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About Oregon daily emerald. (Eugene, Or.) 1920-2012 | View Entire Issue (April 8, 1981)
Graphic by Jody Murray Do-it-yourself cuts shop costs A thoughtful bike owner can quickly repay the investment in a two-wheeler with periodic self-repair to avoid bike shop overhauls that chomp into the pocketbook. To those who would much rather pick up a porcupine than a screwdriver, self-repair sounds like a painful proposi tion. But according to one local bike mechanic, two simple tasks will help avoid a mountain of misery. "There are two cardinal rules — keep the chain oiled and keep the tires inflated,” says Jim Hagerman, a mechanic at the Cycle Works at 663 E. 13th Ave. who has been working with bikes for four years. A chain will quickly collect dirt and water which breaks down lubrication. Failure to arrest that process will break down the chain. The problem is par ticularly acute with 10-speeds, Hagerman says. Tires should be checked every week or so, says Hager man. Just like an auto tire, a bike tire that is under- or over-inflat ed wears quickly, and the owner will soon be shopping for a re placement. Other adjustments — to the brakes, wheels, handlebar or derailleur — can be handled without the aid of a bike shop. A set of wrenches, some screw drivers and a few special bike tools can be secured for $30-40. Most bikes are metric, but the owner should make sure before purchasing the wrenches. Although the initial invest ment in a tool kit may make the average student wince, Hager man emphasizes the kit will pay for itself by cutting down on trips to the shop. The key to self-repair is to become attuned to the "feel” of your bike, he says. The biker can then become aware of any strange sounds or sensations before they become serious. However, Hagerman does suggest that people bring in their bikes every six months for a tuneup and once a year for an overhaul. A tuneup includes adjusting the brakes, wheels and bear ings; checking the wheels for wobble; and oiling the brake cable. The operation, minus new parts, costs about $17.50, Hagerman says. An overhaul entails repacking or replacement of all bearings and costs about $35. The cost of replacement parts start at $5. Strangely enough, one of Hagerman's most constant tasks is fixing flat tires. “It's something most people should learn to do themselves.” The money comparison is simple enough — it costs $3 to fix a flat at the shop; it costs $3.50 for a patch kit and set of tire irons that will fix several flats. Hagerman suggests using the irons to remove the tire from the rim, rather than using a screwdriver. The latter's sharp edges could pinch the tube and put the repairer back at square one with another flat. WWW Bike owners who take the time to turn a wrench or tighten a screw can enjoy their bikes for many years, Hagerman says. “The better shape you keep it in, the more fun it is to ride and the more you’re going to ride it." By Jody Murray » M M M — 71 I Celebrate with , The Book Department ■ Barry Lopez, our celebrated local author, has created Winter Count — a fictional work of sensibility, power and extraordinary imagination. It is with great pleasure ! that The Book Department offers this fine new book to you at a special price. PLAYER OF THE MONTH Dean Crouser, a 21 -year old junior from Gresham, Oregon, was named Miller Player of the Month by U of O s track coach Bill Dellinger for his outstanding achievements in the discus and shot. Dean defeated NCAA champion, Gordon Svwenson with a throw of 205'11' at L S D awarding him the 3rd ranking discus record at Oregon ever — just 6 feet away from Oregon's school record set by Mac Wilkins Ray Burton, assistant coach, says though Dean takes his training very seriously, he is extremely outgoing, "97% joker" and truly the life of the party. Miller Brewing Company congratulates Dean Crouser and wishes him continued success! Watch for him at the NCAA meet, June 4th and 5th. PLAYER OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY THE MILLER BREWING COMPANY Dr Regularly $9.95 For a limited time only: $7.98 Upstairs in The Book Department Only at the UO Bookstore. UO 13th & Kincaid Mon-Fri 8:15-5:30 Sat 10:00-2:00 BOOKSTORE Textbooks 686-3520 • General Books 686-3510 • Supplies 686-4331
