Maintenance full Flashcards
non-drive-side cup in the bottom bracket. Removed for maintenance of the bottom-bracket spindle and bearings, and it adjusts the bearings. Sometimes also applied to the top cup of the headset.
adjustable cup
a style of headset that allows the use of a fork with a threadless steering tube
AheadSet
also known as an allen wrench or hex key
allen key
another term for mountain bike
all-terrain bike (ATB)
a bolt securing a cable to a component
anchor bolt or cable anchor, cable anchor bolt, cable-fixing bolt
an American bicycle component company and parent company of Manitou
Answer Products
a brake manufacturer, a subsidiary of SRAM
Avid
a shaft around which a part turns, usually on bearings or bushings
axle
a length of a hub axle from dropout to dropout, referring to the distance from locknut face to locknut face
axle overlock dimension
a set of balls, generally made out of steel or ceramic, rolling in a track to allow a shaft to spin inside a cylindrical part
ball bearing
a short handlebar extension clamped onto the end of the handlebar and extending approximately perpendicular to it
bar end
a threaded cable stop that allows for fine adjustment of cable tension. Commonly found on rear derailleurs, shifters, brake levers, and dropper-post levers
barrel adjuster
a conical part with a bearing race around its circumference. It presses the ball bearings against the bearing race inside the bearing cup.
bearing cone
a polished, dish-shaped surface inside which ball bearings roll. The bearings roll on the outside of a bearing cone that presses them into their track inside this
bearing cup or headset cup
a track or surface on which the bearings roll. It can be inside a cup, on the outside of a cone, or inside a cartridge bearing
bearing race
a bolt clamping a seatpost in a frame, a bar end to a handlebar, a stem to a handlebar, or securing a threadless steering tube
binder bolt
to run out of fuel for the human body so that the ability to continue strenuous activity is impaired. The state of having such low blood sugar from insufficient intake of calories that the ability to perform is impaired
bonk
an assembly that allows the crank to rotate. Generally this includes bearings and an axle and on older bikes may include a fixed cup, an adjustable cup, and a lockring
bottom bracket (BB)
the vertical distance between the center of the bottom bracket and a horizontal line passing through the wheel-hub centers. Equal to the wheel radius minus the bottom bracket height.
Bottom-bracket drop
the height of the center of the bottom-bracket spindle above the ground
bottom-bracket height
a cylindrical housing at the bottom of a bicycle frame through which the bottom-bracket axle passes
bottom-bracket shell
a mechanical device that decelerates or stops the motion of the wheel through friction
brake
an arch-shaped part bolted to the ends of the brake bosses to reduce the flex of the bosses and seatstays when the cantilever or V-brakes are applied
brake booster
a fork or frame-mounted pivot for a brake arm
brake boss, or brake pivot, brake post, cantilever boss, cantilever pivot, cantilever post
a brake part fixed to the frame or fork containing moving parts attached to brake pads that stop or decelerate a wheel
brake caliper
a block of rubber or similar material used to slow the bike by creating friction on the rim, disc or other surface
brake pad or brake block
a metal pad holder that secures the brake pad to the brake arm
brake shoe
a generic term for most metal frame attachments, even those not brazed but rather welded or glued to the frame
braze-on boss
a method commonly used to construct steel bicycle frames. Involves the use of brass or silver solder to connect frame tubes and attach various items to the frame
brazing
a metal or plastic sleeve that acts as a simple bearing in pedals, suspension forks, rear shocks and shock-mounting points, suspension swingarm, derailleur pivots, and jockey wheels
bushing
a common type of frame tubing with varying wall thicknesses. Designed to accommodate high-stress points; ends of the tubes are thicker and other sections are thinner to reduce weight
butted tubing
wound or braided wire strands used to operate brakes and derailleurs
cable or inner wire
a cap on the end of a cable that keeps it from fraying
cable end cap
cable stop on a stem, headset washer, fork, or seatstay arch used to stop the brake cable housing for a cantilever or U-brake
cable hanger
a metal-reinforced exterior sheath through which a cable passes
cable housing or outer wire
a fitting on the frame, for, or stem at which a cable-housing segment terminates
cable stop or cable boss or cable-housing stop or outer wire stop
two guiding plates through which the chain travels. Both the front and rear derailleurs have this. on the rear also holds the jockey pulleys.
cage
an Italian bicycle component company
Campagnolo
American bicycle-component company and originator of the threadless headset
Cane Creek, originally Dia-Compe USE
a cable-operated rim brake consisting of two opposing arms pivoting on frame- or fork- mounted posts. Pads mounted to each brake arm are pressed against the braking surface of the rim via cable tension from the lever
cantilever brake
ball bearings encased in a cartridge consisting of steel inner and outer rings, ball retainers, and sometimes bearing covers
cartridge bearing
a group of cogs that mounts on a freehub; also, a group of chainrings that mounts on a spiderless crankarm
cassette
a series of metal links held together by pins and used to transmit energy from the crank to the rear wheel
chain
a single unit of a bicycle chain consisting of four plates with a roller on each end and in the center
chain link
a dragging of the chain by the chainring past the release point at the bottom of the chainring. The chain can be dragged upward until it is jammed between the chainring and the chainstay
chain suck
a flat piece of steel, usually attached to two lengths of chain. This tool is used to remove the rear cogs on a freehub or freewheel
chain whip or chain wrench
an imaginary line connecting the center of the middle chainring with the middle of the cogset. Should be straight and parallel to the vertical plane passing through the center of the bicycle. Measured as the distance from the center of the seat tube to the center of the middle chainring.
Chainline
a multiple-tooth sprocket attached to the right crankarm
chainring
a tool used to secure the chainring nuts while tightening the chainring bolts
chainring-nut tool
a frame tube on a bicycle connecting the bottom-bracket shell to the rear dropout and hence to the rear hub axle
chainstay
a C-shaped or spiral ring that fits in a groove to hold two cylindrical parts together
circlip or Jesus clip, or snapring
a pedal that relies on spring-loaded clips to grip a cleat attached to the bottom of the rider’s shoe without the use of toeclips and straps
clip-in pedal or clipless pedal
a sprocket located on the drive side of the rear hub
cog
a diminishment of the speed of compression of a spring on impact by hydraulic or mechanical means
compression damping
a threaded conical nut that serves to hold a set of bearings in place and also provides a smooth surface upon which those bearings can roll. can also refer to the conical member of any cup-and-cone ball-bearing system
cone
the distance between the centerline of the bottom-bracket spindle and the centerline of the pedal axle
crank length
a lever attached at the bottom-bracket spindle and to the pedal used to transmit a rider’s energy to the chain
crankarm
a bolt attaching the crank to the bottom-bracket spindle on a cotterless drivetrain
crankarm anchor bolt
an assemble that includes a bottom bracket, two crankarms, a chainring set, and accompanying nuts and bolts
crankset
a flat, open-end wrench head with a square hole at its base to accept the drive stub of a socket wrench or torque wrench
crowfoot wrench or socket or crow’s foot
a cup-shaped bearing surface that surrounds the bearings in a bottom bracket, headset, or bug. Also, the upper part of the shaft-eyelet assembly of a rear shock (the big end of the shock)
cup
a mechanism in a suspension fork or shock that reduces the speed of the spring’s oscillation movement
damper or damping cartridge
a reduction in speed of the oscillation of a spring, as in a suspension fork or shock
damping
a gear-changing device that allows a rider to move the chain from one cog or chainring to another while the bicycle is in motion
derailleur
a metal extension of the right rear dropout through which the rear derailleur is mounted to the frame
derailleur hanger
model name of Shimano electronic-shifting components
Di2
a traditional bicycle frame shape
diamond frame
a brake that stops the bike by squeezing brake pads attached to a caliper mounted to the frame or fork against a circular disc attached to the wheel
disc brake
a difference in spoke tension on the two sides of the rear wheel
dish or wheel dish
a centering of the rim in the frame or fork by adjustment of spoke tension in a wheel
dishing or wheel dishing
a tool to check the centering of a wheel rim relative to the axle ends
dishing tool
a two-chainring drivetrain setup (as opposed to a three or triple setup)
double
a frame tube that connects the head tube and bottom-bracket shell together
down tube
a flat-ended rod used for driving out bearings and bushings
drift
the crankarms, chainrings, bottom bracket, front derailleur, chain, rear derailleur, and freewheel or cassette
drivetrain
the difference in height between two parts; a terrain discontinuity you may or may not want to ride off; something not to do with your tools
drop
slots in the fork and rear triangle where the wheel axles attach
dropouts or fork ends or fork tips
a telescoping seatpost whose length can be adjusted on the fly while riding
dropper post
a manufacturer of spokes, other bicycle components, and tools
DT, DT Swiss
a protective cap keeping dirt out of a part
dust cap
a cone-shaped, hardened-steel tool with coarse, reverse threads to remove broken bolts. A hole is drilled into the center of the bolt, and this is inserted into the hole, and then turned with a tap handle counterclockwise
easy-out
a urethane spring sometimes used in suspension forks, rear shocks, suspension seatposts, and saddles
elastomer or MCU
a system for shifting gears on a bicycle in which the power to shift comes not from the pull on a cable but from an electric signal turning a servo motor on and off
electronic shifting
a rotation of the bike and rider forward over the front wheel
endo
a bolt that when tightened pulls a wedge up inside or alongside the part into which the bold is anchored to provide outward pressure and secure said part inside a hollow surface. Found inside quill stems and some handlebar-end plugs and shifters
expander bold
a part threaded onto an expander bolt. threaded down its center axis and is usually cylindrical in shape and truncated along an inclined plane or conical in shape and truncated parallel to its base
expander wedge or wedge
a cap for the end of cable housing
ferrule
a nonadjustable cup of the bottom bracket located on the drive side of the bottom bracket
fixed cup
largest diameter of the hub, where the spoke heads are anchored
flange
a part that attaches the front wheel to the frame
fork
a crosspiece connecting the fork legs to the steering tube
fork crown
perpendicular offset distance of the front axle from an imaginary extension of the steering-tube centerline
fork rake or offset or rake or wheel offset
the distance measured on the ground between the vertical line passing through the center of the front-hub axle (the center of the wheel contact patch) and the extension of the centerline of the head tube
fork trail or trail
a bicycle-suspension manufacturer that makes forks, rear shocks, and dropper posts. Parent company of RaceFace and Easton.
Fox
a central structure of a bicycle to which all of the parts are attached
frame
a rear hub that has a built-in freewheel mechanism to which the rear cogs are attached
freehub or cassette hub
a mechanism through which the rear cogs are attached to the rear wheel on a derailleur bicycle. locked to the hub when turned in the forward direction, but it is free to spin backward independently of the hub’s movement, thus allowing the rider to stop pedaling and coast as the bicycle is moving forward
freewheel
a traditional non indexed shifter attached to the frame or handlebar. cable tension is maintained by a combination of friction washers and bolts
friction shifter
the head tube, top tube, down tube, and seat tube of a bike frame
front triangle or main triangle
FSA
Full Speed Ahead - a manufacturer of bike components
the lowest gear, generally of a triple drive-train. in this gear, the chain is on the largest rear cog and the innermost (usually of three) front chainrings
granny gear
a twist shifter of the SRAM Corp that is integrated with the handlebar grip of a mountain bike. Shifts gears by twisting
Grip Shift
a curved tube, connected to the fork via the stem, that the rider holds in order to turn the fork and thus steer the bicycle. The brake levers and shift levers are attached to it.
handlebar
an acute angel formed by the centerline of the head tube and the horizontal
head angle
a bearing system, consisting of a number of separate cylindrical parts installed into the head tube and onto the steering tube, that secures the fork and allows it to spin and swivel in the frame
headset
the front tube of the frame through which the steering tube of the fork passes. Attached to the top tube and down tube and contains the headset.
head tube
a hexagonal wrench that fits inside a hexagonal hole in the head of a bolt
hex key or allen key or allen wrench
the central part of a wheel to which the spokes are anchored and through which the wheel axle passes
hub
a disc, drum, or coaster brake that stops the wheel with friction applied to a braking surface attached to the hub
hub brake
a type of brake that uses fluid pressure to move the brake pads against the braking surface
hydraulic brake
a French tire company
Hutchinson
a shifter that clicks into fixed positions as it moves the derailleur from gear to gear
index shifter
a valve on the compression-damping system on a front or rear shock that opens upon hard impacts and otherwise stays closed, in order to distinguish between bump forces and pedaling forces and prevent the shock from bobbing up and down during pedaling. Similar to a lockout lever, but unlike a lockout, it allows the shock to still be fully active for bump absorption while engaged.
inertia valve
on a telescoping suspension fork, a tube, usually clamped into the fork crown, except in the case of an upside-down fork, that slides in and out of the larger-diameter outer leg as the fork compresses and rebounds.
inner leg, upper tube, inner, stanchion
a headset in which the bearing seats are integrated into the head tube rather than requiring separate headset cups, and the bearings are completely concealed within the head tube
integrated headset
a circular, cog-shaped pulley attached to the rear derailleur that is used to guide, apply tension to, and laterally move the chain from rear cog to rear cog
jockey wheel or jockey pulley
an all-terrain tire used on mountain bikes
knobby tire
amount the rear axle moves vertically on a full-suspension bike with a given amount of movement of the shock shaft
leverage ratio
a pivoting steel hook on a V-brake arm that the cable-guide “noodle” hooks into
link
a notched or toothed washer that serves to hold surrounding nuts and washers in position
lock washer
a nut that serves to hold the bearing adjustment in a headset, hub, or pedal
locknut
a valve on the compression-damping system on a front or rear shock that prevents the shock from compressing. Modern shocked usually have a blowoff system that will allow the compression-damping circuit to open with a large impact to prevent the shock from being damaged on bit hits while this is engaged
lockout
a large circular locknut. on a bottom bracket, it is the outer ring that tightens the adjustable cup against the face of the bottom-bracket shell. on a rear shock, this is the threaded ring that tightens the coil spring on a coil-over shock or is used to secure the fore-aft position of the shock body on some air shocks. On a freehub, this holds the cogs on. On a CenterLock disc brake-compatible hub, this secures the rotor to the hub shell.
lockring
a style of rear derailleur pioneered by shimano in which the return spring is connected to the opposite vertices of the rear derailleur’s parallelogram linkage elements compared to the setup for a standard rear derailleur. This arrangement results in the derailleur’s moving to the low-gear position (the largest, most inboard rear cog) when the cable tension is removed, rather than to the high-gear position (the smallest, most outboard cog), as on a standard rear derailleur
low normal or rapid rise
a German brake company
Magura
an American suspension-fork and component company, subsidiary of Answer Products
Manitou
an Italian Suspension-fork and component company
Marzocchi
a piston chamber at the lever end of a hydraulic brake system
master cylinder
a detachable link that holds the chain together. Can be opened by hand without a chain tool
master link
a French wheel and bicycle-component company
Mavic
a tool for measuring the outside dimensions of an object or the inside dimensions of a hole by means of movable jaws
measuring caliper
a French tire company
Michelin
a bolt that mounts a part to a frame, fork, or component
mounting bolt, pivot bolt
a steel cylindrical cartridge with rod-shaped rollers arranged coaxially around the inside walls
needle bearing
a thin nut designed to receive the end of a spoke and seat it in the holes of a rim. a flared typ of a hydraulic caliper bleed fitting onto which a bleed hose can be attached
nipple
a curved cable-guide pipe on a V-brake arm that stops the cable housing and directs the cable to the cable anchor bolt on the opposite arm
noodle
in a telescoping suspension fork, a tube, often cast from magnesium and attached to the front-wheel axle, except in the case of an upside-down fork, that slides up and down over the smaller-diameter inner leg as the fork compresses and rebounds.
outer leg, casting, fork casting, outer, or slider
a platform the foot pushes on to propel the bicycle
pedal
an overlapping of the toe with the front wheel while pedaling
pedal overlap, toe overlap, or toeclip overlap
a highly damped low-speed compression circuit on a rear shock or suspension fork designed to reduce pedal-induced bobbing as well as keep the suspension high during braking and while riding berms and dips
pedal platform
the lateral distance between the feet while pedaling. the distance measured between the two vertical planes defined by the inboard side of each shoe at the first metatarsal as they move around the pedaling circle
pedaling stance
a V-shaped wrench with two tip-end pins. the pin spanner is often used for tightening the adjustable cup of the bottom bracket or other lockrings
pin spanner
a pin about which a part rotates through a bearing or bushing. found on brakes, derailleurs, and rear-suspension systems
pivot
a bolt on which another part pivots
pivot bolt
a thin, metal tire valve that uses a locking nut to prevent air from escaping from the inner tube or tire
Presta valve
the distance from the outer face of one crankarm at the pedal hole to the plane formed by the outer face of the other crankarm at the pedal hole as it spins. measured normal to this plane.
Q factor
a tightening lever and shaft used to attach a wheel to the fork or rear dropouts without using axle nuts; a quick-opening lever and shaft pinching the seatpost inside the seat tube in lieu of a wrench-operated bolt; a quick cable release on a brake; a fixing mechanism that can be quickly opened and closed as on a brake cable or wheel axle; any anchor bolt that can be quickly opened and closed by a lever
quick-release
a vertical tube of a stem for a threaded headset system that inserts into the fork steering tube. It has an expander wedge and bolt inside to secure the stem to the steering tube
quill
a stem with a quill to insert inside a threaded fork steering tube
quill stem
a circular track on which bearings roll freely
race, bearing race
A Canadian bicycle-component company
Race Face
an indexing shifter manufactured by Shimano for use on mountain bikes with two separate levers operating each shift cable
Rapidfire shifter
a rear part of the bicycle frame that includes the seatstays, the chainstays, and the seat tube
rear triangle
a diminishing of speed of return of a spring by hydraulic or mechanical means
rebound damping
an outer hoop of a wheel to which the tire is attached
rim
a handlebar with a double bend on each side of the stem clamp so that the grips are higher than the stem
riser bar
an American bicycle and bicycle-component company
Ritchey
an American suspension-fork and component company, subsidiary of SRAM
RockShox
a brake system using pulleys and a cam to force the brake pads against the rim surface
roller-cam brakes
a platform made of leather and/or plastic upon which the rider sits
saddle, seat
the amount the front or rear shock compresses with the rider’s weight static on the bike. Its purpose is to preload the shock so that it forces the rear wheel down into the ground when the bike is unweighted after a bump, thus increasing tire contact and traction in rough terrain
sag or ride height
a high-pressure air valve with a spring-loaded air-release pin inside. Found on some bicycle inner tubes and tubeless tires, on air-sprung suspension forks and rear shock, and on automobile tires and tubes
Schrader valve
a bearing enclosed in a protective seal in an attempt to keep contaminants out
sealed bearing
an acute angle formed by the centerline of the seat tube and the horizontal
seat angle
an intersection of the seat tube, top tube, and seatstays
seat cluster
a frame tube into which the seatpost is inserted
seat tube
a tubular member supporting, securing, and allowing height adjustment of the saddle
seatpost
a frame tube on a bicycle connecting the seat tube or the rear shock to the rear dropout and hence to the rear hub axle
seatstay
a thin element inserted between two parts to ensure that they are the proper distance apart. can be a thin washer and can be used to space a disc-brake caliper away from the frame or fork or to space a bottom-bracket cup away from the frame’s bottom-bracket shell. can also be a thin piece of metal used to make a seatpost fit more tightly inside the seat tube. can also be small, thin discs found inside suspension forks and rear shocks to control suspension movement by permitting or hindering passage of hydraulic fluid through an orifice
shim
a Japanese bicycle-component company and maker of XTR, XT, Saint, LX, and STX component lines as well as Rapidfire, SPD, and STI
Shimano
a trail with a single furrow made for feet or two-wheeled vehicle, as opposed to a road or doubletrack, which has a track for each pair of wheels
singletrack
a long rod; a hub quick-release; a shaft passing through a stack of elastomer bumpers in a suspension fork
skewer
a piston chamber in the caliper of a hydraulic brake
slave cylinder
a brand of tire sealant consisting of chopped fibers in a liquid medium injected inside a tire or inner tube to flow to and fill small air leaks
Slime
What type of pliers are mentioned?
Needle-nose pliers
What tools are included for metric measurements?
Folding metric hex keys
What types of wrenches are specified?
Metric open-end/box-end wrenches
How many standard screwdrivers are recommended?
One of each size: small, medium, and large
How many Phillips-head screwdrivers are suggested?
One small and one medium
What is the recommended quantity of plastic tire levers?
Set of three
What should be carried as spare tubes?
At least two spare tubes of the same size and valve type as those on your bike
What is advised for coating the inside of tires?
Container of talcum powder
What is a precaution regarding talcum powder?
Do not inhale this stuff
What cleaning supply is mentioned?
Rubbing alcohol
What tool is necessary for shock adjustment?
Shock pump
What type of patch kit is recommended?
One that comes with sandpaper, not a metal scratcher
What type of patches should the patch kit include?
Patches with soft orange rubber backing to the black rubber
How often should you check the glue in your patch kit?
At least every year and a half
What is a practical item to take on rides for repairs?
A little packet of glueless patches
True or False: Glueless patches work as well as standard patches.
False
What is a 6-inch adjustable wrench also known as?
Crescent wrench
What types of pliers are recommended?
Regular and needle-nose
List the sizes included in a set of metric hex keys.
- 2.5mm
- 3mm
- 4mm
- 5mm
- 6mm
- 8mm
- 10mm
What are folding sets of hex keys known for?
Keeping wrenches organized but not strong enough for larger sizes
Which sizes of metric open-end/box-end wrenches are included?
- 7mm
- 8mm
- 9mm
- 10mm
- 13mm
- 14mm
- 15mm
- 17mm
What is a 15mm pedal wrench characterized by?
Thinner and longer than a standard wrench, thicker and stronger than a cone wrench
What tool is used for disconnecting and reconnecting bike chains?
Chain tool
What is the purpose of a chain-elongation gauge?
To monitor the condition of the chain
What should a spoke wrench match in size?
The size of the nipples on the bike’s wheels
What are pad spacers used for?
To prevent pushing the pads out too far when the wheel is out
What type of grease is recommended for bicycle maintenance?
Bicycle grease
What should be avoided when using automotive grease?
Using it on suspension forks, shocks, or in twist shifters
What type of chain lubricant is preferred?
Nonaerosol drip bottle
What is the use of rubbing alcohol in bike maintenance?
For cleaning disc-brake pads, rotors, and installing handlebar grips
What is a recommended quantity of rags for bike maintenance?
A lot of rags
What are the two types of valve mentioned?
- Presta
- Schrader
What additional item is needed for air-sprung suspension forks or rear shocks?
Shock pump
What is important about a shock pump’s head?
It should have a no-leak head
What does Level 2 Tool Kit include beyond Level 1?
- Portable bike stand
- Shop apron
- Tire pressure gauge
Why is a tire pressure gauge preferred over a pump gauge?
It is more accurate for getting pressure exact
What is recommended for organizing a workspace for bike maintenance?
Creating a well-organized workspace with a shop bench
What is a hacksaw used for?
Removing snaprings from suspension components
A hacksaw with a fine-toothed blade is effective for precise cuts.
What are cone wrenches used for?
Loose-bearing hubs
Standard sizes include 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, and 16mm.
What sizes are included in a set of metric socket wrenches?
7mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm, 13mm, 14mm, and 15mm
These sizes cover a wide range of bicycle components.
What is the purpose of a crank puller?
Removing crankarms
It is particularly useful for old, three-piece cranksets.
What tool is needed for removing cogs from the rear hub?
Cassette lockring tool
This tool is essential for maintaining the drivetrain.
What is a chain whip used for?
Holding cogs while loosening the cassette lockring
It prevents the cog from spinning during removal.
What type of grease is specifically mentioned for Grip Shift shifters?
Silicone-based grease
This type of grease is recommended for optimal performance.
Which tool is used for both Schrader and Presta valves?
Valve core removers
These are essential for tire service and shock maintenance.
What is the function of a bench vise in bike maintenance?
Securing components while working on them
Especially useful for working on rear shocks.
Fill in the blank: A _______ is used for tightening or loosening a chainring bolt.
Chainring-nut tool
This tool holds the nut in place during the process.
What type of tool is needed for external-bearing bottom brackets?
Oversize splined wrench
This tool is necessary for removing the cups.
True or False: Snapring pliers are used for threaded bottom brackets.
False
They are intended for unthreaded bottom brackets with snapring service.
What is the purpose of tire sealant?
Setting up tubeless tires or installing in inner tubes for puncture protection
It helps maintain air pressure and prevents flat tires.
What type of hammer is recommended for bike maintenance?
Medium ball-peen hammer
Useful for various tasks requiring a striking tool.
What is assembly paste used for?
Especially for seatposts
It helps in preventing seizing and aids in future disassembly.
What tool is used for cutting coaxial shift cable housing?
Cable cutter
This tool allows for clean cuts without crushing the housing.
What type of pliers are referred to as Channellock pliers?
Adjustable pliers
They are useful for gripping and turning various components.
Fill in the blank: A _______ is needed for freeing stuck parts.
Penetrating oil or ammonia
These substances help to loosen rusted or seized components.
What items are essential for cleaning a dirty machine?
- Tape
- Safety glasses
- Rubber dish gloves or cheap latex gloves
- Buckets
- Large brushes
- Sponges
- Degreaser
- Dish soap or bike cleaner
These items help ensure that a machine is cleaned effectively and safely.
What is the primary function of a parts-washing tank?
To clean bike parts using an environmentally safe degreaser
Used solvent must be disposed of responsibly.
What tool is needed to free stuck parts and press in others?
Large bench-mounted vise
What type of pliers are necessary for bike maintenance?
Master link pliers
What is a shop chain tool used for?
Works on 6-speed to 12-speed chains
What tool is used for installing headset cups?
Headset press
What is the purpose of a fork-crown race punch?
For installing the fork-crown race of the headset
What does the headset cup remover rocket do?
Removes headset cups and PF30 bottom brackets
What is the function of a PF24 bottom-bracket-remover rocket?
Removes smaller bottom brackets
Fill in the blank: A _______ installation tool is used for threadless headsets.
Star-nut
What type of hammer should be used to prevent damage to parts?
Soft hammer (rubber, plastic, or wooden mallet)
What sizes of large sockets are necessary for working on suspension forks?
- 22mm
- 24mm
- 26mm
- 28mm
What is the purpose of torque wrenches in bike maintenance?
To check proper bolt tightness and prevent damage
What types of drive bits are recommended for bike maintenance?
- Torx
- Metric hex square-drive bits
- ¼-inch hex drive bits in various types
What is the Park IR-1 or IR-1.2 internal wire routing kit used for?
To route shift and brake cables through the frame
What sizes of metric taps are included in the recommended set?
- 5mm x 0.8mm
- 6mm x 1mm
- 10mm x 1mm
What is the function of a truing stand?
For truing and building wheels
What are through-axle adapters used for?
To hold a through-axle wheel securely while truing
What is the purpose of a dishing tool?
To check that a wheel is properly centered
What tools are necessary for spoke maintenance?
- Spoke wrenches of all sizes
- Specialty spoke wrench for splined or oversized nipples
What does a rotor truing gauge do?
Checks rotor alignment
What is the function of rotor-alignment forks?
For straightening out-of-true disc-brake rotors
What is needed for bleeding hydraulic brakes?
A bleed kit
What is the purpose of a brake bleed block?
To keep pistons pushed back while bleeding disc brakes
It can be substituted with plastic grooved blocks for clamping hydraulic hose.
What tool is used for adjusting Mavic hubs?
Pin spanner
What is a telescoping or articulating magnet used for?
To pick up dropped parts or small tools
What is a chain keeper used for?
Attaches to dropout to run chain over for cleaning drivetrain with wheel off
What is the function of a Vise Whip or chain whip?
For disassembling old-style 6- and 7-speed cogsets or freewheels
What types of freewheel removers are mentioned?
For Shimano, Sachs, and Sun-Tour freewheels
What two qualities are emphasized for successful bike repair?
Patience and willingness to work and rework jobs
What spare parts should you have on hand for bike repairs?
- Several sizes of ball bearings
- Zip-ties
- Spare cables
- Cable housing
- Cable-end caps
- Spare tires
- Tubes
- Chains
- Master links
- Cogsets
What items are necessary if working on suspension forks, rear shocks, and hydraulic brakes?
Spare hoses, seals, and fittings
What is carbon-grip compound used for?
For clamping carbon seat-posts and handlebars
List some various fluids required for certain bike jobs.
- Hydraulic brake fluids
- Hydraulic suspension oils and greases
- Threadlock fluid
- Titanium antiseize compound
- Outboard-motor gear oil
- Specialty freehub lubricants
What type of bike stand is recommended for serious bike mechanics?
Euro-style race team mechanic’s bike stand
What does the Euro-style mechanic’s bike stand support?
The bottom bracket and clamps either the fork ends or the rear dropouts without the wheel on
What is the purpose of an antitwist tool?
Preventing twisting bladed (aero) spokes during truing
What does a spoke tension gauge check for?
Proper spoke tension
What is the function of a hydraulic brake-hose cutter?
Getting an optimal square cut and reducing the likelihood of fluid leaks
What is a heavy-duty shop-grade headset press used for?
Pressing in headsets and bottom brackets into threadless bottom-bracket shells
True or False: A slotted spoke holder is used to prevent flat spokes from rotating during wheel truing.
True
What tool is used to remove headset fork-crown races without damaging the fork crown?
Park universal fork-crown race remover
Fill in the blank: A _______ is used for cutting handlebars off straight without a hacksaw.
Tubing cutter
What does a caliper with vernier, dial, or digital measurement measure?
Parts in order to optimize function
What is the purpose of a BB30 reamer?
Perfecting the fit of bearings in BB30 shell
What do splined bottom bracket sockets assist with?
Tightening cups with a torque wrench
What is the significance of using a crowfoot wrench at 90 degrees to the torque wrench handle?
It does not significantly change the torque setting
What is the purpose of dropout-alignment tools?
Aligning dropouts or fork ends
What does a cog-wear indicator gauge determine?
If cogs are worn out
What are feeler gauges used for?
Precisely adjusting postmount disc brakes
What is an air compressor with a quick-connect fitting used for?
Overhauling disc brakes and seating tubeless tires
What does a bent-shaft spoke nipple screwdriver achieve?
Faster spoke lacing when building wheels
What is the use of an electric drill with a drill bit set in bike maintenance?
Various drilling tasks
What tool delivers fast and accurate inflation?
Air compressor
Which calipers are used to upgrade Park TS-2 or 2.2 for 29-inch wheels?
Large wheel truing-stand calipers (Park #238K)
What is the purpose of truing-stand extensions with integrated through-axle adapters?
Upgrade Park TS-2 or 2.2 for truing super-tall wheels or fat-bike wheels
What does a dial indicator attach to for rotor alignment checks?
Rotor-truing gauge
What tool is used to monitor chain length over time?
Digital chain-elongation gauge
What does Pedro’s Chain Checker Plus isolate?
Pin wear to ensure measurement of chain elongation
What is the purpose of a bearing-press kit?
Installing cartridge bearings in hubs, rear-suspension pivots, and bottom brackets
What does a bearing-extractor kit do?
Removes bearings from blind holes
What is a wiper-seal driver used for?
Installing wiper seals atop suspension-fork lower legs
What tool is used for freeing the damper shaft from the lower fork leg?
Fox damper-removal tool
What does a DU-bushing tool do?
Removes and installs bushings in rear-shock eyelets
What are fixed-torque drivers preset for?
4 N-m, 5 N-m, or 6 N-m
True or False: Fixed-torque drivers ratchet freely when their torque setting is reached.
True
What is the purpose of the Shimano TL-EW02 tool?
For plugging in and unplugging Di2 electronic-shift wires
Di2 refers to Shimano’s electronic shifting system.
What is the function of the Shimano TL-FDM905 tool?
To replace the front-derailleur cage
The front-derailleur cage can be purchased as a separate part.
What do the Shimano TL-FC35 and TL-FC17 tools help with?
Crank removal and bearing preload adjustment for XTR FC-M970 crank
These tools are specialized for specific Shimano crank models.
What are easy outs used for?
Removing broken screws and rear shock spacers
Easy outs are also known as spiral-flute screw extractors.
What is a recommended practice for setting up your home shop?
Keep the area clean and well organized
A clean shop enhances the enjoyment of working on bikes.
What are effective ways to organize tools in a home shop?
Hanging tools on a pegboard, placing them in bins or trays
Organization helps in quickly finding tools, making work easier.
What items should you carry while riding?
Chain tool, small screwdriver, compact hex key set, Torx 725 wrench, open-end wrenches, multitool, tire pump, patch kit, tire levers, shock pump, plastic pad spacers, spare tube, spare derailleur hanger, spare chain links, identification, cell phone, cash
These items ensure you’re prepared for various mechanical issues on the trail.
Fill in the blank: A good multitool can replace some or all of the preceding items but with less _______.
weight and bulk.
What should you check about your patch kit?
Make sure the glue has not dried up
It is recommended to check at least every year and a half.
Why should you carry plastic pad spacers if your bike has hydraulic disc brakes?
To prevent the pistons from coming out too far if the brake lever is squeezed
This is important if the bike needs to be transported with the wheels off.
What should you ensure about your spare tube?
The valve matches your bike and pump
Keeping the tube in a plastic bag helps prevent deterioration.
True or False: You should carry a spare derailleur hanger that fits your frame in case of a crash.
True.
What should you carry for cash while riding?
For obvious reasons, and as a temporary patch for sidewall cuts in tires.
What is a useful item to keep your hands clean during biking?
Wet wipes or latex gloves
These items help maintain hygiene while on the road.
What should you carry for long or multiday biking trips?
Proper amounts of food, water, and extra clothes
These are essential for sustaining energy and comfort during extended trips.
What tool is sized to your bike’s spoke nipples?
Spoke wrench
A necessary tool for wheel maintenance.
What innovative spare part can be used for emergency repairs on a long ride?
Folding spoke made from Kevlar
This lightweight spoke is designed for durability and convenience.
What is another essential spare part to carry on long trips?
Another spare tube
Having an extra tube can save time and hassle in case of a flat tire.
What is a sealant-filled quick aerosol inflator used for?
To rehabilitate a tube or tubeless tire with a slow leak
This tool allows for quick repairs without needing to replace the tube immediately.
What type of lubricant is recommended for bike chains?
Small plastic bottle of chain lube
Regular lubrication helps maintain the bike’s performance.
What is the purpose of carrying a small tube of grease?
To lubricate various bike components
Grease is essential for maintaining parts that experience friction.
What tool is useful for pedal maintenance?
Compact 15mm pedal wrench
This tool is necessary unless the pedals don’t have wrench flats.
What can pliers be used for during bike repairs?
Numerous purposes
Pliers are versatile tools for gripping and manipulating various parts.
What can wire and/or a small bungee cord be used for?
All kinds of things
These items provide flexibility for securing gear or making temporary fixes.
What is duct tape often compared to?
The Force
It has both a light side and a dark side, symbolizing its versatility and strength.
Why should you carry more money or its plastic equivalent on a biking trip?
It can get you out of lots of scrapes
Having cash or cards allows for purchases in emergencies.
What is the purpose of carrying matches on a long biking trip?
In case you might be stranded overnight
Matches can be used for warmth or cooking food.
What type of blanket is recommended for emergencies?
Lightweight, aluminized, folding emergency blanket
This blanket provides insulation and can be compactly stored.
What type of gear should be included for rain protection?
Rain gear
Proper rain gear keeps you dry and comfortable during inclement weather.
What is a satellite communicator used for?
Sends and receives texts and emails, sends SOS signals, receives weather forecasts, and allows tracking
Devices like the Garmin InReach enhance safety in remote areas.
What is the recommended type of headlight for biking?
Lightweight unit that clips onto the handlebar or a headlamp
An extra battery for the headlight is advisable for longer rides.
What is a small flashlight useful for during biking?
To help find things in the dark if your headlight dies
A compact LED flashlight is practical for emergencies.
What is essential to take along for a bike-centered vacation?
Level 1 Tool Kit, headset wrenches, duct tape, and sandpaper
These items prepare you for various bike maintenance needs.
Why is it essential to check your bike before riding?
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 basic maintenance skills should a cyclist have?
Ability to take the wheels off and put them back on
This skill is crucial for transporting the bike and dealing with issues like flat tires.
What is the most important aspect of bike maintenance mentioned?
Keeping the chain and a few other parts clean
Clean components enhance the enjoyment of each ride.
What are the three cleaning and maintenance procedures mentioned?
- Preride inspection
- Mechanical work
- Basic cleaning
These procedures are fundamental for smooth bike operation.
What tools are needed for the maintenance work in this chapter?
No special tools beyond level 1
Basic tools are sufficient for performing the maintenance tasks.
What should you check regarding quick-release levers or axle nuts?
Ensure they are tight
They secure the front and rear hub axles to the dropouts.
How can you check the brake pads for wear?
For disc brakes, look into the caliper slot; for rim brakes, check the molded-in grooves
The pad material should be at least the thickness of a dime.
What should you verify about the brake mounts?
Ensure they are securely mounted and all bolts are tight
This applies to both disc and rim brakes.
What should happen when you squeeze the brake levers with rim brakes?
Pads should bring flat against the rims without hitting the tires
For disc brakes, pads should contact the rotor.
True or False: Performing a preride inspection can help avoid parts failure.
True
Regular inspections are crucial for maintaining bike safety.
Fill in the blank: Keeping the _______ clean will enhance enjoyment of each ride.
chain
Regular cleaning of key components is important for bike maintenance.
What should you check for when spinning the wheels?
Look for wobbles along the rims and ensure rims do not rub on brake pads
If a tire wobbles excessively, it may not be fully seated in the rim.
What is the proper tire pressure range for most mountain bike tires?
Between 30 and 60 pounds per square inch (psi)
Tubeless tires can run well below 30 psi.
What is the recommended tire pressure for fat-bike tires?
5-8 psi, with pressures as low as 2 psi for riding in snow
What should you check for on the tires?
Excessive wear, cracking, or gashes
How often should the chain be replaced on a mountain bike?
About every 500 to 1,000 miles of off-road riding or every 2,000 miles of paved riding
What should you ensure about the handlebar and stem?
They are tight and the stem is aligned with the front tire
What indicates smooth gear shifting?
The chain should not skip or shift by itself and each click of the shifter moves the chain over one sprocket
What should you check the chain for?
Rust, dirt, stiff links, or noticeable signs of wear
What should you do when applying the front brake and pushing the bike?
Check that the headset is tight and does not make clunking noises
What is required for transporting a mountain bike easily?
Removing the front wheel
What are the mechanisms used to remove the front wheel?
Hub quick-release skewer, through-axle mechanism, bolt-on skewer, axle nuts
What is a crucial step when dealing with hydraulic disc brakes?
Do not squeeze the lever when there is neither a disc nor a travel spacer between the pads
What do travel spacers do in hydraulic disc brakes?
Keep the brake pistons from traveling too far
How do most rim brakes allow the tire to pass?
They have a mechanism to release the brake arms
Fill in the blank: The chain should be clean and _______.
lubricated
True or False: The chain should be replaced more frequently on paved riding than off-road riding.
False
What are V-brakes also known as?
Sidepull cantilevers
V-brakes are a type of rim brake commonly used on bicycles.
How are V-brakes released?
By pulling the end of the curved cable-guide tube (noodle) out of the horizontal link atop one of the brake arms while holding the link or squeezing the pads against the rim
This action allows the brake to disengage from the rim.
What is the method for releasing most cantilever brakes?
By pulling the enlarged head of the straddle cable out of a notch in the top of the brake arm while holding the pads against the rim
Cantilever brakes are another type of rim brake.
How are roller-cam brakes released?
By pulling the cam down and out from between the two rollers while holding the pads against the rim
Roller-cam brakes are a specific type of rim brake.
What is the release method for many linkage brakes?
Released in the same way as V-brakes or cantilever brakes
Linkage brakes utilize a similar mechanism for disengagement.
What is required to release hydraulic rim brakes?
Detaching the U-shaped brake booster connecting the piston cylinders together, followed by unscrewing or quick-releasing one wheel cylinder
This process is distinct due to the hydraulic system involved.
What is the first step in detaching a wheel with a quick-release skewer?
Pull outward on the quick-release lever to open it
This step is essential for loosening the skewer.
What should be done after opening the quick-release lever?
Unscrew the nut on the opposite end of the skewer’s shaft until both the nut and the head of the skewer clear the fork’s wheel-retention tabs
This ensures the wheel can be safely removed.
What do most mountain bike forks have to retain the wheel?
A wheel-retention system consisting of nubs or bent tabs on the fork ends (dropouts) or an axle washer with a bent tooth hooked into a hole in the dropout
These features prevent the wheel from falling out if the quick-release loosens.
What is the method for removing a wheel with a non-quick-release bolt-on skewer?
Unscrew the skewer with a 5mm hex key until the head and the nut clear the wheel-retention tabs on the dropouts
This method differs from the quick-release system.
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 advantages do through-axles provide over quick-release skewers?
Stiffen the fork against lateral and twisting flex and offer a higher degree of safety against the wheel falling out
How do closed ends of fork dropouts contribute to safety?
They prevent the braking force applied to the hub rotor from pushing the axle out of the dropouts
What improvements does a fork with a through-axle offer?
Improved tracking and steering as well as smoother up-and-down action
What is a necessity for an ‘upside-down’ fork?
A through-axle
Why is a brace not possible with an upside-down fork?
The wheel moves up and down with the inner legs, making it impossible to have a brace between the lower legs
What are the common traits of through-axle systems?
The axle is part of the fork, not the wheel, and all 15mm through-axle hubs have the same inside diameter of bearings
What is the general shape of traditional through-axles?
Resemble a long bolt that clamps into the fork’s dropouts
What are the typical features of the ends of traditional through-axles?
Usually round, but may also be hex-shaped
How do clamp-in through-axles typically secure themselves?
They have a bolt system on the opposite end from the head to draw the ends toward each other
What is the function of pinch bolts in traditional through-axles?
Tighten the dropouts around the ends of the axle once it is fully installed
What is a quick-release through-axle?
A through-axle with a lever on the end to release it
How does the lever on a quick-release through-axle function?
It can be used to screw the axle out of or into the opposite dropout
What does flipping the lever closed on a quick-release through-axle do?
Either expands the axle inside its through-hole to secure it or squeezes the dropouts against the hub-axle ends
True or False: A quick-release through-axle can be as quick to use as a quick-release skewer.
True
