Bicycle Network: Bikes 'n' Bits

A year with my bike

It's time to step back and take a look at the bigger maintenance picture. Let's see how a whole year of looking after your bike would go. This article first appeared in RideOn October-November 2006 issue.

Bath time for your bike

With spring approaching, it's the perfect time to get your bike looking buff again.

Braking in your bike

Keeping your brakes in good shape will make you a more confident, and therefore a more capable, rider, explains Stephen Huntley.

Carbon care and repair

Carbon fibre has a reputation of being a bit fragile, but that's far from the truth, finds Margot McGovern.

Chain reaction

Get more intimate with your bike chain and you’ll find your riding easier, and a lot cleaner, finds Stephen Huntley.

Diagnosis 101

What does that rattle mean? How do I know if my chain is haddit? Learn the diagnosis techniques of pro mechanics to understand your bike’s state of health.

Don't be left feeling flat

They can be very irritating, but punctures, properly handled, won’t ruin your ride, writes Rowan Lamont.

Get a grip and tape up your handlebars

Having the right grip on your handlebars can add much joy to your riding experience, finds Rowan Lamont. Includes how to wrap your bars.

Maintenance workshops

Want to know how to service your own bike, set up your road or mountain bike or simply change a flat tyre? Here is a comprehensive list of maintenance workshops.

RACV and RACT Bike Assist

Victorian and Tasmanian bike riders can sign up for roadside breakdown assistance through the Bike Assistservice offered by both RACV and RACT.

Simple for some

Some bike maintenance jobs seem so basic that it’s assumed everyone knows how to do them well, but that’s not always the case, writes Stephen Huntley.

Smooth Runnings

Cleaning and lubing your drivetrain is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do at home but it saves you money and makes riding easier.

Take a brake

With the (hopefully) wet weather of winter approaching, it’s time to check your brakes. This article appeared in the April-May 2010 edition of Ride On.

Tyre selection and care

Everything you need to know to prolong the life of your tyres