The Repair Stand:Where the Rubber Meets the Road

As bicycling advocates, we know that commuting is a great way to let our presence be known and to stay in shape. In order to accomplish this as efficiently as possible, our bicycles must be up to the task. Wheels and tires are ground zero for bike performance.

Flat tires from external sources (glass and road debris) may not always by under our control, but the condition of our wheel components is under our control. When properly inflated to the recommended pressures, tires will not only be more resistant to flats, but will make the bicycle easier to pedal because of the lower rolling resistance.

Tires should be free of cuts in the sidewalls and the tread. The tire needs to be replaced if the chords are frayed on the sidewall or if they are showing through the tread. Also inspect the sidewalls for sign of abrasions by poorly adjusted brakepads contacting the tire. Readjust brakepads if abrasions are minor; readjust brakepads and replace the tire if the chords are cut. Inspect the inner tube next. Make sure that there are no cuts or abrasions at the base of the valve stem. This is caused by underinflation or not installing the tube with the valve stem perpendicular to the rim. If the tube is flat, only repair it if the hole is a pinhole which is not on the seam or if it is a cut less than a quarter of an inch.

The rim strip is the piece of rubber, cloth, or reinforced nylon that separates the inner tube from the heads of the spoke nipple or from the spoke holes in box style rims. It must be in good condition with no cracks or tears and should be directly centered above the heads of the nipples. On U-shaped rims, which include all steel rims and some aluminum rims, the end of the spoke should not protrude above the top of the nipple. If this does occur, file until flush using the serrated edge of a file.

Wheels should be kept in a reasonable state of tension and true. Wheels with broken or loose spokes are more likely to leave you stranded. Basic maintenance pays off with a safer, more comfortable, and more satisfying commute.

Scot is known in Madison racing circles as the "maintenance guru." Ask BFW about Scot's BFW sponsored Bike Maintenance Seminars to be held from late September through October in Madison.