Rider Handbook

Bicycle Preparation List

Before you depart, you will want to be sure to have your bicycle prepared for the long journey ahead. Your components need to be ready for the heavy use you are about to put them through. A phrase I like to use to describe this is .better than new.. This means once you have completed this preparation, you want to be able to road test your bike a few hundred miles to be sure all the work was done well and that you won.t have problems once the ride begins. You will want to schedule the bike preparation to be completed at least 2 weeks before you depart. Because this is normally a busy time for bike mechanics, be sure to check with yours well in advance to be sure you can get the work done on time.

The following check list should be followed for this preparation:

• Wheels
  • If your wheels are fairly new, have the spokes checked for tension and the wheels trued. If your wheels have more than 6,000 miles on them, consider buying a new set, preferably hand built. Stay away from light racing wheels and select heavier touring type wheels with 32 or 36 spokes. Replace any heavily scratched or bent spokes and check the spoke nipples to be sure they are not pulling through the rim.
  • In either case, have your hub serviced, which includes lubing and checking the bearings, and adjusting the cones.
  • Get 3 spare spokes for each size spoke you have on your wheels and pack them in your bike bag that you will carry with you when you ride.
  • Install new cloth rim tape as needed.
  • Purchase 6-12 new tubes, a patch kit, a tweezers, and 2 new folding bead tires to bring along. Carry at least 2 tubes and the patch kit with you on the bike. Also have some material with you for a tire boot in case your tire gets cut on the road.
• Headset
  • Have the mechanic check to be sure your stem and fork are lubed and tightened and that your stem size is fit for a comfortable ride. Also check both front and rear drop outs for cracks and alignment.
• Brakes
  • Install new cables and housings, replace and adjust brake pads, and purchase an extra set of pads to bring along in the event they need replacing.
• Gears
  • Install new cables and housings, replace and adjust brake pads, and purchase an extra set of pads to bring along in the event they need replacing.
  • Install new cables and housings and adjust both front and rear derailleurs. Clean rear cassette and install new chain. Purchase an additional chain and have the mechanic size it for your bike including a .power link.. You will want to replace your chain about half way across the country to prevent excessive component wear and tear. Bring along a tooth brush and some bike cleaner with a few rags to keep your drive clean working well. Also pack a bottle of your favorite chain lube.
• Cranks
  • Install new cables and housings, replace and adjust brake pads, and purchase an extra set of pads to bring along in the event they need replacing. Check bottom bracket for wear replace, lube and tighten as required. If your bottom bracket is old, consider installing a new one. Clean and tighten cranks and lube clipless pedal systems as required.
• Seat Post
  • Install new cables and housings, replace and adjust brake pads, and purchase an extra set of pads to bring along in the event they need replacing. Once the height is set for your seat post, mark it so that you can set the height properly again if necessary. Lightly lube the seat post and be sure to tighten all bolts. Buy a spare seat post bolt and carry it with you in case yours breaks.
• Other items to carry along
  • Install new cables and housings, replace and adjust brake pads, and purchase an extra set of pads to bring along in the event they need replacing. Pack a multi tool with screw drivers, Allen wrenches, zip ties, plastic bags, etc. Also pack a small roll of electrical or duct tape, a small length of wire, tweezers, a small medical kit, sun screen, bag balm, a flashing red blinker, and a tire pump (Topeak Road Morph with Gauge is the best!)