pixel

Blog Post

Small Talk: Is Your Bike Ready for Spring?

March 30, 2024

The birds are coming out and so are cyclists across New York State. Spring is making its way to Buffalo and it’s time to tune up your wheels. Your bicycle has likely been gathering dust in the garage or basement and it’s in your best interest to make sure it’s in top shape before getting on the road. Investing in proper maintenance will save you time and money in the long run. Moreover, it’s the best way to prevent other problems, including breakdowns. Bike maintenance is a solid idea for all cyclists, whether you’re a casual rider or a competitive athlete. Follow along for easy care and maintenance to ensure your bike is ready to go wherever you take it.


First, use a soft cloth to wipe down the bike. Check the chain for rust or ordinary wear and tear. I just changed mine this year. It costs a few bucks but will make for a better ride. Check the wheels for uneven wear. You may need new ones – not the whole rim. Just the outer cover. Got air? That’s an easy one. Check the brake pads and make sure the tires are “true.” Does your handlebar tape need to be replaced? There are various wraps on the market that absorb vibration and make for a more comfortable ride. How about your lights: batteries charged? There’s a lot to think about before you just get on and ride. These are just a few.

 

Remember, under New York State law, if you are riding after dark or before dawn, your bike must be equipped with a headlight and taillight. Be visible! You might want to get a bell, too. Believe it or not, the Vehicle & Traffic Law requires one. 

You might also rely on the ABCs of bicycle care:


Air - Make sure your wheels have enough air to support your ride. To check, press down on your tires. They should be firm. If you’re unsure, you can use a pressure gauge and make sure the PSI on the gauge matches the recommended PSI on the side of the tire. Low or flat tires cause difficulty and unpredictability when steering your bike. Closely examine the wheels for any cracks in the rubber, rips along the seams, holes, or punctures by foreign objects such as nails or glass. Last, make sure everything is tight, no wobbles.


Brakes - It is crucial to ensure your brakes are functioning properly, from the handles, through the cables, and down to the brake pads. Routinely squeeze your handle brakes before riding to confirm they are gripping the brake pads and wheels as designed. Look closely for unusual wear and tear, fraying of any cables, or broken pieces that may need further attention from a repair shop. Inspect the rest of your bike for any safety issues or hazards, including loose parts or cracks in the frame.


Chain – It’s a good idea to add lubrication to the chain at the start of the season, especially after washing your bike. A smoother ride prevents malfunctions and can help avoid falls or accidents. Routine chain care will also prevent rust and delay the need for replacements.

Don’t forget to also check the condition of your helmet, glasses, shorts, shirts, sleeves, shoes, sunscreen, and any other accessories. It’s your responsibility to properly care for your bicycle (and yourself)!


If you think your bike needs further repair and attention than what you can do at home, visit a local repair shop. An annual check-up is recommended for best bicycle safety practices. We recommend visiting one of Tom’s Pro Bike Shop locations. They have shops in Lancaster, Orchard Park, and Rochester. Another great spot is Love N’ Sprockets, which has locations on Transit Road in East Amherst and Buffalo Street in Hamburg. If you’re located downtown, check out Rick’s Cycle Shop on Allen Street or Campus WheelWorks on Niagara Street. Stop in and these local bicycle experts would be happy to answer any questions you have about bicycle safety, best trails, or the cycling lifestyle at large. 

Bicycle Safety and Fun in Numbers
March 30, 2024
Bicycling can be intimidating. Whether on trails or in the city, try group biking. It has advantages: it may be safer than riding solo, it’s an opportunity to network, and see the sights around Western New York.
March 30, 2024
If you’re looking to connect with other bicyclists, shops, or even leave with a new ride, check out Western New York’s bike swaps. The next annual event will be held on Sunday, April 7 th at Resurgence Brewing Company on Chicago Street . The Swap is the best place to buy gently used parts, sell parts or bikes you may not use anymore, or even just talk bikes with fellow riders. This family-friendly event begins at noon and goes until 4pm. It’s a great place to keep up on current bike safety tips, trail recommendations, and bike maintenance. Check out the WNY Mountain Biking Association page for more information on buying and selling bicycles and parts at the event. If you have unused bicycles or parts you wish to donate, the association will take them after the event has ended. Their page also posts the biggest and best bicycle meet-ups and trail riding groups. It’s an easy way to make cycling friends and ride in numbers on trails and around the city. See our blog about upcoming group rides for more information.
October 10, 2023
Small Law Firm is a personal injury law firm serving Buffalo, NY. Click here to learn more about the things you need to know for your accident case.
May 2, 2023
A cool article in the Wall Street Journal last week triggered this quick blog. We all know that bicyclists have a few necessities. Some are for safety and some even required by New York law. Did you know that a “bike bell” is required by the New York VTL §1236? If you need one, look at the Spurcycle Bell, at Spurcycle.com, or at Amazon.com, for $32 and up. A helmet is required for those through age 14, according the VTL 1238(5), unless otherwise required by the locality you are in. See, giro.com, for a Giro Register, designed with an extra internal liner which can minimize the amount of rotational forces your head experiences in a crash. There are, of course, many options in this category. But we recommend them for all riders no matter the age. Along with each of the items in this blog, The Wall Street Journal also recommended a bike helmet mirror that is kind of cool looking and very adjustable. See, Safe Zone Helmet Mirror — Efficient Velo Tools (EVT) . (WSJ, 4/1/23, Off Duty, D15) Bike locks are worthwhile, too, if you worry about your bike being stolen from the local bike rack. So, for a really good lock, try The Kryptonite New-U New York, sold at REI.com. It’s very sturdy and a solid deterrent to taking your bike. But, if you want a “bike alarm” and want to track your bike if it is stolen, see, US.Knog.com, for the “Knog Scout”. This is a bike alarm and finder. Of course, there are many bike products on-line and in the bike stores similar to these. Find what you need and bike safely!
A Paraplegic on Skis
March 23, 2023
Last Friday, with the assistance of The Lounsbury Adaptive Ski Program at Holiday Valley, I made a positive difference in someone’s life.
February 28, 2023
Small Law Knows Bike Shops!
February 11, 2023
If you are looking for a winter activity but skiing and snowboarding isn’t for you, snowshoeing and Cross Country skiing are a great winter alternatives. No matter your skill level, experience all that WNY has to offer in the colder months and at one of the abundance of places the region has to offer.
By lemaster September 12, 2022
Cross in the Park
By lemaster August 25, 2022
The bicycle accident lawyers at The Small Law Firm have collected the top ten rules of bike riding. We assist clients in the Niagara Falls, NY region.
By lemaster August 9, 2022
The Buffalo Triathlon Club is alive and well. This past Thursday night, twenty riders embarked on a 16- mile time trial from Tonawanda Creek in North Amherst. Riders were released and sprinted to the finish. The time trial is a part of the triathlon training for these triathletes - male and female between the ages of 25 and 65. The training bikes being used by the athletes vary. A few ride hybrid style bikes; some are on traditional road bikes; and others are riding high-end carbon fiber triathlon racing bikes with built in aero bars in a forward leaning position. Wheel sets vary from deep dish rims to fully covered wheels. The helmets vary, too. Some Star Trek looking and some that you’d see on most riders. All wear moisture wicking bike shirts, some sleeveless and some not. And the shorts are form fitting - all the purpose of reducing wind resistance and improving comfort. It’s a conglomeration of athletes who all love the sport, training, and camaraderie. Small Law hosted dinner, Small Talk on New York Bike Law, and giveaways to a few lucky winners. Small Law can be reached at www.BuffaloBicycleAtty.com or via instagram at @smallawbba.
More Posts
Share by: