Yes, I am female. No, I don't enjoy tinkering with my bike, and no, I don't maintain the bike to the standard that it deserves. I have yet to even change a tire, but I am learning. So, no sarcasm please, I just need a couple of answers in real simple, non-technical language.
Today I popped the chain off my mountain bike. On the road bike I just put it back on any ring, doesn't seem to matter. On the mtn. bike there are the numbers/lines on the shifters that tell you what gear you are in, and in my 6 rides, I have started to rely on those when I go up hill. So, when the chain came off, I had no idea what ring to put it back on. Does it matter, do I just throw it on and go?
Second question- this week-end my husband pointed out that the sidewalls on the tires of my new road bike are cracking. He accused me of not pumping up the tires before I ride. But I have, every single time. I have the big arm muscles to prove it. Plus, I hate the feeling of riding on soft wheels. The bike is a trek 2700 with Bontrager wheels, bought in December. Any thoughts on the cracking? Is this normal or am I doing something wrong?
Today I popped the chain off my mountain bike. On the road bike I just put it back on any ring, doesn't seem to matter. On the mtn. bike there are the numbers/lines on the shifters that tell you what gear you are in, and in my 6 rides, I have started to rely on those when I go up hill. So, when the chain came off, I had no idea what ring to put it back on. Does it matter, do I just throw it on and go?
Second question- this week-end my husband pointed out that the sidewalls on the tires of my new road bike are cracking. He accused me of not pumping up the tires before I ride. But I have, every single time. I have the big arm muscles to prove it. Plus, I hate the feeling of riding on soft wheels. The bike is a trek 2700 with Bontrager wheels, bought in December. Any thoughts on the cracking? Is this normal or am I doing something wrong?