Technical part

Tools, maintenance, parts compatibility and function…

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Approach to bicycle servicing

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First steps (approach) when servicing a bicycle

Updated: 08/11/2018. This post is about approaching a bicycle that needs repairs, or regular maintenance. Perhaps it sounds a bit absurd – “what’s the big deal in how to approach a bicycle?”, but in the remainder of this post, I’ll explain what’s the “catch”. Contents: 0. Introduction 1. Talking to the client …1.1. Listening …1.2. … Read more Approach to bicycle servicing

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Bicycle handlebar dimension standards

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Bicycle handlebar dimension standards

Updated: 16/11/2018. This post will give overview of bicycle handlebar size standards, in terms of stem mounting area as well as grip mounting area (or bar wrap area for road “drop” bars). Other important dimensions of road bike bars are explained in the post about road bar geometry, while important considerations for flat bars are given … Read more Bicycle handlebar dimension standards

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Bicycle stem size standards

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Bicycle stem size standards (dimensions)

Updated: 16/11/2018. Table of contents: 0. Introduction 1. Types of stems ….1.1. Quill stem ….1.2. Threadless stem 2. Important dimensions and how to measure ….2.1. Handlebar (clamp) attachment diameter ….2.2. Steering column attachment diameter 3. Stem dimension standards ….3.1. Handlebar clamp dimension standards ….3.2. Steering column attachment dimension standards ……..3.2.1. Threaded stems ……..3.2.2. Threadless stems … Read more Bicycle stem size standards

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Bicycle cassette (rear chainrings) standards

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Bicycle cassette standards - uniglide, hyperlide, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 speeds, XD...

Updated: 30/03/2020. This post will explain bicycle rear chainrings standards. Since in cycling literature a term “sprocket” is used to refer to rear chainrings, that term will be used in the remainder of this post (and most other on this site). In cycling terminology, term “chainring” usually refers to front chainrings only. Contents:1. Introduction2. Sprocket … Read more Bicycle cassette (rear chainrings) standards

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Bicycle drive chain standard dimensions

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Bicycle drive chain dimension standards - 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 speeds...

Updated: 05/06/2019. This post will give overview of bicycle driving chains standard dimensions. Each chain has three important dimensions: pitch, inner diameter and outer diameter. 1. Bicycle driving chain pitch Chain pitch is the distance at which the pins are placed. It is measured by measuring the distance between 3 links, then dividing it by … Read more Bicycle drive chain standard dimensions

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Headsets [03] Headset bearings standards – SHIS

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Standard dimensions (sizes) of bicycle headsets (fork bearings) - SHIS

Updated: 25/11/2018. Previous two posts have explained the names of steerer parts and how to measure the important dimensions. This post deals with headset bearings standards. If (re)packing a (new) headset with loose bearing balls, see: Standard bicycle bearing ball sizes. Contents: 1. Introduction 2. Marking rules (format) 3. Standard dimensions …3.1. Head tube inner … Read more Headsets [03] Headset bearings standards – SHIS

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Roller wear effect on chain to chainring engagement

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Effect of bicycle chain roller wear on chain's engagement with chainrings

Updated: 16/11/2018. In a previous post “Bicycle chain wear (elongation)” it was explained how chain wear happens and affects chain’s performance. There it was mentioned that roller wear doesn’t affect chain’s performance. The only thing that affects performance is chain’s elongation (change of pitch) – i.e. inner plates to pin contact area wear. The goal … Read more Roller wear effect on chain to chainring engagement

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Seatpost diameter sizes (standards)

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Bicycle seatpost dimension (width, size) standards

Updated: 16/11/2018. This post explains what kinds of seatpost diameters are most commonly used and how they are measured – to avoid mistakes when purchasing, or changing seatposts. The post deals only with diameter (width). The length of the seatpost depends on frame geometry (design) and size – i.e. how much the saddle needs to … Read more Seatpost diameter sizes (standards)

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Standard thread dimensions used with bicycles

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Standard ISO dimensions for threads used with bicycles

Updated: 27/01/2019. ISO standard defines dimensions of thread – by diameter and pitch. This post provides a list of standards most commonly used on bicycles, with explanation of most common use. Tools most commonly used for (un)screwing the bolts and nuts of the given standards will also be noted (also by ISO standard), for both … Read more Standard thread dimensions used with bicycles

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Comparative overview of bicycle chain lubricants

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Comparative overview of bicycle chain lubricants

Updated: 08/11/2018. This post will offer a comparative overview of bicycle chain lubricants. It will include standard commercialy available lubricants that can be used for lubing bicycle chains, such as chainsaw bar oil, motor oil etc. It will also give comparison of lubricants sold and marketed as bicycle chain lubricants. They will be noted with … Read more Comparative overview of bicycle chain lubricants

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Standard bicycle bearing ball sizes

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Standard bicycle bearing ball sizes

Updated: 24/12/2019. Bicycles usually use ball bearings. Modern cartridge bearings come as a closed unit – with balls and races packed in a single unit. However, many bicycles still use older, cup and cone system, where balls can (and should) be replaced with new ones when servicing bearings. This is the case with most Shimano … Read more Standard bicycle bearing ball sizes

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Bicycle chain lubricants – explained

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Bicycle chain lubricants - in detail

Updated: 10/02/2020. Eternal debate in the cycling world: how to lube and maintain a bicycle chain? There are those that seldom notice drive chain, until it starts creaking really loud, or breaks. There are also those that regularly clean and lubricate their chains. When it comes to those who do maintain their bicycle chains, there … Read more Bicycle chain lubricants – explained