wrench-ed brought to you from the same mind that brings you Sprinting the Bell Lap. you have been warned

Thursday, April 23, 2015

video killed the radio

If video killed the radio star, then the internet killed the porn star. Yeah right. The 'ol internet, the interwebs, the world wide web, google it, Al Gore invented it, and we love it, can't get enough of it. How did you like that sentence? Awesome structure. You can thank my education, nah I really didn't pay attention. Any who, The internet. What does it have to do with bike maintenance? Well you can google anything, so you can fix anything with the internet. Right? Right. It really is that simple. No, but it really is a good place to start if you are looking for a DIY bike fix-er. Working on your own bike is a great way to get to know your bike, and your local bike shop mechanic is a great resource of maintenance knowledge. Just ask. Bring cookies and beer if you want their full attention.

Yes you can buy all kinds of parts on the internet, and at super awesome deals, but should you? When you save a couple of bucks do you know how to properly install said discount part? What if it breaks? Where do you take it to get warranty work, or to send it in? Do you take it to your local shop and have them put the part on your bike that you just purchased elsewhere? Does that make you feel good, saving a buck or two? Did you know most shops will price match the internet, or get as close as possible? They do. Just ask, it's not rude, It's business. Most shops will try to get as close to internet pricing, and also in some cases install the part. Really, not a myth. Try it.

There is a special place in bicycle hell for those of you who come into the shop ask questions, get advice, seek information, and then go to the interweb to purchase the very product that you were inquiring. You know who you are, shame on you. Yes, I do know that shops sometimes don't stock what you are looking for or you need a part faster than they can get it. There are always exceptions, and these exceptions are excusable. BUT, shopping and researching at the local shop, and then buying from the web is a cardinal sin. Just don't do it, please. Imagine if a customer or potential customer of yours did this in your industry. How does it feel?

Use your local shop, don't abuse your local shop. The key word is Local, we live here, we work here, we ride here.


Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Do you shower?

For the Love of All Things Holy and Good. Clean your Frickity-Frackity Chain. You wash yourself don't you? If not please stop reading and go shower you dirty bast.... Take a little pride in your ride and wipe down your chain when it is not shiny. Chains are metallic in nature and should have a nice luster to them. Chains are not happy when black, mucky, and grotty. Lube generously and then wipe it all off for a nice shiny, happy chain. It's not rocket surgery. And as always Tip your Mechanic. It's the Law.