How to Care For Your Bike on a Really, Really Long Ride
Jamaica Lambie, 40, has worked on thousands of bikes during cause rides, races, and tours. He shares tips to keep your bike happy over a long haul.
BEFORE YOU GO
Spring For A Bike Fit And Tune-Up
"You can have a really nice bike, but if it doesn't fit well, you'll struggle." Take your bike to the shop a few weeks before the event so you can make sure everything is dialed.
Protect Your Baby
If you're shipping or flying with your bike, shift it into the farthest-in gear before boxing it. Even better: Unbolt the rear derailleur from the hanger, pack it in bubble wrap, and tape it to the chainstay.
Have A Plan B
"If I were driving across the country, I'd be better off in a Ford than a Lamborghini—I'm going to be able to find a radiator belt." Spare parts can be hard to come by in remote areas. Riding exotic boutique wheels? Bring a few extra spokes. Got electronic shifting? Pack a spare battery.
ON THE ROAD
Keep It Clean
"Wipe your bike down at the end of the day. That's how you find out if something is loose or broken."
Handle Small Repairs Yourself
That way event staff can help someone who'd otherwise be stranded. For example, you can usually cure a poorly shifting rear derailleur with a counterclockwise half turn of the shifter-cable barrel adjuster.
Be Gentle
"Most broken seatposts come from riders overtightening the bolt to fix a creak." To quiet a squeaky carbon-fiber post, slather it with carbon grip paste and tighten the bolt with a torque key [a wrench that clicks when you've reached a certain amount of torque]".
Boost Your Karma
If a mechanic helped you on the road, say thanks with a smile, a tip, or a treat.
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