The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Bicycling is a wonderful way to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and get some exercise. However, one of the most common issues that cyclists face is how to fix a flat on their bicycle tires or other problems with their bike's tires and tubes. It may seem like a daunting task to fix a flat bicycle tire or deal with other tire issues. Actually, it is an easy fix that you can learn to take care of yourself. It will save you money and it will save you time. You won't have to leave your bike or tire at the shop. When you leave it at a bike shop it will be a few days before they can get to it. Learning to fix it yourself means you can get back to riding immediately. Step One - Maintenance The first step in taking care of your bike's tires is to regularly check the tire pressure. Tires that are underinflated can lead to pinch flats. These kinds of flats occur when the tire gets pinched between the rim and the ground, causing a hole in the tube. Overinflated tires can lead to ...

As someone who has ridden a bicycle for over 50 years, I've learned the importance of keeping your bike well-maintained. However, I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the most mechanically inclined person. That's why I rely on my local bike shop for most of my repairs. But there are some basic maintenance tasks that I've learned to do myself over the years, and I'm here to share them with you. Cleaning the bike: A clean bike not only looks better, but it also performs better. Use a bucket of warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean your bike. Pay special attention to the chain, cassette, and derailleur. Use a separate brush to clean the chain and cassette, and then wipe them down with a clean cloth. Once you've finished cleaning, make sure to dry your bike thoroughly to prevent rust Cleaning and lubing the chain: The chain is one of the most important components of your bike, so it's important to keep it clean and well-lubricated....

When Your Wheels Spin Out: Dealing with a Bike Mechanic Mess-Up I am lucky. I have a great bike shop that always does everything it can to make my rides a little better. I have had one issue in 17 years when I went in for a tune up and found out on my ride that the bike was "not right" after my first ride. I returned to the shop and talked to the mechanic and he looked at it and corrected the issue that day. He seemed to appreciate that I came back to talk to him and let him fix the issue without resorting to bad reviews or going to another shop. That is what this post is about. What should you do if you have a similar issue that I did. We trust our local bike shop with our beloved steeds, expecting them to work their magic and send them back purring like well-oiled machines. But what happens when the tune-up turns into a nightmare, and the mechanic's magic touch leaves you with a clunking, grinding, derailed disaster? Fear not, fellow pedal pushers, for there are ways to...

Winter presents a harsh environment for bicycles, with the cold weather, snow, and rain taking a toll on their components and finish. However, winterizing your bicycle can effectively protect it from the elements and ensure its readiness for the spring riding season. This process is straightforward and can be completed in a few hours. By following these simple steps, you can keep your bike running smoothly and safely throughout the winter. Clean Your Bicycle: Begin by thoroughly cleaning your bicycle to remove any accumulated dirt and grime that could lead to rust or corrosion. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the frame, components, and wheels. Rinse the bike thoroughly and dry it off with a clean towel. Lubricate Your Drivetrain: Lubrication is crucial for the drivetrain, including the chain, cassette, and crankset, to reduce wear and tear and protect against rust and corrosion. Choose a lubricant suitable for your riding conditions, opting for wet lubricants in wet and mud...

As a fellow cycling enthusiast, I completely understand the fear that can arise when faced with the possibility of a flat tire. When I first started riding my bike, I was always apprehensive about venturing too far away from home. I was afraid that if I got a flat tire, I wouldn't be able to fix it and would be stranded. But one day, I decided to face my fear and learn how to change a flat tire, and it changed my life. Now, I regularly travel hundreds of miles from home on my bicycle, all by myself, without any fear or hesitation. The truth is, learning how to change a flat tire is one of the most important skills you can have as a cyclist. It's not a matter of if you'll get a flat tire, but when. So, being prepared and knowing how to handle the situation can save you a lot of time, frustration, and even money. I am going to put a couple of options for tire changing kits you can purchase at Amazon down below. Some give you tools that include a mini-pump but I prefer using C...

Bicycle maintenance is not something I do enough. It always ends up making the chore of maintaining my bicycle more difficult but it is just the way I am. I do some of this myself but I also take my bicycle to the local bike shop for more difficult items such as changing cable.  I am going to cover 3 bicycle maintenance items that you really need to stay on top of. The Importance of Cleaning Your Bicycle Chain and How Often to Clean It: I usually put off cleaning my bicycle chain until it starts squeaking too much and then I clean it. I know that I am taking life out of my chain but it is just something I procrastinate about. Having said that, here is why you should clean your bicycle chain and how often you should clean it in order to keep it in good working condition. A bicycle chain is one of the most important components of a bike, as it allows the transfer of power from the pedals to the wheels. However, like any other part of a bike, the chain can become dirty and clogged wit...