Bicycling

Bicycling is more than a kid's pastime. Across the world, bikes are used for pleasure, transportation, and competition. This page holds a variety of resources for the cyclist.

Adjusting the rear derailleur

The derailleur changes the gears on the bike. Most derailleurs are set properly and only need tweaks. Consult your bike store for a complete adjustment.

  1. Shift to the smallest cog on the rear wheel.
  2. Twist the barrel connector on the cable until the cable is loose.
  3. Shift to the highest cog on the rear wheel.
  4. Look at the chain, if it is not centered on the cog, or looks like it will fall off the top, adjust the H screw on the derailleur.
    As you turn the screw, the derailleur will shift with the turn.
  5. Tighten the barrel connector until the cable becomes tight.
  6. Shift down to the smallest cog on the rear wheel.
  7. Look at the chain, if it is not centered on the cog, or looks like it will fall off the bottom, adjust the L screw on the derailleur.
    As you turn the screw, the derailleur will shift with the turn.
  8. Now try shifting up and down. If the cable sticks while going to larger gears, increase the tension. If the shift does not want to go to smaller gears, decrease the tension. Continue until each gear is easily accessible.

Checking Seat height

Proper seat height is crucial for best performance and the health of your knees. When purchasing a new bike have the bike store do a proper fitting. The following steps work when a bike professional is not nearby.

  1. Ensure the seat is level.
  2. Sit on the seat.
  3. Pedal backwards. If your knee is fully extended at the bottom of the stroke, your seat is at the proper height.

Bicycling Links