5 Basic Bike Mechanic Skills Every Queer Should Know
It feels good to be able to fix your own bike. Even if you have no desire to learn how to true a wheel (can’t say I blame you!), knowing some basic maintenance skills can go a long way in making you more confident and self-sufficient on the road or trail.
Knowing a few basic bike mechanic skills can not only improve your confidence and self-sufficiency, but also save you money. Bike repairs often aren’t cheap, so taking care of the basics on your own is a great way to save some cash (that you can then go spend on more bikes!).
Let’s take a look at five basic skills that every queer cyclist should know.
How to fix a flat
Knowing how to fix a flat tire is probably the most useful skill a beginner mechanic should master. It’s certainly the skill I’ve used the most while riding. Whether you’re commuting to work, going on overnight bikepacking trips, or simply out for an hour-long ride, being confident in your ability to fix a flat is a game-changer.
Check out this video from the very cool Hard Knox Bikes on how to change an inner tube and be sure to practice, practice, practice! You’ll be a pro in no time. Be sure to always carry an extra inner tube or two in case the need for a roadside fix arises.
How to adjust your brakes
Adjusting your brakes is a skill that will serve you well and will increase the safety of your biking adventures. The process for adjusting your brakes depends on the type of brakes your bike has - caliper, cantilever, disc, etc. So firstly, you’ll need to identify what type of brakes you’re working with (a simple Google search should do the trick).
There are plenty of how-to videos on YouTube for all the brake types under the sun. It can be tricky to get them to align just right, so practice at home so you can get confident to do mid-ride adjustments if needed.
How to remove and replace your wheels
Removing and replacing your bike wheels is a skill that you’ll use over and over again, whether you’re fixing a flat, cleaning your frame, or fitting your bike into a car or other cramped space. REI has a great video about how to remove a rear wheel that takes you through the process in a simple and clear way. Getting the wheels off and then on again with everything aligned and tightened properly is an essential skill for any beginner home mechanic.
How to clean and lube your chain
Keeping your bike’s chain clean and well-maintained is essential for the safety and longevity of your bike. Luckily, it’s a really simple and easy process to incorporate into your regular bike maintenance schedule.
This REI video shows you how to clean your entire bike and lube the chain. Remember, a clean bike is a happy bike!
How to do a quick safety check
Are all the nuts and bolts tightened? Is your tire pressure good? Are your quick-release levers tightened? Are both brakes working? These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself and areas on your bike you should check out before every ride.
Here’s another great resource from Hard Knox Bikes that outlines the elements of a daily bike check. Incorporating a quick safety check into your pre-ride preparations is essential and can help you avoid major mechanical and safety issues down the road.