Repairs/Maintenance

Simple weekly actions include:

-Oil your chain and gears

-Check tyre pressure

-Check that the brakes work

-Check the batteries in your lights

Also, it is worth giving your bike a yearly thorough service to keep your bike at its best. Most cycle shops offer this service, but shop around to get the best quote. Always remember to ask for student discount.

Repairs

Most of the cycle shops in the 'new bikes' section offer a repair service. It is worth shopping around and getting quotes. The Bike Workshop is particularly recommended for repairs. Always remember to ask for student discount.

Punctures

Some cyclists have never gotten a puncture while others regularly seem to attract them. It is a good idea to know how to fix one as they can be done relatively quickly and easily. A pump and puncture repair kit are essential purchases. For a simple puncture repair guide (may vary depending on repair kit):

1. Release the brake callipers and remove the wheel.

2. Use tyre leavers or your hands to remove the tyre from the wheel.

3. Run your fingers around the inside of the tyre to find anything sharp that may remain.

4. Pump up the inner tube and hold it underwater to find holes. Mark with chalk or pen.

5. Use sandpaper around the hole to prepare the inner tube for the patch.

6. Spread the glue thinly around the hole and WAIT TO DRY.

7. Place patch over the hole and hold firmly in place.

8. Pump up the inner tube lightly and place it inside the tyre.

9. Place the tyre/tube onto the rim, making sure the valve is lined up.

10. Coax the tyre fully onto the rim, use tyre leavers if you struggle.

11. Fully pump up the inner tube and add it back onto the bike.

12. Reattach the brakes and go for a test ride.

Alternatively, carry a spare inner tube and fix the holy one when you get home.

Improve your skills

It is a great idea to improve your own mechanical ability so that you can undertake maintenance yourself and avoid the expense of professional repairs. Options include:

-Books. Books are available such as 'The Bike Book' by Fred Milson (Haynes) and 'Richards 21st Century Bike Book' by Richard Ballantine (Pan). Find them at Bristol Council Libraries.

-Maintenance courses. Maintenance courses are conducted by Lifecycle UK, a Bristol based cycling charity. See their website: www.lifecycleuk.org.uk for more details and bookings.

-Internet sites. A little internet surfing for maintenance tips will go a surprisingly long way!