Tech Source
Bicycle Maintenance
At a college with such a large campus, it's possible you may decide to ride a bike to class rather than walk. Students have been doing this for years and Texas Tech has included bicycle pumps at key locations across campus for just this reason. However, if you do not know how to take care of your bike, it may be difficult to get to class. This would be terrible since college students are known to always attend class on time.
This guide will be an introduction to the basics of bicycle maintenance. In this guide, I will discuss how to change and inflate your tires, how to change your bicycle chain, and what resources Texas Tech has available for bicycles on campus. A list of required materials will be posted before each section.
For Texas Tech students, be sure to go to the Bike Shop if you have any questions.
Also, make sure to register your bike with TTU Parking Services so you can use the on campus pumps and bike racks.
Free Student Resources
Fixing A Flat Tire
Required Materials: Spare tire, air pump, tire levers
Fixing a flat tire is an inconvenient truth for anyone who rides bikes regularly. It's an important skill to know for emergencies or to save a few dollars. However, it is also too complicated of a process to put into writing here. For this reason, I have included the following video describing the process.
It's important to note that while a bike will still work with a flat tire, this is detrimental for the bicycle as a whole. Riding on a flat tire could ruin the tire, the bike frame, and the gears and chain. If you do not have the tools or the time at the moment, simply walking next to the bike will suffice until you can fix the tire.
Helpful Video: How to Fix a Flat Tire
Changing A Bicycle Chain
Required Materials: New chain, chain tool
Chains and Chain Tools: https://www.amazon.com/bicycle-chain-tool/s?k=bicycle+chain+tool
There may come a time when you need to replace your bicycle chain. Fortunately, it's a fairly easy fix. Like any other repair, it is still a good idea to wait until you have the proper tools and time before attempting to repair it.
It's important to note that each bicycle is different. Depending on the make, model, year, type, complexity, etc. your chain may require a little more work to change. However, the basic ideas will still apply and the video posted below will help. To ensure you have the proper tools before attempting this repair, there will also be links to websites to buy chains and chain tools.
Helpful Video: How to Fix a Bicycle Chain
Sources for this page and more information can be found at GCN.com