newbie bike maintenance questions

[Tuckervill]

I just posted this in the Bike Maintenance section the other day. (go to the thread and click the link.)

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=24138

Karen

[rbs4fun]

Thank you for the information. That checklist is exactly what I needed.

To Bike Goddess, I have a 2007 Novara Carema Pro from REI. I need to invest in a bike stand instead of just flipping the bike over. I used Simple Green to clean the bike once. Forgot what the chain cleaner I got is called, I picked it up after someone at REI told me it's good stuff.

[Bike Goddess]

Yes, get thee some kind of stand so you have a way of getting your bike off the ground without having to turn it upside down. You don't want Simple Green getting into the bottom bracket and other places on your bike as it really is a de-greaser. It will strip every ounce of good grease off and then you'll be in serious trouble!!!

I have, on occasion, used Simple Green in my chain cleaner as it really gets the chain clean. However, you MUST oil your chain after you get it completely rinsed off. Let it sit awhile to soak in and then take off the excess.

I see by the specs that you have a ten speed. I have a ten speed bike as well and have found that the chain wears out much faster than my nine speed. (this may change as I have upgraded from an Ultegra chain to a Dura Ace chain). If I were you, I'd get it check for stretching every 1000 miles or so. The other component that I find needs adjusting is my front derailleur. It's a tricky adjustment so just listen for noises when you are shifting. Often you can adjust it yourself by a 1/2 click on your left lever (the one that moves the chain in the front).

Looks like you have a nice bike for your needs.

[rbs4fun]

Thank you for the response.

I did some calculations and found that my bike has over 500 miles on it. I guess I need to do some work this weekend.

BG - the front derailleur has been noisy lately and my chain dropped, oops. My bike is definitely over due for some TLC.

[Bike Goddess]

Sounds like you don't have an odometer. I'd suggest you get one if only to help with maintenance issues. Do keep track of your mileage. You might be surprised at how much you are riding!

If your chain is dropping, it's either you or the chain needs adjustment. Look back at the time when it dropped and see if you can remember what you were doing at the time. This will help you figure out if it was "operator error".