+1 on new sounds.

A useful trick is to check the "tuning" of your spokes. Take you wheels off and pretend you're playing a harp. Thong, thong, thump, thong... Tighten up the thump spoke with your spoke wrench. While you have your tire against your cheek, check tread and sidewalls for wear.

Know how to adjust your rear derailleur. Biker's counterclockwise tightens the cable.