Basic Maintenance Flashcards
Why is it essential to check your bike before heading out on a ride?
To ensure safety and avoid delays due to parts failure
Regular checks can also prevent injury risks associated with riding a poorly maintained bike.
What should you be able to do if you don’t always have a mechanic with you?
Take the wheels off and put them back on
This skill is important for transporting your bike and handling minor issues like flat tires.
What basic maintenance can enhance the enjoyment of each ride?
Keeping the chain and a few other parts clean
Regular cleaning contributes to the bike’s overall performance.
What is the focus of the chapter’s maintenance procedures?
Three cleaning and maintenance procedures that are easy to perform
These procedures are fundamental to keeping your bike running smoothly.
What is recommended for home mechanics in this chapter?
Read ‘Performing Mechanical Work’
This section provides essential knowledge for bike maintenance.
What tools are required for the work in this chapter?
No special tools beyond level 1
Basic tools are sufficient for performing the maintenance tasks.
What should you check regarding the quick-release (QR) levers or axle nuts?
Ensure they are tight
This secures the front and rear hub axles to the dropouts.
What should you check for excessive or uneven wear on brake pads?
Pad material thickness and groove wear
For disc brakes, the pad material should be at least the thickness of a dime.
How should you verify that the brakes are securely mounted?
Grab and twist the caliper or brake pads
Ensure all bolts are tight to confirm secure mounting.
What should happen when you squeeze the brake levers with rim brakes?
Pads should flat against the rims without hitting the tires
For disc brakes, pads should contact the rotor.
What should you check for after squeezing the levers to the handlebars?
Brake-cable tension adjustment and hydraulic disc-brake bleeding
Refer to sections 10-2 and 10-4 for brake-cable tension adjustment or 10-22 for hydraulic disc-brake bleeding.
What is the proper tire pressure range for most mountain bike tires?
30 to 60 pounds per square inch (psi)
Tubeless tires can run below 30 psi; fat-bike tires typically require 5-8 psi.
What should you check for on the tires?
Excessive wear, cracking, or gashes
What should you ensure about the handlebar and stem?
They are tight and the stem is lined up with the front tire
What indicates that the gears are functioning properly?
The chain should not skip or shift by itself, and each click of the shifter moves the chain over one sprocket
How often should the chain be replaced on a mountain bike?
Every 500 to 1,000 miles of off-road riding or every 2,000 miles of paved riding
What should you do after applying the front brake when testing the headset?
Push the bike forward and backward to check the headset for tightness and clunking noises
What is required for transporting your mountain bike easily?
The ability to remove the front wheel
What is the first step to releasing the brake for wheel removal?
Release the brake
What happens if you squeeze the lever of a hydraulic disc brake without a disc or travel spacer?
The pistons can pop out too far, making it difficult to get the rotor back between the pads
How do most rim brakes allow the tire to pass?
By having a mechanism to release the brake arms so they spring away from the rim
Fill in the blank: Most cantilever brakes are released by pulling the enlarged head of the _______ cable out of a notch.
straddle
What is the process for detaching a wheel with a quick-release skewer?
- Pull outward on the quick-release lever
- Unscrew the nut on the opposite end until it clears the wheel-retention tabs
- Pull the wheel off
True or False: You need a tool to detach a wheel with a quick-release skewer.
False
What do most mountain bike forks have to prevent the wheel from falling out?
A wheel-retention system consisting of nubs or bent tabs on the fork ends
What are through-axles?
Extra-long hub axles that fit directly through the hub-cartridge bearings and screw or clamp directly into the dropouts.
What is the diameter of front through-axles?
Generally 15mm or 20mm.
What benefits do through-axles provide compared to quick-release skewers?
- Stiffen the fork against lateral and twisting flex
- Higher degree of safety against the wheel falling out
- Improved tracking and steering
- Smoother up-and-down action
True or False: A through-axle is necessary on an ‘upside-down’ fork.
True
What is the role of a through-axle in an upside-down fork?
It ties the lower legs of the fork together.
What are the common traits of through-axle systems?
- Axle comes as a part of the fork
- 15mm through-axle hubs have the same inside diameter of bearings
- Same position of the disc-brake rotor relative to caliper mounting tabs
Describe the traditional through-axle.
Resembles a long bolt that clamps into the fork’s dropouts, with a head that is too large to pass through the hub bearings.
What is the function of pinch bolts in a traditional through-axle?
They tighten the dropouts around the ends of the axle once it is fully installed.
How does a quick-release through-axle operate?
It has a lever that releases the axle and can be used to screw the axle in or out of the dropout.
What is the procedure to remove a quick-release through-axle?
Flip open the lever fully and rotate counterclockwise to unscrew the axle.
What is the first step to remove a traditional draw-bolt through-axle?
Loosen the clamp bolts or levers securing the bolt head.
What is the typical tool used to unscrew axle nuts?
A 15mm wrench.
Fill in the blank: The nuts on the axle ends unscrew _______.
counterclockwise
What must be done before pulling the wheel out with axle nuts?
Loosen the nuts enough to clear the retention tabs on the dropouts.
What is the first step to detach a wheel on a Cannondale Lefty fork?
Remove the disc brake caliper.
What tools are commonly required to unscrew the axle bolt on a Cannondale Lefty fork?
A 5mm or 6mm hex key.
What should be greased during the reinstallation of the wheel?
Bearing seats on the axle
This ensures smooth operation of the wheel.
How should the front wheel be installed with a disc brake?
Lower the dropouts onto the hub ends and align the brake caliper with the rotor
Ensure the rotor does not dislodge either pad.
What is the proper action when installing a front wheel with rim brakes?
Leave the brake open and lower the fork onto the wheel
This allows the bike’s weight to seat the axle fully into the fork.
What should you ensure about the axle ends when installing a wheel?
They are fully seated in the dropouts
This is critical for the stability and safety of the bike.
What is a common feature of older through-axle forks?
They may not have lips on the medial sides of the dropouts
This requires manual alignment of the hub, axle, and dropouts.
What is the first step in tightening a quick-release skewer?
Hold the quick-release lever in the open position
After finger-tightening the opposite-end nut, what should you do next?
Push the lever over to the closed position
The lever should be at a 90-degree angle to the axle.
What indicates that the quick-release lever is properly closed?
It leaves an imprint on your palm
This means sufficient hand pressure was applied.
What should you do if the quick-release lever does not close tightly enough?
Open the lever, tighten the end nut one-quarter turn, and close it again
What is the final position of the quick-release lever after proper tightening?
Pointing straight up or toward the back of the bike
What is the first step in installing a through-axle?
Slide the wheel into the fork, aligning the rotor between the pads of the disc-brake caliper
How do you tighten a QR15 axle into the fork leg?
Use the quick-release lever as a handle to tighten the axle
What should you do if the quick-release lever does not point up after adjustment?
Adjust the thread by removing the fixing screw and triangular washer
Fill in the blank: The quick-release lever should take a firm push to flip it into the _______.
tightened position
True or False: The quick-release skewer is simply a glorified wing nut.
False
What should you do to check the tightness of the axle after installation?
Try to knock the wheel out by banging on top of the tire
What is the purpose of adjusting the QR lever?
To ensure optimal tension when in the straight-up position.
What shape does the Manitou QR15 HexLock through-axle have?
Hex shape on either end.
How should the axle be oriented when installing the Manitou QR15?
Laser-etched instructions facing up, toward the handlebar.
What should you do if the lever requires insufficient pressure to close?
Flip the lever open, unscrew the adjustment ring counterclockwise, and flip the lever back up.
What is the first step for tightening a screw-in through-axle?
Tighten the axle with a hex key or Torx key of the appropriate size.
What is the recommended tightening torque for steel bolt-on skewers?
65 inch-pounds.
What is the recommended tightening torque for titanium bolt-on skewers?
85 inch-pounds.
When tightening axle nuts, what is the recommended method?
Alternate sides, snugging up the nuts bit by bit until tight.
Is there a need to tighten disc brakes after putting in the wheel?
No, because they weren’t loosened to remove the wheel.
What is the first step to reconnect rim brakes?
Hook up the brake cable.
What should you do to check the brakes after reconnecting?
Squeeze the lever and ensure the cable doesn’t slip.
What should you do if a brake pad rubs the rim?
Adjust spring tension in the arms or hold the rim centered when securing the hub.
What is the first step in removing the rear wheel?
Shift the chain onto the smallest rear cog.
What is required when releasing the rear brake?
Follow the same procedure as with the front wheel.
What should you do with a clutch rear derailleur before removing the rear wheel?
Free or lock the jockey-wheel cage.
Fill in the blank: To tighten the adjustment ring if the lever is too hard to flip, turn it _______.
clockwise
True or False: You should always check fork alignment after installing a through-axle.
True
What should you do if the wheel sits off-center after tightening?
Get the wheel trued or true it yourself.
What is the procedure to secure the wheel in dropouts using a through-axle?
Slide the axle in, compress spring, rotate lever 90 degrees, then flip lever to closed position.
What is the purpose of the Hurricane Components Fork Up?
To install a through-axle adapter for racks that clamp the dropouts.
What should be done if the skewer is overtightened?
Avoid leaning on a long hex key to prevent snapping the skewer.
What is the initial action when tightening the clamping bolts on traditional through-axles?
Tighten the draw bolt from outside the dropout.
What should you engage on a SRAM rear derailleur with a clutch?
The lock on the cage
This is necessary to facilitate rear wheel removal.
What position should the lever switch be in to free the lower knuckle before removing the rear wheel?
Off position (forward)
This step is crucial for proper wheel removal.
What is the first step in removing the rear wheel?
Release the hub
Depending on axle type, follow specific steps for different axles.
How do you push the wheel out of the rear dropouts?
Move the chain out of the way and push the wheel
This often involves pulling back on the rear derailleur.
What should you do if the bottom half of the chain catches the wheel as it falls?
Jiggle the wheel while lifting it
This helps free the cogs from the chain.
What gear should the rear derailleur be in when installing the rear wheel?
High gear
This positions the derailleur correctly for wheel installation.
What should you check on a clutch rear derailleur before installing the wheel?
Cage lock or lever switch
Ensure it’s locked (SRAM) or freed (Shimano) as needed.
What should you guide the disc-brake rotor or tire between when setting the bike down?
The pads in the caliper or rim-brake pads
Proper alignment is essential to avoid damage.
What should you check after inserting the axle or hub ends into the dropouts?
That they are fully seated
This ensures the wheel is centered correctly.
How do you secure the axle after installation?
Tighten the quick-release skewer, through-axle, bolt-on skewer, or axle nuts
This is similar to the procedure for the front wheel.
What should you do to release the rear-derailleur cage lock after installing the wheel?
Pull forward (counterclockwise) on the bottom of the jockey-wheel cage
This action releases the lock and tensions the chain.
What is the recommended method for cleaning most bicycles?
Soap, water, sponges, and brushes
This method is gentler on both the bike and the environment.
Why should high-pressure sprayers be avoided for cleaning bikes?
They can force water into bearings, pivots, and frame tubes
This can cause extensive damage over time.
What should you use to wash a very dirty bike?
A hose with a car-washing brush
This can be effective for initial cleaning.
What is the first step in wiping the chain?
Remove the wheels
This makes access to the chain easier.
What should you fill a bucket with when scrubbing the bike?
Hot water and liquid dish soap
This mixture is effective for cleaning.
What should you avoid when rinsing the bike?
Getting water in the bearings of the bottom bracket, headset, pedals, and hubs
This can lead to damage and maintenance issues.
What can be used to remove remaining grime after washing the bike?
ProGold Bike Wash or Pedro’s Green Fizz
These cleaners can help achieve a sparkling finish.
What is a chain hanger?
A little nub attached to the inner side of the right seatstay
It is used to secure the chain while cleaning.
What should you do if the bike is really dirty?
Start by washing it with a hose while the wheels are on or off
This prepares the bike for a thorough cleaning.
How can you secure the chain if there is no chain hanger?
Pull the chain back over a dowel stick or an old rear hub
This keeps the chain in place during cleaning.
What type of brush is recommended for tough dirt on a bike?
A stiff nylon-bristle brush
This is effective for hard-to-reach places.
What should you avoid getting in the vent holes of bike frames?
Water
Water can cause damage, especially if using high-pressure washers.
What is the purpose of the drivetrain in a bike?
Transfers energy into the bike’s forward motion
Why is it important to keep the drivetrain clean and lubricated?
To ensure it moves freely and extends its life
What is a quick method for cleaning the drivetrain?
Using a rag to wipe down the chain, derailleur jockey wheels, and chainrings
What should you wear while cleaning the drivetrain?
Rubber gloves
What is Gear Floss used for?
Cleaning between the cogs of the freewheel
What should you do after cleaning the chain?
Drip chain lube on the chain and do a light wipe-down
Fill in the blank: The drivetrain consists of an oil-covered chain running over the _______.
[gears and derailleurs]
What type of brush should be used for cleaning the drivetrain?
A different brush from the one used for cleaning the frame
Why is it best to use citrus solvents for cleaning the chain?
Minimizes danger from fumes and reduces disposal problems
True or False: It is safe to remove a chain without a master link for cleaning.
False
What is recommended to protect your skin while using solvents?
Use rubber gloves and apply skin lotion
What is a self-contained chain cleaner used for?
To clean a chain quickly and conveniently
What happens if you open a standard chain with a chain tool?
It can lead to breakage while riding
What should you do if you need to remove the chain for cleaning?
Use a master link if available
What is the first step in the procedure for thoroughly cleaning a chain?
Remove the chain
Fill in the blank: Hang the chain to _______ after cleaning.
[dry]
What should be done after installing the chain back on the bike?
Lubricate the chain
What is the purpose of dripping chain lube along the top edges of the chain?
To get it between the plates at each rivet
What should you do with the solvent used in bike maintenance?
Allow it to settle in a clear container, decant the clear stuff, and dispose of the sludge
How can you quickly clean the drivetrain after a ride?
Use a rag to wipe the jockey wheels, chainrings, front derailleur, and chain while turning the crank
Why is it beneficial to keep a clean bike?
Minimizes corrosion problems and allows you to see other issues as they arise
What must be done to threaded parts before tightening?
Prep with lubricant, threadlock compound, or an antiseize compound
What is the function of lubricated threads?
Most threads should be lubricated with grease or oil to ensure smooth operation
What type of threads need to be locked to prevent loosening?
Threads that need to stay in place but are not supposed to be tightened fully
Which compounds are recommended for locked threads?
Loctite, Finish Line Threadlock, or an equivalent
What is the purpose of antiseize compounds on some threads?
To prevent galling and binding which makes tightening and extraction problematic
What should never be done with a titanium bolt into a titanium part?
Never tighten a titanium bolt into a titanium part to avoid galling
What must be ensured when using hex keys or Torx wrenches?
They must be fully engaged in the bolt head to prevent rounding off
What happens if open-end, box-end, or socket wrenches are not properly seated?
The bolt head will round off
What is the consequence of not fully engaging splined wrenches?
The splines will be damaged or the tool will snap
What should be done to pin spanners before exerting force?
Ensure they are fully seated in the pinholes
What does the designation ‘M’ in front of bolt size numbers indicate?
It refers to the bolt shaft diameter in millimeters
How can tightness be classified?
Into four levels
Fill in the blank: A clean bike is a _______ bike.
happy
What is the torque range for snug screws?
10-30 in-lbs or 1-3 N-m
Small setscrews, bearing-preload bolts, and screws into plastic parts need to be merely snug.
What torque range is required for firmly tightened bolts?
30-80 in-lbs or 3-9 N-m
Small bolts like shoe-cleat bolts and cable anchor bolts need to be firmly tightened.
What is the torque range for tight components?
80-240 in-lbs or 9-27 N-m
Components such as wheel axles and seat-post binder bolts need to be tight.
What torque range is classified as really tight?
280-600 in-lbs or 31-68 N-m
Large parts like crankarm bolts and bottom-bracket cups need to be really tight.
What is a common misconception about lubrication?
Expecting parts to work simply because they are lubricated
Lubricants can attract dirt and become gunky if not maintained properly.
What happens if parts are washed but not lubricated?
They will get dry and squeaky.
Why is it important to test-ride a bike after adjustments?
Parts behave differently under load.
What is the maintenance schedule based on?
Number of rides
This approach is more relevant for mountain bikes than mileage.
What factors influence the maintenance needs of a bike?
Bike condition, trail conditions, duration of rides, riding style
A bike used in wet conditions requires more frequent maintenance.
What should you do after dripping oil on a moving part?
Wipe the area to remove excess oil.
What is the first step to check before every ride?
Pull the brake levers to ensure they are working properly.
What should you inspect on the tires before a ride?
Look for cuts, bulges, and worn tread.
What should you check regarding the suspension after every ride?
Wipe the suspension shafts and pivots.
What maintenance check should be performed every 5-10 rides?
Check chain wear with a chain-elongation gauge.
What should you do if tire tread wear is excessive?
Replace the tire.
How should you maintain mechanical disc brakes?
Drip light oil on lever pivots and arm pivot on calipers.
What should you do if you notice noises during a ride?
Investigate the source of rattles, rubbing noises, or creaks.
What is an important task to do if ridden in wet conditions?
Remove the seatpost and drain water.
What should you do with crank bolts every 5-10 rides?
Check and tighten with a torque wrench.
Fill in the blank: A bike used in ______ conditions requires more frequent maintenance.
wet
What should be checked every 20-40 rides regarding the frame pump?
Check that frame pump works or that CO2 cartridges and inflator are in good condition.
What should you check for in the spare inner tube every 20-40 rides?
Check condition and presence of appropriate tools in seat bag.
What maintenance is recommended for derailleur pivots every 20-40 rides?
Drip chain lube on front and rear derailleur pivots.
What should be done to derailleur jockey wheel bushings and seals every 20-40 rides?
Overhaul derailleur jockey wheel bushings and seals.
What is the maintenance procedure for integrated-spindle bottom brackets?
Peel off bearing covers and add grease.
What is the process for cleaning hydraulic brake pistons?
Clean the outside of the hydraulic disc pistons using the correct brake fluid.
What should be checked regarding brake movement?
Check disc-brake operation for smooth return of brake pads and rim brakes for free rotation.
What should be checked regarding rotor trueness?
Check rotor trueness and condition or rim brake-track wear.
How often should wheel trueness be checked?
Check wheel trueness every 20-40 rides.
What should be checked on rims every 20-40 rides?
Check rims for cracks, particularly at the spoke holes.
What service should be performed on front and rear shocks every 20-40 rides?
Service front and rear shocks and perform rear shock air-sleeve service.
What should be done to pedal bearings every 20-40 rides?
Overhaul pedal bearings and regrease.
What maintenance is necessary for shift and brake cables?
Lubricate shift and brake cables.
What should you do to the seatpost every 20-40 rides?
Remove and regrease seatpost.
What should be checked regarding shoe cleats?
Check shoe cleats for wear and replace if needed.
What maintenance should be done every 80-150 rides for the fork and rear shock?
Send fork and rear shock to rebuild or damper service.
What should be done to bearings in various components every 80-150 rides?
Overhaul bearings in hubs, pedals, bottom brackets, and headsets.
What should be done to cantilever and V-brakes every 80-150 rides?
Pull off their pivot bosses, regrease them, and reassemble.
When should hydraulic brakes be bled?
Bleed hydraulic brakes more often if brake performance drops.
What should be replaced every 80-150 rides regarding shift and brake cables?
Replace shift and brake cables and housings.
What components should be replaced every 3-6 years?
Replace handlebar, stem, fork, rear shock, seatpost, and saddle.
What are threaded fasteners used for in bike maintenance?
To hold many components to the bike, including the bike itself acting as a ‘nut’ for certain components
Threaded fasteners include bolts, screws, and nuts.
What two measurements determine thread sizing and naming?
Diameter and pitch
Diameter is the nominal outside diameter of the external thread, while pitch is the distance between the crests of adjacent threads.
How is the diameter of fractional inch size threads measured?
Measured from the top of the thread peaks
Actual measurement may be slightly smaller than the common name given to a thread size.
What is the abbreviation for ‘threads per inch’?
TPI
This designation is used for fractional threads.
What prefix is used for metric thread sizing?
M
For example, M6 threads may measure between 5.8mm and 5.9mm.
What type of threads tighten when turned counterclockwise?
Left-hand threads
An example is left pedals.
What is ‘preload’ in the context of threaded fasteners?
The stretching force that holds the joint together
It is created as a fastener is tightened.
What is a common practice for thread preparation during assembly?
Lubricate threads before assembly
Lubrication helps prevent corrosion and allows the joint to achieve proper tension.
What should not be lubricated during assembly?
Nyloc fittings and fasteners with preinstalled threadlocker
Nyloc systems are used for adjustments with low or no torque.
What is a critical step when engaging inner and outer threads?
Align threads correctly
Misalignment can damage the first threads and make installation difficult.
What should a threaded fastener joint be tightened to?
As tight as the weakest member of the bolt or nut component system can withstand
For example, crank bolts can take high torque, but the aluminum crank cannot.
What tool is used to achieve specific torque values during assembly?
Torque wrench
Torque wrenches measure the amount of turning effort applied to the bolt or nut.
How can torque values be measured?
In Newton-meter (Nm), inch-pound, or foot-pound units
These units refer to the force applied to the end of a lever.
What is the conversion from inch-pounds to foot-pounds?
Divide the inch-pound number by 12
For example, 60 inch-pounds is equal to 5 foot-pounds.
What is ‘perceived effort’ in the context of tightening fasteners?
The subjective amount of force applied to a wrench when tightening a fastener
It varies with the length of the tool and where the hand holds the tool.
What is a mechanical advantage when working on tight bolts?
Using a wrench as a lever that pivots on the bolt or nut
Positioning two wrenches to form a ‘V’ can apply more force effectively.
What is the maximum angle to avoid when positioning wrenches?
Greater than 90 degrees
This ensures effective application of force to the bolt head.
What is the principle behind applying force to a wrench?
Apply force to wrench according to distance from hand to thread
When using one wrench, what should you look for?
Look for the second lever, sometimes in the form of the opposite crank or frame tubing
What is lubrication in the context of bicycles?
Lubrication prevents friction and helps prevent corrosion
What is ‘boundary lubrication’?
A very thin film of lubricant that separates moving bearing surfaces
What is a characteristic of a good lubricant?
It should stick to the part requiring lubrication
What are examples of light lubricants for bicycles?
- Park Tool CL-1 Synthetic Blend Chain Lube
- Triflow®
What are examples of heavy lubricants for bicycles?
- Phil Wood® Tenacious Oil®
- Finish Line® Cross Country
What is grease in the context of bicycle maintenance?
Grease is oil suspended in a mixture of surfactant, soap, or other compounds
When should grease be replaced?
When it becomes contaminated with grit and dirt or when the oil becomes old and dry
How often should grease be replaced for regular bike use?
Once a year; two to three times per year for racing or daily use
What should be avoided when using liquid lubricants?
Do not drip or spray oil into greased bearings such as hubs, headsets, and bottom brackets
What is anti-seize compound used for?
Provides a thick and durable coating for surfaces in threaded and press fit parts
What are threadlockers?
Special liquid adhesives for threaded and pressed fittings
What type of threadlockers are commonly available?
Anaerobic type, which dries independently of air
What does ‘service removable’ mean in the context of threadlockers?
The part can be unthreaded and removed with normal service procedures
What is a retaining compound used for?
Intended for press fit applications and may be used for poor cartridge bearing fits
What is an assembly compound?
A silicon dioxide material in a liquid or paste carrier, providing extra friction
What should not be confused with an assembly compound?
Grease; it is not lubrication and should never be used as lubrication
What type of cleaners should be avoided for bicycle components?
Highly flammable liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, or diesel
What is a safe solvent choice for cleaning bicycle parts?
Park Tool CB-4 Chain and Parts Cleaning Fluid
What is a journal bearing?
A simple bearing where one surface slides or turns inside another
What are the two basic ball bearing systems?
- Cartridge bearing systems
- Adjustable ‘cup-and-cone’ bearing systems
What should be done to maintain bearing systems?
Grease the races and balls to minimize wear
What is a characteristic of cartridge bearings?
Designed to be disposable and rely on replacement of the entire cartridge
What should be done if the axle or spindle can be removed from the cartridge bearing?
Lift the seal and flush the bearings clean with a solvent
What happens to bearing systems under stress?
They may feel more drag even when adjustments are correct
What is a basic component of diagnosing mechanical issues?
Knowing the names of the component parts
Familiarity with terminology helps in communication with mechanics.
How can diagnosing from the saddle be beneficial?
It allows identification of unusual noises and their patterns
Example: A noise every pedal revolution may indicate a crankset issue.
What should you note if an unusual bike noise occurs?
Whether it occurs when pedaling only or also when coasting
This helps in pinpointing the problem area.
Who can assist in diagnosing bike problems effectively?
A mechanically-minded friend
They can help stress the suspect part while you listen for issues.
What is the purpose of the ‘Troubleshooting’ tables at the end of the chapters?
To list symptoms, likely problems, and solutions
These tables assist in identifying and fixing issues.
What does having the correct tool for the job ensure?
Makes the work easier
This includes general maintenance tools and specialty tools for bicycles.
What is the advantage of purchasing tools ahead of time?
It avoids delays when a part fails
Anticipating tool needs means they are available when required.
What should be considered when selecting a wrench for a bolt?
Pick the smallest size that fits over the head/nut
This ensures a better grip and reduces damage.
What is essential for mechanics when using tools?
Always use tools correctly
Proper alignment and fit are crucial to avoid damage.
What is the function of a repair stand?
To elevate the bike for easier repairs
It allows the mechanic to work comfortably without bending over.
What should be done if a bike frame has non-round tubing?
Clamp the seat post instead of the frame tubing
Seat posts are designed to withstand the rider’s weight.
What is a common size for commercial workbenches?
72 inches by 30 inches
This size accommodates a wheel and provides adequate workspace.
What is the recommended height for a workbench?
Approximately 4 to 6 inches below the user’s elbow
This height promotes good posture and comfort.
How should tools be organized in a home shop?
Use a pegboard or tool magnets for easy access
Grouping tools together enhances efficiency during repairs.
What is a crucial safety procedure during bicycle repair?
Schedule time to avoid rushing
Good leverage and body posture reduce fatigue and risk of injury.
What type of protection should be worn when using a hammer?
Safety glasses
They prevent injury from flying debris.
What should be done when working with degreasers and solvents?
Use care and consider wearing nitrile gloves
Check Safety Data Sheets for health risks associated with products.
What is a good precaution for a bicycle mechanic regarding injuries?
Have a tetanus shot
It’s wise to be prepared for minor cuts and abrasions.
