2015-06-27 at 3:29 AM UTC
I get that this is the Gearheads forum, wasn't sure if this would be a better fit in DIY or here, but what the hell.
Anyway, neither my ten-speed or my BMX are ridable at the moment and I've realized that I've got very little clue how to fix either one. So I want to learn how to fix my bikes.
I'll obviously need some tools, and while I've got a some wrenches and sockets in both metric and standard sizes, I'm sure there are certain specialty tools that make working on bikes a lot easier.
Also, any good recommendations of learning resources? Repair guides or other books, YouTube channels, websites, etc?
The following users say it would be alright if the author of this
post didn't die in a fire!
2015-06-27 at 4:23 PM UTC
get an assortment of allen wrenches
I suck at fixing stuff, so that is the extent of my advice to you.
The following users say it would be alright if the author of this
post didn't die in a fire!
2015-06-28 at 12:13 AM UTC
The following users say it would be alright if the author of this
post didn't die in a fire!
2015-06-28 at 7:19 AM UTC
What's up blah? crazy mike here, it's been a while.
The following users say it would be alright if the author of this
post didn't die in a fire!
2015-06-28 at 8:25 PM UTC
AngryOnion
Big Wig
[the nightly self-effacing broadsheet]
Hi guys,If this kid can't figure out how a bike works I don't know how we are supposed to help him.
2018-06-14 at 6:06 PM UTC
cupocheer
Space Nigga
[unwillingly condescend the dp]
Are they yours, or do they belong to someone else?
2018-06-14 at 6:18 PM UTC
i did bicycle repair course in jail. its pretty simple stuff really.
its surprising how clean bike parts come up using just a toothbrush, soap and water.
.
2018-06-14 at 6:24 PM UTC
Why was this bumped 3 years later.
Thread title made me laugh tho
2 pairs of channel locks, 2 small crescent wrenches, 2 small vise grips, a hex screw driver with a bit box, and a basic metric/standard socket set
for your socket set go stanley. middle of midrange, good price; you can get a double set of metric/standard sockets (3/8" and 1/4" drive) with two ratchets and some extensions for 30 bucks. add a hex-to-1/4" socket adapter for your hex screwdriver and a little frame mount tire pump and you have it all covered
for bonus points get an under-seat bag to keep the crescent wrenches and a spare tube. the handles of the crescent wrenches make good spoons for removing old tires and seating new tires without scraping the bead raw
if you need to adjust spokes TAKE IT TO A REPAIR SHOP. seriously. adjusting spokes sucks ass and if you fuck it up you'll have to buy a new rim for more than the shop would charge for the adjustment
it is always worthwhile to pay a little extra for a rim job
2018-06-30 at 8:33 AM UTC
Buying small motor kits and installing them on cheap bikes, would probably be an excellent way to turn a profit.. Especially if you can sell them in a college town. Motorized or E-bikes are very trendy right now.. Could make for an excellent side hustle. Bonus points if you can customize the bikes appearance.. Either make them all unique, or go for a unified color scheme to promote your business identity.
2018-06-30 at 1:51 PM UTC
joerell
African Astronaut
[twine our circinate supersymmetry]
I raced bikes as a pro in Europe.
First, do you actually want to become a mechanic or only fix 2 specific bikes...big difference. Good bikes need precision tools for longer use...cheap bikes can be fixed or repaired with even basic tools.
How old are the bikes including what brand and name of parts. Do you have just a few problems or many on both bikes. Fixing and repairing on a high end bike makes sense...not so much if you spend $200 on a $50 bike. Or buying Campy or Shimano parts for a cheap bike. So make sure it's worth it...bikes have to be reasonable before you spend money for tools.
Allen keys, wrenches, certain plyers, screw drivers, cutters, air cans, lubricants, proper oils, solving agents, etc., are all eventually needed...therefore is the cost worth it for cheap bikes. If not, save for a better bike and just learn with the older ones...especially if you want to race and compete in the future and buy a bike with proper size for inseams and with a known parts.
I would try road first...mountain second...track last if you're good with road work.
For example...best way to start training European style.
Older track bikes can be found relatively cheap where you just basically have a light frame, single front crank and fixed back gear. Add a back brake and you have a good on road track bike for training like in park circuits and with no hills. It's a strength builder and also good for control since it's only forward motion. Easy to fix...harder to get use to on the road and establish balance. Once you do road bikes become easier to use and control and indoor rollers can be used for more endurance. Speed is an issue with these bikes or training...the faster you go the more control you need and proper usage of the brake without killing yourself. So more isolated parks are better and for cornering.
Some specialty shops have courses and even bike companies or frame builders. Lots of stuff on the net.
