Monday
Introduction.
The course will begin with an open forum discussion to establish the individual
requirements of each student and, if already a cyclist, what type of bike they
use. The course will begin with an introduction to the bike and how to select
the most suitable type to meet individual requirements. Using examples of the
main types of bike on the market (road, mountain, hybrid and electric) we will
learn the names of the main components and how to select the correct size of
frame and wheels. We will look at how to check that the bike is safe to use and
how it is adjusted to ensure a comfortable and efficient riding posture. We
will discuss the various accessories that can be fitted to a bike and the
essential tools required for conducting home maintenance and road-side repairs.
The students will be given their complimentary tool kit.
Tuesday
Wheels,
Tyres and Tubes. Types and sizes of wheels and tyres fitted to most modern
bikes. How to select the most suitable tyres for your bike. How to check that
your wheels and tyres are safe and secure. How to remove a wheel and tyre to
repair a puncture. Care and maintenance of wheels and tyres.
Wednesday
Brakes and
Gears. Different types of braking systems. How to ensure that your brakes are
safe and working properly. How to use brakes correctly. How to replace worn
brake pads. Care and maintenance of braking systems. Different types of gear
systems. How to check that your gears are working properly. How to use the
gears correctly. How to replace a thrown or broken chain.
Care,
maintenance and lubrication of chains and gears.
Thursday
Bearings,
Forks and Frames. The types of bearings fitted to most bikes and how they are
maintained. Different types of bike frames, forks and suspension systems. How
to check that the frame, front forks and handlebars are secure and correctly
adjusted. How to check that the suspension is working and correctly adjusted.
Friday
Accessories,
Clothing and Equipment. Discussion about the various accessories available and
which ones are best for you; this includes the main types of saddles, pedals,
lights, computers and carriers on the market. How to ensure that accessories
are fitted safely and securely. Clothing and equipment for cycling, including
helmets, gloves and shoes. What should be carried on every bike ride, including
the essential tools and spare parts needed to carry out basic roadside repairs.
Summary of course content and final questions.
Equipment
Students are encouraged to bring their own bike,
helmet and accessories with them on the course if possible. Various types of
bike will be available to work on during the course and all students will be
given a basic bicycle tool kit to take away with them at the end.
References
'The Bike Book' (Haynes, 7th edition, April
2017, James Witts) is an excellent reference book for all aspects of bike
maintenance and worth buying. All bikes sold in the UK are re-quired to conform
with British Standard 6102 Part 1 together with British and European Standards
for Bicycles (BS EN 14764, 14766 and 14781), which will be referred to during
the course.
