The Spoke Curriculum - Session 1: Difference between revisions

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Some problems are only apparent while riding a bicycle. For example, if an unusual noise is repetitive, occurring with every pedal revolution,  the problem could be in the crankset area (pedal, bottom bracket, or chainring). A noise every second or third revolution might be in the chain, such as a stiff link. Ask yourself if the noise occurs when pedaling only or when coasting, and note if the noise occurs under load, such as on a hill or if you hit a bump.
Some problems are only apparent while riding a bicycle. For example, if an unusual noise is repetitive, occurring with every pedal revolution,  the problem could be in the crankset area (pedal, bottom bracket, or chainring). A noise every second or third revolution might be in the chain, such as a stiff link. Ask yourself if the noise occurs when pedaling only or when coasting, and note if the noise occurs under load, such as on a hill or if you hit a bump.


The first step to examining a bike is to ask the owner if they've noticed any issues while riding. Does the chain fall off? When (e.g. only when they're shifting and climbing a hill?), and in what gear? Do the tires hold air? How does it shift? Brake? Do the brakes squeal? Are there any other noises?
The first step to examining a bike is to look for issues while riding. Does the chain fall off? When (e.g. only when they're shifting and climbing a hill?), and in what gear? Do the tires hold air? How does it shift? Brake? Do the brakes squeal? Are there any other noises?


If the bike is safe to ride, and the tires have adequate air pressure, you can take the bike for a test ride yourself. Often this is not possible or necessary until after some repairs have been made first.
If the bike is safe to ride, and the tires have adequate air pressure, you can take the bike for a test ride. Often this is not possible or necessary until after some repairs have been made first.


With the bike in a repair stand, you can also visually inspect the bike for problems, test shifting, and feel for loose or overtight adjustments. This is where you can often pinpoint the source of problems that you felt or heard while riding.
With the bike in a repair stand, you can also visually inspect the bike for problems, test shifting, and feel for loose or overtight adjustments. This is where you can often pinpoint the source of problems that you felt or heard while riding.
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== Tools ==
== Tools ==
3

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