July+31

We had a great day with Bontrager-Livestrong's Head Mechanic Eric Fostvedt! He gave us some great pointers on ways to keep our bikes safe and in great working order! Here are some notes from the presentation: Use degreaser and a garden hose ( do not use a pressure washer!) Be sure to lube the center of you chain and wipe it throuroughly often, it will keep your bike quiet
 * Washing-** Wash your bike more often!

Bolts- Check stem, brake, bar, and deraileur bolts Brakes- Make sure the pads are hitting the braking surface evenly, check for wear on the pads Tires- Look for crowning ( the flat top area) sidewall damage and cuts or punctures to the tire Helmet- ALWAYS wear a helmet!
 * Safety Checks-**
 * small cuts can be fixed with a smal dab of super glue

1- Let the air out of the tube 2- Work tire off rim 3- Inspect the tire for what caused the flat 4- blow a little air into the new tube 5-Put one side of the tire bead into the rim 6-Insert tube into the tire 7- work tire on being careful not to pinch the tube while putting it on
 * Changing a tire-**

Be sure to bring: An allenwhench set ( tri-spoke or multi tool) TWO Extra Tubes (in case you mess up) A way to inflate your tires ( pump or CO2) Tire levers if you cannot remove the tire by hand Peder Adds-- $5 or $10 in case you need to buy a tube, food, or tip a kind mechanic who fixes your bike while youre out!
 * Tools to bring on a ride-**

Pictures:

The Ride ( Some kids went farther!)