rainlax

I started bike commuting last summer and am going to pick it up again now that I've moved. I just asked a question about the suitability of my bike for commuting... and a lot of the answers confused me! My conclusion is that I have no clue about anything bike-related (except how to actually get on and pedal).

So, can anyone recommend a good (very basic) book about bikes and cycling? I think I need something that explains everything from the different parts of a bike, different types of bikes, gears, how to upgrade, things like that.

Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thanks!

bbunk

I don't know what book would be best but there is good information on the web you can get for free. Sheldon Brown has a great site that has a ton of information on it. Park Tools is also a good place to look for information. Maybe someone else can list some books that would be helpful.

https://www.sheldonbrown.com/

https://www.parktool.com/

HauntedMyst

https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Bicyc...2338492&sr=1-1 The Ultimate Bicycle Book! Books like these are good into books.

Abneycat

bbunk's suggestions are good,
Sheldon Brown's website is quite useful, as is Park Tool. I would also suggest Zinn and the art of (mountain or road) bike maintenance. Those books are also quite good, but you need the one for your kind of bike.

Without an investment in tools though, you can't do much with Zinn that you can't do online. I think Sheldon Brown's stuff and Park Tool will get you through quite nicely.

Garfield Cat

Maybe you need to tell us the answers that confused you. Maybe you really don't need a "good bike book" to clarify your questions.

Treker

Consider the library: lots of books on bikes, just read one that piques your interest. Also, consider borrowing past-issues of Bicycling magazine for general interest articles on biking experience, nutrition, gear, training, etc.