Monday, May 23, 2011

Cassette Sprocket Maintenance Tips


At some time in the life of your cycle your going to have to change the cassette, you can take it to the bike shop, but its better you learn you to do it your self

Replacing a cassette is not a difficult job, but there can be a couple of problems you could come up against if you decide to take on the job yourself.

The Right Tools For The Job

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Buy A Classic Bicycle Tips


Classic and retro bicycles are in huge demand in the present day – just have a look at the listings on eBay and you will see it for yourself. There are lots of benefits to purchasing a vintage bike over a model new one. For starters, you are doing all your half to assist recycle and not create new waste. You may also get really lovely bikes for a fraction of the price of a new one. If an older bike appeals to you, it’s vital that you simply be certain it is in good working situation and that it is value what the vendor is asking for it.

Black Backspin Freestyle Fixie


New visual highlights such as translucent pedals, saddle and grips combined with pedal clips and a low-rise handlebar define the new BMX/Fixed crossover trend. Fixie Inc claims the Backspin isn’t solely about exterior looks: the new 68-wheel-concept combines compact 26in wheel sizes in the smallest frames XS, S and M which feature new proportional frame geometry. This eliminates toe overlap when cornering.

Why Fixie?


What's a "fixie?"
“Fixie" is short for “fixed gear,” which is a slang term for bicycles that have drivetrains with one gear that's fixed to the rear wheel so that you cannot coast and must continue pedaling whenever the bike's moving. Fixies are among the most simple of bicycles because they don't require derailleurs, shifters, double- or triple-chainring cranksets, or, in some circumstances, even brakes.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Fixie Braking Technique

The lean/pedal lock combo will take some work. Photo by Faster panda kill kill on Flickr
Since fixie braking is more involved, you'll need to remain extremely aware of your surroundings. Constantly scanning the road for hazards is ideal while riding through traffic, but you'll have it a little easier while practicing. Try to define an ideal stopping point in your practice area by setting up goal markers like traffic cones. With a definitive "red zone" to work with, you'll be able to practice stopping short of (or even skidding around) obstacles.

Friday, May 6, 2011

Fixie Bike History



Fixed gear bicycles have become the ultimate item in urban chique. Messengers glide effortlessly in and out of traffic in a show of defiance and freedom among lines of cars chained to the grind of the daily commute. Fixie bikes are simple and elegant, with clean lines and a genuine beauty which springs from their lack of complexity, stripped to the bare requirements of pedaling, steering and rolling. And they are becoming more popular as more people discover the joy of riding single speed and fixed gear.

Fixie Chain Maintenance

Basically the chain should be tight enough to engage the sprockets without binding (too tight) , or skipping (too loose).


For maximum forward and reverse pressure control, you want the chain to have a slight ‘pre-load’ against the teeth. You can guestimate this very easily by checking the slack at the center of the chain . It should be about 10 – 15mm.

Be Safe With Your Fixie



A fixed gear bicycle (also called a "fixie" or a "track bike") is a single-speed machine with a fixed drive train, meaning the pedals spin at the same rate as the rear wheel. It is impossible to coast on a fixed gear bike, leading to a different style of riding from traditional free wheel-equipped bikes. Riding a fixed gear bike develops leg strength, pedaling technique and overall riding efficiency as the rider pedals through all kinds of terrain.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Be Safer Cycling To Work Tips



While good cycling technique is a vital part of staying safe on the roads, it isn't the only answer. We asked three cycling advocates what they felt should be done to improve cyclist safety. Here 8 tips for safer cycling.

Keep Your Folding Bike In Maximum Performance



To keep your folding bike operating at maximum efficiency, it’s important to follow a few basic maintenance procedures that will keep you riding safely and help extend your folding bike’s lifespan.