Latest mountain bike news

I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Community
Bike maintenance classes
Feb 1, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Cycling earphones for iPod
Jan 31, 2007
Logo for ActionProfiles, an action sports network, featuring the text "Check out our profile at ActionProfiles" and the tagline "The Action Sports Network" on a dark background.
Culture
Mountain bikers seeking sponsorship
Jan 30, 2007
A man wearing a black cap and a red cycling jersey stands outdoors, with trees and a road sign in the background. He has a serious expression on his face.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Have you seen my mountain bike?
Jan 29, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Growing the sport
Jan 29, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Bike Church and other cycling non-profits
Jan 28, 2007
  2
A wooden seesaw positioned on a grassy area, surrounded by lush green foliage. The seesaw is balanced on a central pivot with one side elevated, suggesting readiness for play.
MTB Tips
How to Build a Mountain Bike Teeter Totter Feature
Jan 27, 2007
  3
Culture
Jackass Number 2: Bike stunts
Jan 26, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Snow bike
Jan 25, 2007
A Shimano bicycle pedal featuring a silver metallic body and clip mechanism, designed for secure shoe attachment during cycling.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The clipless pedal debate rages on
Jan 24, 2007
  1
Alt text: "Promotional poster for the film 'Klunkerz' featuring a group of people on mountain bikes. The poster includes the film's title, tagline 'They Re-Invented the Wheel,' and credits for contributions from various individuals in the mountain biking community, all set against a vintage-style background."
Culture
Klunkerz mountain bike movie
Jan 23, 2007
A close-up view of a bicycle wheel partially buried in snow, with black zip ties securing the tire to the rim. A wooden surface is visible in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Using zip ties for tire traction in snow
Jan 22, 2007
  3
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Mountain bike as weapon
Jan 22, 2007
Alt text: Interior view of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, featuring bicycles displayed on the walls and ceiling, with informational plaques and memorabilia in the background. The words "Mountain Bike Hall of Fame" are prominently displayed.
Culture
Mountain bike hall of fame
Jan 22, 2007
Culture
Mountain bike trail art
Jan 19, 2007
  1
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Community
USA Cycling mountain bike calendar
Jan 18, 2007
A bright orange mountain bike with blue patterned rims resting against a gray concrete wall. The bike features a sleek design with a sturdy frame and front suspension, positioned on a dark asphalt surface.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Colorful mountain bike tires
Jan 17, 2007
A person riding a mountain bike along a dirt trail in a wooded area, surrounded by bare trees and fallen leaves. The cyclist is wearing a pink top and a helmet.
Mountain Bike Trails
Itusi Trail at Lake Norman State Park
Jan 17, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Community
IMBA lobbying for cyclists in DC
Jan 16, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike helmet cam
Jan 15, 2007
  1
A group of cyclists races along a rural road while spectators watch and take photos from the roadside. The cyclists are wearing blue and white jerseys, and one is leading the pack. In the background, there are two vehicles parked on the shoulder and rocky terrain alongside the road.
Culture
Armstrong with a little Landis on the side
Jan 12, 2007
Sock with a cartoon chicken design, featuring a red and white color scheme and the text "Ya Clucken" printed on the side, displayed on a wooden surface.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
What happened to Sock Guy?
Jan 11, 2007
A smiling man swimming underwater, giving a thumbs-up gesture while wearing a waterproof device on his arm. The background features a clear blue ocean with coral visible below. The text "music.gives.Joy" is overlaid on the image.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
iPod case for mountain bikes
Jan 10, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Community
Lance drops Leadville MTB race
Jan 9, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Jobs for mountain bikers
Jan 8, 2007
  2
Alt text: A Suunto watch with a digital display, accompanied by a heart rate monitor strap and a sensor. The watch features a round face and a black rubber band, while the sensor and strap are in black with the Suunto logo.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Deal on Suunto Mountain Bike Watch
Jan 7, 2007
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Forget the skis, jump on your mountain bike
Jan 5, 2007
Image of a t-shirt featuring a graphic design related to downhill mountain biking. The shirt is olive green with an orange and gray color scheme. The main elements include the letters "DH" and "MTB," along with the text "DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKETEAM." An illustration of a cyclist riding downhill is prominently displayed, accompanied by directional arrows and warning symbols. The design suggests a focus on mountain biking and adventure sports.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike lifestyle clothing
Jan 4, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Transfer mountain bike trail maps to your GPS
Oct 19, 2006
  2
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Using your GPS on the mountain bike trail
Sep 7, 2006
  4
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking in Albuquerque
Mar 13, 2006
Mountain Bikes and Gear
finally, my new ride!
Aug 20, 2005
Mountain Bikes and Gear
is it a crime to ride it?
Aug 15, 2005
An orange GPS device, the Earthmate PN-40, resting on a bed of brown dried leaves, displaying a mapping interface with coordinates and distance information.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain Bike Geocaching
Jul 7, 2005
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
NC Triangle (Locals Only)
Jul 6, 2005
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
from log pyramids to teeter-totters
Jul 4, 2005
Community
nc state games
Jun 25, 2005
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
Buffalo Creek: Shhhh! (It's a secret)
Jun 24, 2005
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
mountain biking in roanoke, va
Jun 19, 2005
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Using a GPS with Your Personal Computer
Mar 26, 2005
Close-up of a DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 GPS device mounted on a bike handlebar, displaying a detailed map with a speed reading of 0.2 mph. The device features an orange casing with various buttons for navigation.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
What a GPS Can Do for Mountain Bikers
Jun 19, 2004
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
Tons of Trails in Colorado Springs
May 27, 2004
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
Tsali is the Place to Ride
May 15, 2002
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Mountain Bike Trails
East Side vs. West Side
Mar 30, 2002
  2
I got an email this week from a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebicyclechain.com/">local bike shop</a> about some bike maintenance classes being held at the shop in the evenings. They call it Bicycle Chain University (BCU) though I think the use of the word "university" is a bit strong for single-session "classes" on stuff like how to lube your chain. To be fair they do have more advanced courses like wheel truing and bottom bracket bearing adjustment. On the surface this seems like a self defeating concept for bike shops given that for every customer they teach to "do it yourself," they'll lose at least one customer for their maintenance services (or more if customers start working on friends' bikes). If you think about it though, you really can't learn all that much in a single 2-hour session (as they say, just enough to be dangerous) but YOU WILL become confident in purchasing and using your own tools and supplies. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parktool.com/">Park tool</a> knows this and they have created dozens of free online bike repair tutorials on their website which generally leads customers to purchasing Park tools. The classes also help create a little buzz around the stores which is certainly appreciated by most struggling local bike shops. In the end though, I think I'll be skipping BCU this semester, I prefer to leave my critical bike maintenance to the pros. See you at graduation.
Culture
Mountain bike jerks
Sep 13, 2001
  1
A cyclist riding a mountain bike along a dirt trail in a wooded area during late autumn, surrounded by bare trees and fallen leaves. The cyclist is wearing a red helmet and a pink shirt, actively navigating the path.
Mountain Bike Trails
Hidden Gems Found in Augusta, GA
Sep 13, 2001
  1