Originally Posted by
engstrom
Stupid question - I don't have a maintenance stand so should I improvise something with a broom handle under the bike seat with both sides of the broom handle held up with a ladder and shelves? Or should I invest in a real stand for the basic stuff I'll be doing? Or is there another way I'm not thinking of to pull the cable away from the downtube while turning the cranks with my other hand?
I went for years without a maintenance stand and finally bought one about 8 years ago. Now I cannot see life without one! Before I loan my stand to friends, I always say, "don't borrow this unless you're prepared to buy one". Once you use it, you'll probably want one. Based on your previous comments and spirit, it seems like you're mechanically inclined and wrenching is in your blood. Think of a stand as another tool.
The stand allows you to work on your bike without having to kneel or stoop down, plus you can pedal the bike and operate the shifting and brakes. This makes it easier to diagnose and fine tune. After every ride, I place my bike (road / mountain) and give everything a quick look over. Personally, if something is convenient, I am more likely to do it.