Now that winter is here, most of us are not out riding our bikes. It’s a time to curl up by the fireplace and read that book we’ve been wanting to read. Of course we recommend that you be sure to spend some time each day on your trainer, or on your exercise bike. There are a number of DVD’s and other videos available to help make it more fun. Be sure to take advantage of winter specials at your bike shop. Most shops reduce prices for tune-ups and overhauls during the winter months. Bike shops are great places to visit for great Christmas gifts for all your cycling friends too.

 And there is one more thing we can do.  Attend a repair class and learn how to do some of the basic repairs on our bikes. Many bike shops offer classes during the winter months. Now is the time to get enrolled so you don’t miss out.

Midwest Cyclery is offering two levels of classes this winter. One is a Basic class, and the other is and Advanced class. The Basic class covers: 

• The repair of a flat tire on a bicycle

• What to do if the chain falls off

• What to do if you break a spoke

• What to check before each ride

• Minor maintenance for upkeep of your bicycle

• Some of the tools and accessories you may want along on a ride

This class will be offered 4 times during January 2008.

The Advanced class covers:

• Replacement of gear and brake cables on a bicycle

• What to do if your brakes are rubbing the rim

• What to do if gears are not smooth or the chain falls off

• How derailleurs and brakes work, how they adjust and where to lube

• Tools and accessories you may want along on a ride

This class will be offered 4 times during January and February 2008.

For more details on the classes, and how to enroll visit www.midwestcyclery.com