Originally Posted by BlueFire
I recently got a new bike and realize I need to get the initial tune done but am seeking advice on educating myself on how to do it own my own (if not this time, eventually...) I'm a novice to the sport yet am eager to learn as much as possible. Are there any good books, manuals, dvds, etc. that you would recommend that could give me the insight needed to self-tune my bike? ...Perhaps it requires a lot of additional equipment as well as a heap of experience? Still wanna go for it though...
Thanks for your time everyone.
p.s. [I did do a search on the subject yet wasn't able to get what I was looking for.]
This is probably a topic better suited for the Maintenence Forum, but I'll give you some decent advice nonetheless.
Ok, so want to do a 30-day tune-up (or similar). Usually this consists of checking the brake and derailleurs, as well as checking/tightening all the nuts and bolts. I'm going to assume you have a road bike.
Tools you definitely need:
- 4, 5, & 6 mm hex wrenches
- Bike Repair Stand
- Screwdrivers (Flat & Phillips)
- Torque wrench (w/ socket hex attachments, probably 4, 5, & 8 mm)
- 15 mm open wrench, narrow (for pedals)
Tools you might need:
- Metric hex wrenches (besides those above)
- Lubricant (unlikely, since the bike is so new, but it's good to have)
- Socket Hex attachments for torque wrench (some bikes, especially CF bikes, have specific torque ratings for various attachments and fasteners on the bike, and these might require different sized sockets.)
- Solvent for cleaning any crap off your bike (try denatured alcohol)
- Third hand tool (for pulling on cables)
A quick explanation of how to do it: (Note: have someone walk you through it at first...the only way to learn is to practice, though)
1. Check all nuts and bolts. Tighten them down properly, to the specific torque ratings, if specified.
2. Check the brakes. Do they still work as desired? Check how the pads hit the rims. The surfaces should be parallel to the rims when they touch, not at an angle. Make sure nothing is rubbing. Adjust brake lever travel as desired.
3. Check derailleurs (this is the most complicated part...ask for someone to show you, because I can't really explain it correctly without going into a lot of detail) the short explanation is that you want the bike to shift quickly and correctly. But you knew that.
Thats about it. Of course, if you crash or something, the repairs might be more complicated. Check into the maintence forum for more info about truing wheels, replacing tubes/tires, etc.