5 Quick Fixes all Bike Owners Should Know

A bike can be an intimidating machine to ride, let alone work on yourself. The fact of the matter is, bike maintenance is something anyone can become versed in, especially when it comes to quick fixes that occur frequently on the road. Save some time and money in the long run by educating yourself with these fix-it videos on tasks you can perform with the tools you carry in your Mopha Tool Roll.

1. Replacing a Tube

There is nothing worse then getting a flat on your way to work or when you are out for quick ride around town.  We’ve got good news! Swapping out a popped tube for a new one can be pretty quick and relatively painless.  Your first time might take some extra fiddling, but this step by step video from Intown Bicycles should help you get back out there, ready to ride:

2. Cleaning and Lubing a Chain

Many serious bike issues can be avoided by taking a few minutes every month or so to keep things running in top shape.  Cleaning and lubing your bike chain is an easy five minute job that will help remove build up from riding, leaving you riding smoother and longer.

3. Removing Quick Release Wheels

This task is less a fix and more an essential skill for every biker to have.  Removing your wheel allows you to store your bike more easily in the off season, fit it in the back of your car if you don’t have a rack, and will also be necessary when performing many maintenance tasks.  This video shows how to remove your back wheel (the more advanced of the two), which should give you more than enough information for the front.

4. Pumping Your Tires

Theoretically, pumping up bike tires seems fairly straight forward, but there are a few small details that can trip you up.  Once you go through the process for the first time with your bike, you should be set from that point forward.  Make sure to take note of what valve type your tubes are, presta or schrader, as this will dictate both the pumps you can use and the process for filling up your tubes.  This video from the University of Oregon’s Outdoor Program goes over both valve types and how to find the appropriate PSI to pump up to:

5. Taping Your Handlebars

One of the best ways to give your bike a quick fresh new look is to replace your bar tape.  Bar tape is used to provide increased grip and comfort for riders.  When you see your tape starting to wear out or rip it may be a good time to think about picking up a new roll to freshen up your ride.  Make sure you experiment with bright colors and alternative styles, there are some really neat leather set ups available on line or in a bike shop near your home that would look great with your EH Tool Roll!

Make sure to keep your tool roll stocked at all times so you are ready for any mishaps you may encounter on your ride.  Now get out there and ride your bike!