Essential Skills for Self-Guided Bike Touring & Bikepacking Adventures

Embarking on a self-guided bike tour or bikepacking adventure is a thrilling way to explore the world on two wheels. But if you're planning a weekend getaway or a multi-week journey, being prepared with the right skills can make all the difference. This guide will cover essential skills you need to know and some useful tips to keep your ride smooth and enjoyable.

Table of Contents

• Essential Skills
  • How to Put Pedals On
  • How to Pop a Chain Back On
  • How to Change a Flat Tire
  • How to Remove a Rear Wheel
• Useful Skills
  • How to Adjust Gears
• Additional Tips

Essential Skills

How to Put Pedals On

1. Identify Left and Right Pedals: The right pedal (marked with an "R") goes on the drive side (with the chain), and the left pedal (marked with an "L") goes on the non-drive side.
2. Thread the Pedals by Hand: Screw the right pedal clockwise and the left pedal counterclockwise - this is CRITICAL to avoid permanently destroying the pedal threads.
3. Tighten with a Pedal Wrench: Use a pedal wrench to securely tighten the pedals, ensuring they are firmly attached. DO NOT overtighten!

How to Pop a Chain Back On

1. Lift the Rear Wheel: Lift the rear wheel off the ground.
2. Re-Engage the Chain: Place the chain back onto the rear cog and the front chainring.
3. Pedal Forward: Rotate the pedals forward to fully re-engage the chain.

How to Change a Flat Tire

1. Remove the Wheel: First, shift your gears to the smallest cog. If it's the rear wheel, release the brakes (if you have rim brakes).
2. Remove the Tire: Use tire levers to pry the tire off the rim. Start opposite the valve and work your way around.
3. Find the Puncture: Inspect the tire and tube for the puncture. Remove any debris.
4. Patch or Replace the Tube: If using a patch, roughen the area around the puncture, apply glue, and press the patch firmly. Alternatively, replace the tube entirely.
5. Reassemble the Tire: Put one side of the tire back on the rim, insert the tube, and then work the other side of the tire back onto the rim.
6. Inflate the Tire: Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure, checking to ensure the tube isn’t pinched.

How to Remove a Rear Wheel

1. Shift to the Smallest Cog: Shift your chain to the smallest rear cog to ease the removal.
2. Release the Brakes: If you have rim brakes, release them to free the wheel.
3. Open the Quick Release or Unscrew the Axle Nuts: Open the quick release lever or use a wrench to remove the axle nuts.
4. Lift the Bike and Remove the Wheel: Lift the bike and pull the wheel out. You may need to move the derailleur out of the way.

Useful Skills

How to Adjust Gears

1. Identify the Issue: Determine if the problem is with the front or rear derailleur.
2. Adjust the Barrel Adjuster: For minor adjustments, turn the barrel adjuster. Turning it counterclockwise increases tension, which can help with slow shifting.
3. Limit Screws: Adjust the limit screws to prevent the chain from falling off the gears. The "H" screw limits the high gear (small cog) and the "L" screw limits the low gear (large cog).
4. Cable Tension: If necessary, adjust the cable tension by loosening the cable clamp, pulling the cable tight, and re-tightening the clamp. This is commonly needed when a bike had brand new gear cables.
5. Test the Shifting: Shift through all the gears to ensure smooth transitions. Make fine adjustments as needed.

Additional Tips

• Carry the Right Tools: Always carry a multi-tool, tire levers, spare tubes, a pump, and a patch kit. These are provided free of charge with every rental.
• Perform Basic Bike Maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate your chain, check tire pressure, and inspect your brakes.
• Plan Your Route: Know your route, including terrain and distance, and plan for rest stops and overnight stays.
• Stay Safe: Wear a helmet, use lights and reflective gear, and follow local traffic laws.

By mastering these essential and useful skills, you'll be well-prepared for your bike touring or bikepacking adventure. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and the beauty of your surroundings with confidence and peace of mind. Happy cycling!