[ETC-Discussion] Have You Checked Your Oil?

[angell2 at teamangell.com]

Have you checked your oil? Have you even peered under the hood?

Whether tandeming in the neighborhood or riding mega-miles in the  
Sound area, if we ignore the basic bike upkeep, tandems can have  
significant mechanical events which make the ride home an even bigger  
event.  Unlike the dual-single bike outings of the past, you no longer  
have the redundancy to bail you out with the remaining working bike  
sent to get service assistance.

The tandem maintenance workshop this Saturday in Redmond offers a  
unique opportunity to learn a few tips about your tandem?s care.  A  
few quick checks of your long bike make for a safe outing.  What to  
look for (or ask about)?

Timing chain too loose, too tight or what do I do when it comes off?

What is a bottom bracket and do I need to service it?

Why is my shifting so finicky?

Where is that squeaking or creepy noise coming from?

Having ridden a tandem for a dozen years, we have been perplexed by a  
wide range of noises generated by our tandem.  Most recently, on an  
early morning commute to work, our stoker bottom bracket started  
making a loud racket.  The noise woke up dogs in the trailside condos  
? yikes!

Over the years, we found that learning about our tandem is a journey,  
not a destination ? we?re always learning new things.

Consider attending this maintenance workshop and add to your tandem  
experience.  A successful turnout at this Redmond bike shop will make  
it easier for our club to schedule yet more workshops at other bike  
shops.

Planning to attend?  Please email Larry at  
president at evergreentandemclub.org to RSVP

More workshop details at www.evergreentandemclub.org

Ride safe,

TeamAngell