Nervous about getting your bike out this season because it’s been garaged for so long? The last time you rode it, did it make a weird ticking sound, or did the brakes squeak when you pressed them too hard? This season we want to make sure that you finally get around to “un”garaging your bicycle and getting it where it belongs- on the trails or on the pavement!
Here is a tip from the Cranmore Bike Shop manager, Gregg Ludvigson on how to get your bike from your garage to the great outdoors:
“Basically, it comes down to one simple thing: take the bike out of your garage, pedal it around your driveway, and see how it feels. Listen for anything abnormal and see if anything feels off.”
The first step is really that easy! And I promise, once you get it out for the first time, you’ll be happy you did, and it won’t end up staying in storage.
Gregg, an avid biking enthusiast, also recommends treating your bike like you would your daily driver. “If anything feels off, I highly recommend simply taking it to a professional to give it a look over. Most shops offer a spring check-over, where they can recommend any adjustments, tuning, or repairs that should be done. They can give you a quick estimate on what type of work may be needed to get your bike riding like it's supposed to, and make sure you avoid any major mechanical failures or injury. It really is unfortunate when a minor issue turns into a major one, when it could have been an easy fix.”
Even if nothing jumps out to you as being wrong with your bike, it’s also not a bad idea to get it checked out each year at the start of the season, just like how your car is regularly serviced for an oil change or for an inspection. This is especially true if you’re a frequent cycler who’s putting in the miles!
Through the end of May, you can get $15 off a basic tune, which includes washing and lubricating; adjusting derailleurs, brakes, and shifters; truing wheels, checking air pressure, bottom bracket, headset, and hubs.
If you are interested in getting your bike checked out, a simple check-over at the Cranmore Bike Shop only costs $10. The Cranmore Bike and Repair Shop is now open 5 days a week, Friday – Tuesday. (Yes, even Sundays!).
See you on the trails!
Dylan Henry