- Max Trip Size: 8 people
Would you like to be capable of making basic repairs or adjustments to your bicycle (or be aware of when to have it serviced at a bike shop)? Understand how to tweak your position on the bike to feel more comfortable? Learn how to confidently tackle hills?
**While this trip/activity is full, if you are interested in something like this on the West Metro side, please email Tom: [email protected] He is gauging interest for another trip. Thank you.
Then come to this hands-on session on Saturday, June 25 to learn and practice. We’ll then cycle approximately half of the Brown’s Creek State Trail and the full St. Croix River Crossing Trail in the Stillwater area (for an approximate total of 15 miles), getting to practice new skills while descending an 8% grade into Stillwater. There are multiple options for food in town if the group desires to stop.
Route overview: Beginning and ending at Brown’s Creek Park (McKusick Rd. & Neal Ave.) on the Brown’s Creek State Trail (also labeled Coldwater Stop by the DNR). 8312 Neal Ave. N., Stillwater, MN 55082.
https://www.discoverstillwater.com/things-to-do/biking-hiking-trails/#gallery-1
Here’s what will be covered:
Wheel & tire removal and inner tube repair
–You will practice removing your wheels and tires
-You will learn how to prepare & apply an inner tube patch. (I will bring glue, patches and old tubes so you don’t have to puncture your own!)
Choosing tire pressure
–High vs. low(er) pressure
Brake pad adjustment
–What is proper, safe adjustment?
-How to compensate for brake pad wear
Gear shifting adjustments
–How you can restore crisp shifting
Handlebar & seat adjustments
–Plus alternative component choices if the adjustments don’t help
Hill climbing & descending
–Strategies & skills for the ups and downs
There are bathrooms at this trailhead, but unclear about water (but available at other points on the bike ride). There is a public bike repair stand that we can utilize.
To bring (if you have them): tire levers, patch kit, bike multi-tool with hex wrenches. Otherwise, I will have some to share.