The warmer weather is here and with it comes spring bike riding! SooToday sat down with the folks at Algoma Bicycle Company to learn a bit more about cycling in Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding area.
Algoma Bicycle Company has been servicing the community of Sault Ste. Marie for over 15 years now and has a unique strategy to working in the industry, “Typically, at a bike shop, you have a mix of sales and service staff, but here at Algoma Bicycle all of our staff are mechanics as well. We really pride ourselves in our service knowledge,” says shop owner Brad Phaneuf. Phaneuf’s skilled mechanic staff is also how they are able to offer great turnaround times for bike service, where they guarantee bikes back within 24 hours of their appointment and typically a short lead time for booking appointments.
Algoma Bicycle Company also wants to empower others to learn how to fix their bikes. They offer mechanic workshops where you can book time individually, or as a group, to learn whatever skills you want to learn about bike maintenance – from basic roadside repair, to advanced tune ups and brake bleeds.
In partnership with the Sault Cycling Club, Algoma Bicycle will also be offering a FREE mechanic session on June 4th as part of “Bike to Work Week.” To participate, you just need a Sault Cycling Club membership. To register or become a member, check out the Sault Cycling Club Website.
Here are some spring tune-up tips from the team at Algoma Bikes!
How often should I tune up my bike?
AB: We recommend tuning up your bike at least once per season, but many folks will do a tune up before the start of the season and towards the end of the season. We also recommend bringing your bike in for a tune up if it’s making any irregular noises – sometimes if you catch a problem early it can help save some money down the road and avoid a more expensive repair.
We offer free tune ups for bikes purchased from us, which is a great deal seeing as a basic tune up is normally around 70$ plus tax. We also work on any bike brand, not just the ones we carry in-store.
My bike has tubeless tires, how often do I need to replace my sealant?
AB: At least once every 6 months.
How often do I need to lube my chain?
AB: It depends on the conditions you are riding in – the wetter and muddier the weather, the more frequently your chain will need maintenance. Even in nice weather, we recommend lubing your chain at least once a week.
To do this, start with a clean, ungreased chain. Use a bike-safe chain degreaser or cleaner to remove any debris and then apply a bike chain oil/lube to your chain. Wipe away any excess chain lube – otherwise this will attract more dirt and grime to your chain.
How much air pressure goes in my tires?
AB: Each tire is different. To find out how much pressure goes in your tires, read the sidewall of the tire. It will indicate a range for the PSI. You should always have at least the minimum recommended PSI in your tires to prevent pinching your tube or damaging the rim. For a more comfortable ride, you can ride closer to the lower-end of the PSI range, and for a faster ride, you can ride at a PSI closer to the maximum of the tire range.
Looking for a new bike?
Phaneuf and his team can also help advise you on the best bike for you for your money.
“It’s fairly common that our staff will even help customers compare bikes across shops in town to help them determine what the better buy is, even if it isn’t with us. Buying a bike can be a big investment and we want our customers to feel confident in the choice they are making,” notes Phaneuf. Algoma Bikes is also having a spring sale, with many of their bikes, including e-bikes on sale right now.
Have a bike question? Stop by the shop at 360 Queen Street E. or give them a call at 705-759-3443
For more details see their website at www.algomabikes.com
Did you know Algoma Bicycle Company:
- Has 24-hour turn around on bike service
- Can work on any bike brand
- Does FREE tune ups for life on bikes purchased from Algoma Bicycle Co (normally a 70$+ value per tune up)
- Offers mechanic workshops so you can learn how to fix your own bike!
For more details see their website at www.algomabikes.com