Should you buy a bicycle or a computer first?

If you have a budget to meet and you need transport to get you to school and a computer to do your school work, do you know what you should buy first?  A bicycle, of course.

Get one to cycle to the nearest public library to get yourself registered for a library card. As a member, you may even be able to reserve a computer to use for your school work.

A steel frame bicycle without gears is definitely more affordable than a computer. You can buy the cheapest bicycle and it can still take you where you want to go. 



But if pay for a low end computer, you will not be able to do your school work as quickly or as efficiently as you would like.  Why lead such a frustrating life walking or taking a bus to school when you can have some fun between your legs?

How can you ride a bicycle without getting tired?

Cycling will not be so tiring if you are able to eliminate the issues you faced. I share here some reasons why you will feel more tired than you should while cycling:

1) You are cycling on a bicycle with the wrong frame size for your height.
2) It could also be that the handlebar reach is either too near or too far for you.
3) Or you may have set your seatpost too low.
4) Your tyres are not fully inflated to run efficiently.
5) You are not using your gears right.
6) The gradient of the roads you chose to cycle on are too steep.
7) You are trying to catch up with fellow riders who have better stamina or who are more efficient cyclists.

If you are cycling on a bicycle with the wrong frame size and you do not intend to replace it, here are minor changes you can make to it that will ease the strains of cycling which will make you tired.
Most stems come in length of 32mm right up to 80mm. If the handlebar reach is too far for you, you can use a stem with shorter length as it will bring the handlebar closer to you.



If you would like to remove the strains on your shoulders and arms which can tire you out, you can consider installing an adjustable handlebar stem as it will also allow you to sit in a more upright position.

However, if you are cycling on an old bike that uses quill stem, there are extra long models in the market which will increase the height of the handlebar for easy reach so that you can sit in a more upright position.


Your seatpost height must be adjusted so that when you sit on the saddle, your knee is slightly bent while the ball of your foot is resting on the pedal at its lowest position.

Try to inflate your tyres to the maximum PSI shown on its sidewall for a smoother ride.



Make sure that you use tyres with the correct threads for the right terrain you are cycling on. For urban ride, slick tyres like the one shown in the above photo will be more efficient.

Knobby tyres that are usually installed on MTB will be more suitable for rougher terrain.



Learn how to change your gears efficiently so that you will not have to struggle uphill. Avoid cycling over bridges or through routes that are hilly which can tire you out faster than you should. Routes with lower gradients will also put less strains on your body.

If you plan to cycle in a group, check to see if fellow riders are cycling on MTB or roadbike or Hybrid or Fatbike or folding bikes. Try to match what they are cycling on as different types of bicycles have different wheel sizes and tyre threads for different terrains.

Frankly speaking, whatever exercise you do, unless you are doing it half halfheartedly, you should feel some form of fatigue and tiredness. You should feel tired as some exertions in strength is involved in moving your bicycle.

The weather can also wear you out if you are cycling under the hot sun or under a heavy shower without the proper attire and protection. The stress of keeping yourself safe on the road while cycling can also tire you out. If you don’t want to feel tired at all, stop your bicycle for a rest more often and avoid routes that will stress you.

What are the best tips to maintain a bike in the proper way?

When you buy an equipment, a manual will be provided with it. A good manual will provide instructions on how to install the equipment correctly. It will provide information on how to use it safely and maintain it so that it will run efficiently.

Even though not all brands/retailers for bicycles will provide such a manual, if you google “owner's manual for bicycle” you should not have any problem in finding one online. From it, you can even learn if you are getting the right frame size for your height.

Though you get your bicycle fully assembled from your bike shop, in the manual you will learn how it is assembled and the type of tools and the sizes you need to do the job. That way if any of the parts are loosen, you will know how to fix it back correctly and with the right tools.

You will learn the name of the parts on the bicycle which will enable you to tell the mechanic clearly what needs to be fixed if professional help is required. This image is from link to “Owner's Manual for Marin Mountain Bikes”.


It provides a schedule on what and when you should clean, service and lubricate on your bicycle and what you should not do. Eg, here is a tip on how to set your gears so that you will not wear out your chain earlier than it should.

I like the instruction manual provided by Green Line for its Single-speed and Multi speed Beach Cruisers, it provides very clear information with lots of images.



The “Owner's Manual Single Speed and Multi-Speed Bicycles” from Dynacraft Bikes that I found online is also very good.

If you take the time to read the manual, you should not have any problem maintaining your bicycle in a proper way.

Do you think riding a bike should not be allowed where there is no bike lane?

Cycling started, from the beginning of invention, the world over, without bicycle lanes.

While there is concern that lack of lanes make cycling unsafe on roads, there are also issues with safety even when they are in place because there is no protection for cyclists if behaviour of car drivers and other road users do not change.

No Surprise: Study Finds Sharrows Don't Make Streets Safer

Based on this Infographic, posted on Forbes, it is obvious that there are less road fatalities reported for cyclists in a country when there are more people are involved in cycling.


So, the best way to initiate cycling in your own country is to start a movement, whereby, a group of cyclists make a commitment to make cycling safe with the support of their government so that cycling-specific infrastructure should be part of the development and proper guidelines for all road users are reinforced by the relevant government agencies.

If you would like to work on that, I have shared many useful links in the following write up on, "How can public transportation be integrated for urban cycling?”

Following are links to bike movements that you can emulate to increase participation:
About CicLAvia
Midnight Ridazz Bicycle Ride
List of rides from The Critical Mass - Cycling as a Political Statement

Finding ways to integrate cycling with public transport

The first thing to do is to make it safe for cyclists to use public roads. So, cycling-specific infrastructure, such as, bicycle lanes should be part of the development by government agencies.



Since it is not possible to go long distances on a bicycle, cyclists will consider utilising public transport part of the way.



Would you be comfortable parking your bicycle in an open space environment like this?



If bicycles are not allowed to be brought up public transport during peak period, there must be allocated parking spaces that have been enhanced to prevent theft and the elements of nature that could damage bicycles.

Once these issues are looked into, there are many ways to integrate cycling with public transport. The good thing is that you do not have to crack your head for answers.

If you google "public transport and cycling", you will find many reports and studies made on integrating cycling with public transport. Reading them will inspire you to discover ways to adopt some of the ideas for your own country.

These are some I found by searching "public transport and cycling":

Integrating cycling with public transport

Public transport and cycling: living apart or together?

Another way to find more of such reports is to google “intermodality bicycle”. These are links I found through that search.

Cycling and Intermodality

Bikeways and intermodality between bicycles and public transport 

What is the best bike for a child age 5?

If you know the age of the child, you can refer to this "bicycle chart" to determine the right wheel size bicycle to buy.  A 16" wheel size bicycle will be suitable for a child age 5.

Note that if you get the child a 12” bicycle when he should be riding on a 16”, his legs will ache due to fatigue as the saddle is too close to the handlebar for him to ride comfortably. He will often stand on the pedals to cycle to ease the ache. The PVC pedals installed will not be able to withstand his full weight on them. So, if you have to replace the pedals frequently, you will know that the child has outgrown his bicycle or you have bought the wrong size bike. 

Bicycles with wheel size of 12” right up to 16” will have training wheels already installed on them. There are also 12″ bicycle with removable rod attached so you can hold on to the rod while the child learns to ride.

This is very helpful when it is time to remove the training wheels as the child may still need support.  Without the rod, you may have to lean over to hold on to the handlebar and saddle to assist the child.

If you opt for a 12” balance bike you will have to note the age range the model is suitable for. Example, the JDBug models I carry is suitable for children age 2.5 to 5 years and can take a rider’s weight load of up to 30kg. There is also an option to install pedals when these are required at a later stage. So, if you decide to get a balance bike, you will have to study what is suitable for a child age 5.

I noticed that children enjoy choosing bicycles in my shop. They will try to find the kind of bicycles that their friends are cycling. They will be even happier if they can find bicycles in colours of their choice or with cartoon characters they like.

If it is possible, bring the child to a bikeshop.  Let him sit on the bicycle of his choice. Does he feel comfortable on it? Is the bicycle too big and heavy for him? You will know that it is not suitable if he has difficulty pedaling it.

There are a great variety of bicycles for kids in the market. Make sure that the regular bicycle you choose comes with mudguards and a bell attached. The child will be able to sit in a more upright position if you get him a bicycle installed with BMX handlebars like this.

Add front and rear lights if he intends to ride out at night. If it is within your budget, also provide the child with a protector set.

How could I know my bike registration number?

This is usually the location on your bicycle where the serial numbers are engraved.



Bike Index is a website cofounded by Seth Herr and Bryan Hance in 2013. If you check out their website, you will see other areas on your bicycle where you can locate its serial number.

Keep a record of any serial numbers that you can see on your bicycle as it will be easier for you to claim ownership if your stolen bicycle is found. You can get involved with stopping bike theft by reporting bicycles that have been stolen or by reporting shops that you know sell parts from stolen bicycles at Bike registry.

What's the best way to teach my little sister to ride her bike?

Most balance bikes can take weight load of up to 20kg. Another option to balance bike for a child who is older and heavier is the Scoot and Ride which can take a weight load of 50kg.



The best part about Scoot and Ride is that you can also use it as a scooter.

For a child 6 years and above, you can also consider getting a 12", 16" or 20″ alloy folding bike for her to practice on. An alloy folding bike being lighter than a steel bike will be easier for her to handle.


The toptube of a folding bike is low so she will not be hurt if she falls as both her legs will be touching the floor. Lower the seatpost so that she can walk while sitting on the bike.

Bring her to a park with grassy slopes and let her slide down on the foldie. As the bike builds up its momentum as it rolls down the slope, it will be easier for her to learn to balance herself before she starts pedaling.

This video shows how adults are taught to ride on a folding bike which will give you a better idea of how it can be done.

What is bike servicing?

Did you keep the “Owner’s manual and Technical Handbook” that came with the bicycle you purchased? Some brands do supply that.



You should try to service your bicycle by referring to the schedules noted in the manual. Eg, some parts like your chain, derailleurs, brake levers and brake calipers need to be lubricated on a weekly basis, while other components on a monthly or yearly basis. However, if you enjoy cycling in the rain, you will have to lubricate moving parts more often. These are servicing that you can easily do on your own if you are able to buy the correct lubricants for the components.




The more you ride, the more frequent maintenance for moving parts or components that are not running as efficiently will be required. It is best that you send your bicycle to a professional bicycle shop if you have doubts about your experience or ability to properly disassemble to repair or maintain your bicycle. Moreover, some components, such as, the suspension fork and parts on drivetrain or wheels are difficult to disassemble to fix or replace parts as special tools are required.

If you are planning a long ride or you are participating in an event, sending your bicycle to the shop will enable the mechanic to check if any parts are loose or missing or need to be replaced. They will also inform you if your gears need to be set if they are not shifting efficiently. A good bike shop will also lubricate moving parts on your bicycle and clean it up for you on your request.

You can also check with your bike shop what they will do for you if you send your bicycle in for full servicing. Then decide if it is time for your bicycle to go through these services. You may have to leave the bicycle at the shop for more than a day.

Regular maintenance services and adjustments that you can carry out on your own or with the help of a mechanic from a bike shop will keep the bicycle in good operating condition.

Which one is the best balance bike for my toddlers?

Not all balance bikes are built the same. Some are more expensive than the other.

Through my experience selling JDBug Balance Bike, though it is indicated that child of age 2.5 years can start ridding on it, so far, only 3 years old kids are tall enough to ride. This is because the average height of Asian children is lower than that of children from Europe.



Read up on the material used to produce the balance bike. If it is made of steel will your child be hurt if he or she keeps falling while riding on it because it is heavier? It is best to bring your child to the shop selling the balance bike you are interested in to give it a test ride. Find out the maximum weight load it can take and the warranty period extended. Ask if there are replacement parts for it, especially for the tyres and tubes. Ask if they of common size so that you can easily find them in other bike stores near your home.

I noticed that quite a number of kids still can’t ride without the training wheels attached though they are old enough to ride a 20″ bike. Here is an option for children too tall to learn to ride with a balance bike.

This is the Scoot and Ride which has worn the Toy Award in 2015. It can take a weight load of 50kg.


Once your child no longer needs it as a push/balance bike, he or she can continue ridding it as scooter, possibly even after age 15.

How much air should I have in my fixie bike tyres?

Try to maintain the correct inflation pressure in your tube to lower the risk of punctures. Look at the inflation recommendations marked on the sidewall of your tyre and pump your tube to the pressure within that range.

If you are aiming for speed, you can inflate your tube right up to the maximum PSI indicated as that will help to reduce the rolling resistance of the tyre.

For better grip, you can let out some air for a more comfortable ride, especially when it is raining. Remember not go below the minimum PSI range recommended as the inner tube can get pinched between the rim and the tyre which can cause punctures.

If you enjoy riding your fixie downhill, during descents, use your brakes in an on-and-off fashion to prevent the rim from been heated up as that could expand the air in your tube and cause a tyre blow-off. That is a good reason not to over inflate your tube.

If you visit Schwalbe’s website, you will find a tyre pressure chart calculated based on body weight.

Some companies supply their pumps with a PSI chart attached. So, for fixie tyre of size 700x28C, if you can’t read the markings on your tyre, it is safe to pump your tube right up to 73 PSI .

What are the most bicycle-friendly countries?

Here is a list of "75 Most Bike Friendly Cities In The World".  Read it to discover why each city was chosen as being bicycle friendly in their country.

You can also check out the top 20 cities, listed by COPENHAGENIZE DESIGN COMPANY, a design consultancy based in Copenhagen. They also provide information on what changes can be made for improvement.

Bicycle for Timid Riders

What should you be riding if you have not been cycling for a while?  Especially, if you are a female rider who lacks confidence but would like to take your wee one for a ride with you.

First, you need to know the type of child seat that are available in the market.

I noticed that mothers with younger children tend to prefer child seats that can be mounted in front of the bicycle.

You have to think about the safety of your child by ensuring that your feet will land on the ground to hold the bicycle steady, should you fall. Choose a bicycle by standing over the top tube, just in front of your saddle.  Is it too close to your crotch for comfort?  If it is, check out another bike.

If you like the old school look, a cruiser bike is what you should check out next.  Here is a very good example of a 26" bicycle suitable for a less confident mummy who intends to ride with her child.

The handlebar of a cruiser bike is usually wider so the child will not feel squeezed between your arms as you cycle.  It also comes installed with mudguards.  It rains all year round in Malaysia.  You do not want your child splattered with mud after a rainfall, do you?

Similar frame mounted child carrier and breach cruiser for female or male riders can be purchased from Amazon.

Child Seat for your Bicycle

Do you know that some child seats will require you to install a rear carrier before you can even install them on your bicycle?  Just make sure that the ones you select are right for the weight of your child.



Some child seats are supplied with the carriers required to mount on the bicycle.

There are also some models that are frame mounted.  Here is one that you can mount in front of you so that you can monitor a younger child closely.

Now that you know what is in the market, ask your bike shop what kind of bicycle you should choose to have it installed on.  Be honest.  Admit it if you are a timid rider.

Kids' bikes are here

Just received these.  Cute for age 4-5.

Sweet for the young lady in the house with basket and carrier installed.

Not forgetting the boys looking for the sporty bike.

See anything you like?

Roof mounted bike carrier, OK?

A customer was here. He sold his car and wanted to know how to remove the Thule OutRide 561 installed so that he can keep it for his next.

I found this video on YouTube on how to install one, thinking that we can work in reverse to have it removed.

   

In the end? The customer decided to leave it for the new owner.

Following are the disadvantages another customer, who had a roof mounted bike carrier installed, shared with me. He said:

1) roof mounted ones are more expensive, especially if, your car don't have a crossbar already mounted. Not having a crossbar means that you need to buy one with mounts and clips that attach to either the door frame or roof gutters on the car which can end up scratching the roof.

2) some models (like this Thule OutRide 561), need the wheels removed in order to be stored.

3) it is not so easy to manage if your bicycles are heavy and you are not tall or strong enough to lift bikes up the carrier.

His last warning to me was that, if I don't want my customers to hate me, don't sell them roof mounted bike carrier!

Why did he say that?  As the tallest and strongest in the family, he is the only one who is able to lift and store all the bikes after a tiring ride with the family.