Learning Bike Repairs



Photo showing a non- standard repair.  A 6mm set screw to replace a shorter set screw in a striped thread in the riser fitting.  I will cut the excess off. A replacement riser has been difficult to find due to the small handlebar diameter (21mm).
A set of Butterfly Bars ordered in November are two weeks overdue.  Even if they arrive between now and Christmas I may not have time to fit them. 



 I also shortened the chain.  There is a chain length formula which is available online.  I used this to calculate that my chain was 5 inches or 5 links too long.  It was causing chain suck I believe.  This is when the chain doesn't release from the chainrings. Other things can cause this,  but it seemed obvious to me that slack in the chain.  Another problem with too many links was that in the smallest gear,  the chain was fouling the top wheel on the derailleur.  This photo shows a clearance. It's no wonder the PO had "trouble with the gears".

I have not tested these repairs yet,  but  as I learn new things I have greater confidence in my capacity to figure it out and tune it well. The fear of breaking down somewhere remote and beyond help is reducing allthe time, and it's a joyous way to pass time.

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