Question: I’m fairly new to road riding, and I’m having a hard time understanding when it’s best to replace certain parts or equipment. How do you determine when saddles, shoes and tires are worn out? – Beth A. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: You’ll develop a more refined sense of when it’s right to replace specific gear…
Question: I’m packing my bike to fly to a tour. I don’t have a hard case. Are cardboard boxes okay? If not, what other options are available to me? – Jennifer W. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I don’t recommend using a cardboard box for flying with your bike. You can pad the bike well and maybe luck out,…
Question: Should I carry my bike on a roof rack or in the trunk of my car? – Jane W. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Many cyclists put their precious bikes on the roof, either because there’s no room inside or because they like to be recognized as cyclists when they drive. But bikes lead a hard…
Question: I’ve been riding my bike on a trainer all winter and now I’m concerned that I’ve damaged the headset. When I lift the front wheel, the handlebar sticks in the straight-ahead position. Did I somehow mess it up? – Brady P. Maybe. Pedaling your bike on an indoor trainer can cause flat spots that ruin…
Q: It’s been a blazing summer where I live. I’m really tired of hot fluids in my bottles. I fill them with ice, but the liquid is lukewarm in 45 minutes. I’d rather not use a backpack-style hydration system. Any suggestions? — Patty J. COACH FRED: Try insulated bottles. Mailorder catalogs have them, and they’re probably…
