing Stand. Their stands are known for their durability and precise adjustments, making them popular among cyclists and bike shops. Minoura: Minoura manufactures truing stands such as the FT-1 Pro Wheel Truing Stand. Their ..read more

Below is a detailed guide on how to true a bicycle wheel using a truing stand and gauges: Tools needed: Truing stand: A device that securely holds the wheel and allows for precise adjustments. Spoke wrench: Used to tighten or loosen the spokes. Spoke tension gauge: Helps measure the tension of the spokes. Wheel truing gauge: Used to determine lateral and radial deviations in the wheel. Step 1: Prepare the truing stand and wheel Place the truing stand on a stable surface and ensure it is properly adjusted and leveled. Insert the wheel into the truing stand, securing it using the quick-relea ..read more

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with disc brakes on a bicycle, along with troubleshooting steps and fixes: Squeaking or squealing noise: Symptoms: High-pitched noise when applying the brakes. Troubleshooting: Clean the brake rotor and brake pads to remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the noise. Inspect the brake pads for wear. If they are worn unevenly or have become contaminated, they may need to be replaced. Fix: Clean the brake rotor with isopropyl alcohol or a specialized disc brake cleaner. Remove the brake pads and lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpap ..read more

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with caliper brakes on a bicycle, along with troubleshooting steps and fixes: Brake pads worn out: Symptoms: Reduced braking performance, screeching or squealing noise, excessive brake lever travel. Troubleshooting: Visually inspect the brake pads for wear. If the pad material is worn down to the wear indicators or below, they need to be replaced. Fix: Remove the old brake pads. Install new brake pads that are compatible with your caliper brakes. Ensure the brake pads are properly aligned with the braking surface. Adjust the position of th ..read more

Someone (a bike mechanic) emailed me this story: I was elbow-deep in a tune-up when a disheveled customer walked into the shop, looking like he had seen a ghost. I greeted him and asked how I could help. He replied, "I had a gnarly accident on my bike yesterday. I was cruising down a steep hill when I went to apply my brakes, but they didn't work. I couldn't stop, and I crashed into a fence." I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow and ask, "Did you forget to check your brakes?" The customer looked sheepish and admitted, "I haven't had a tune-up in years. I guess I forgot to check my brake cab ..read more

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with the headset on a bicycle and the corresponding troubleshooting steps and fixes: Loose headset: Symptoms: A rattling or knocking sound when riding, handlebars moving independently from the front wheel. Troubleshooting: Check the headset adjustment by holding the front brake and rocking the bike back and forth. If there is excess play or movement, the headset is likely loose. Fix: Loosen the stem bolts on the handlebars. Tighten the top cap bolt on the headset using an Allen key. Gradually tighten the stem bolts while ensuring the handl ..read more

Below is a list of ways, apart from chain efficiency and wheel efficiency (which are covered in separate posts), that can help increase the overall efficiency of a bicycle: Bike Fit: Ensuring your bike is properly fitted to your body can significantly improve efficiency. Adjusting saddle height, handlebar reach, and stem length can optimize your riding position and reduce unnecessary strain or discomfort. Aerodynamics: Minimizing wind resistance can enhance efficiency, especially at higher speeds. Consider adopting an aerodynamic riding position, using aero handlebars, and wearing form-fi ..read more