Is this used bike a good deal?

If you're considering buying a bike but are on a budget, a used bike can be an excellent option.  We have a lot of used bikes on hand but not necessarily something in every category. When we have the right bike, you can save money and get a bike with a solid warranty.  If you're looking for a used bike on Facebook Marketplace or through a private seller there are a few things to consider before making that purchase. In this blog post, we'll explore four crucial things to look for when buying a used bike. Following these tips will help you find a reliable and well-maintained bicycle without compromising on quality.

1.  Overall Condition

Before committing to a used bike, the first thing you should assess is its overall condition. Take a close look at the frame, wheels, and components for any signs of wear, damage, or rust. A well-maintained bike will have minimal scratches, and the frame should be free from any cracks or fractures. Check that the wheels are straight, meaning they don't wobble when spun. Inspect the tires for excessive wear or any cuts, and ensure they hold proper air pressure.  If the frame has any dents in it, you will want to avoid purchasing this bike.  Dents can lead to catastrophic frame failure. Inspect the drivetrain, including the chain, cassette, and chainrings, for signs of wear. Worn components an be costly to replace and indicate potential neglect. If possible, ask for the bike's maintenance history to better understand how well it has been taken care of.

2.  Smooth Gear Shifting and Braking

Test the bike's gear shifting and braking systems before making a decision. Ensure that the gears shift smoothly and responsively through all the ranges. Listen for any grinding or unusual noises, which could indicate underlying issues. Similarly, test the brakes thoroughly. The brake levers should engage smoothly and provide ample stopping power. Inspect the brake pads for wear, and if they look overly worn or damaged, consider negotiating a lower price to accommodate replacement costs.

3. Proper Bike Fit

A properly sized bike is essential for comfort, efficiency, and safety during rides. When considering a used bike, make sure it is the right size for your body. When riding the bike, check if your leg has a slight bend at the bottom of the pedal stroke, as this indicates a suitable seat height. Ensure that you can comfortably reach the handlebars without straining your back or arms.  If you're going short distances then you can sit more upright.  If you're going longer distances you may want your back angle to be at 45 degrees.

4. Test Ride

Always take the used bike for a test ride before making a purchase. A test ride will help you get a feel for the bike's handling, comfort, and performance. Pay attention to how it rides on various terrains and road conditions.  While riding, listen for any unusual noises, such as creaking or clicking, which could indicate mechanical issues. Test the bike's stability during turns and its ability to handle rough roads or bumps smoothly.

Conclusion

Buying a used bike  can be a budget-friendly way to embark on your cycling journey. However, it's crucial to be cautious and look for specific aspects when making your selection. Inspecting the bike's overall condition, assessing the gear shifting and braking systems, ensuring a proper bike fit, and taking it for a test ride are essential steps to finding a reliable and well-maintained used bike.

Remember, we're here to help.  If you find something you're interested in purchasing from a private party ask them if you can bring it to Spoke-n-Sport to have it inspected.  We can identify all the problem areas of the bike.  Worn out tires are simple to repair but products known for their failure might be more challenging for most consumers to spot.  Call ahead to set up an appointment for us to check out your (hopefully) new ride.

Is Electronic Shifting the Future?

Embrace the Future of Cycling with SRAM AXS Electronic Shifting Systems

In the ever-evolving world of cycling technology, SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems have emerged as a revolutionary solution, transforming the way riders experience shifting gears. By combining cutting-edge wireless technology, seamless integration, and unmatched performance, SRAM AXS is setting new standards for efficiency and precision. In this blog post, we will explore the incredible benefits of SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems and how they can elevate your cycling experience to new heights.

Unparalleled Shifting Performance

The SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems offer precise and lightning-fast gear changes, ensuring an incredibly smooth and effortless shifting experience. With the elimination of mechanical cables, the shifting process becomes highly reliable and consistent, allowing for precise and immediate gear changes, even under the most demanding conditions. The intelligent design of SRAM AXS ensures quick and accurate shifts, reducing the chances of mis-shifts or chain drop, and providing a seamless riding experience.

Wireless Freedom and Simplicity

Gone are the days of tangled cables and complex setups. SRAM AXS utilizes a wireless connection between the shifters and derailleurs, providing unparalleled freedom and simplicity in bike setup. This eliminates the need for cable routing, resulting in a cleaner and more aerodynamic bike appearance. Additionally, the absence of cables reduces the overall weight of the bike, making it lighter and more responsive. The wireless technology also enables easy customization and adjustment of shifting preferences, allowing riders to tailor their shifting experience to their specific needs and riding style.

Enhanced System Integration

SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems are designed to seamlessly integrate with other components of the drivetrain, providing a holistic and cohesive cycling experience. The AXS ecosystem allows for the integration of components such as power meters, dropper posts, and suspension systems, enabling riders to control multiple functions with a single button press. This integration not only simplifies the bike setup but also enhances overall performance and functionality, making the riding experience more intuitive and efficient.Intelligent 

Battery Management

One of the standout features of SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems is its intelligent battery management system. The system incorporates advanced power-saving technologies, ensuring long battery life and minimizing the risk of power depletion during rides. The batteries are easily rechargeable, and their status can be monitored conveniently through the AXS app or compatible bike computers. With SRAM AXS, riders can focus on their cycling adventures without worrying about battery life, knowing that the system will reliably perform throughout their ride.

Personalized Experience and Future-Proof Design

SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems offer riders the ability to personalize and fine-tune their shifting experience according to their preferences. Through the AXS app, riders can customize shift mapping, adjust the behavior of components, and even receive firmware updates to keep their system up to date with the latest advancements. The future-proof design of SRAM AXS ensures that riders can enjoy the benefits of cutting-edge technology for years to come, without the need for complete system overhauls.

SRAM New Type T Transmission

The SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems represent a groundbreaking leap forward in cycling technology. With their unparalleled shifting performance, wireless simplicity, enhanced system integration, intelligent battery management, and personalized experience, they have redefined the standards of gear shifting. Whether you are a professional racer seeking that extra edge or a passionate cyclist looking for a more enjoyable ride, SRAM AXS electronic shifting systems have the power to transform your cycling experience and take it to new heights. Embrace the future of cycling and unlock the full potential of your ride with SRAM AXS.

Start thinking about your next bike upgrade.  Start shopping for your SRAM AXS upgrade at www.snsbikes.com today!

Cheap bike trip insurance....trust me on this

I hope you never experience this.

You're on a bike trip that took you months to coordinate with your friends. Maybe you bought matching jerseys. Maybe you haven't seen them in years and this was a time to catch up while on bikes taking in the beautiful scenery.  The sun's warmth, the windy roads the trails.  Everything is perfect....until it happens.

You're pedaling up that hill when you shift and you hear that noise.  CRACK!  It's followed by sounds of metal on metal and carnage.  Maybe a few expletives.  You just broke your derailleur hanger.  There are other ways it happens.  Maybe your bike falls over or maybe someone runs into you but at the very least, your derailleur hanger is doing what it's supposed to.  It's supposed to break or bend before greater damage can be done to your bike.  Regardless, it's not fun.  How will you be able to continue your epic ride?

In the 90's when more bike companies started making their frames out of softer more malleable aluminum, they needed a way to reduce frame damage.  The replaceable derailleur hanger was born.  The idea was the hanger was cheaper and easier to repair than the entire frame.  Before aluminum, frames were made of steel.  My thoughts on steel....well....I don't wear skinny enough jeans or drink enough IPA to be an authority on steel.  

Wheels Manufacturer is the largest manufacturer of after market derailleur hangers.  They print this poster and distribute it to bike stores.  It has over 250 different hangers for various brands and models of bikes.  If you go to their website, they have over 500 derailleur hangers to choose from.  

At any given time, how many of these do you think your local bike store carries?  

At any given time, how much space and resources do you think your tour mechanic is going to devote to having a hanger for your 90s road bike you bought in college?  

Probably not a lot.  Probably zero.

Most shops just carry the current hangers and maybe a few left overs.

Now for the insurance part.  If you have a big biking trip coming up.  Buy a spare hanger and throw it in your gear with you.  You might break chains, bend wheels or snap forks.  Those challenges are usually easier to solve.  A derailleur hanger is usually 2 or 3 days away from any bike shop.  Just buy one and throw it in your and hopefully you'll never need to use it.  

Your cost for this insurance is cheap.  Much cheaper than canceling a weeks worth of riding with your people.

TLDR:  When you're planning bike trips, buy derailleur hangers for your bikes just in case.

Great stretches to help your body before and after skiing

We asked our friend Cole Nelson, fitness manager for GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness Club, to give us a few pointers on how to stretch before and after a glorious day of skiing. 

Here's Cole:

As the temperature starts to dip, and our thoughts go to snow, the excitement starts to build for the upcoming ski season. Having a good, solid cardiovascular and strength base is imperative as we prep for those exciting days on the mountain.

Cole Nelson

What about the day-of? We will address some of the best day-of pre-ski and post-ski exercises to help reduce fatigue and soreness and maximize your enjoyment on the mountain.

No matter how well conditioned you are, proper fitting boots and equipment is a must. Ill-fitting boots can cause premature ankle, calf, and quad fatigue and increase the risk of injury due to lack of control.

Pre-Ski Warm Up

Don’t count on walking your snow equipment from the car to the base of the lift as a “warm up”! Take the time to prepare your body.

Swing one leg forward and backward to loosen hips. Keep your leg relaxed with the big movements to warm up the body. Some light lateral hops and body weight squats work well for a quick dynamic warm up to get your heartrate slightly elevated and blood flowing through your muscles. 

Start with 15-20 body weight squats and then move on to 10-20 lateral hops per side.

Next, I’d recommend alternating reverse lunges to target the quads, glutes, and hip flexors. Do 10 each side.

Moving to a total lower body stretch, place one leg behind you, knee straight and heel flat. Lunge onto your forward leg keeping trunk upright, stretching the behind leg’s calf and hip flexor holding for 30 seconds. Repeat on the opposite side.

It is important to stretch your quads. Stand tall and bring one heal up toward your glutes. Use a ski pole or railing to stabilize yourself and grab your toe pulling in towards your glute getting a nice stretch in the quad. Hold for 30 seconds and switch legs.

Finally, prepare your trunk by standing, feet firmly planted (slightly more than hip width apart) and twist trunk by swinging your arms side to side, loosening the spine. Shoulders: Big sweeping arm circles on each side.

Post-Ski Stretches

Be sure to get your quads and trunk stretched out as described above! Add in, hamstrings: standing, cross legs and fold at the waist feeling a nice stretch in the back legs hamstring. Hold for 30 seconds and switch legs. 

Lastly, deep hip rotators. Sitting, cross one ankle over the other knee and sit up, slightly bend forward for a deep hip stretch. If you have access to a foam roller roll out your glutes, front and back of the legs, and calves. Enjoy a nice hot tub or hot springs après ski with friends and as always, remember to hydrate properly! 

A few thoughts about riding in the fall

Fall riding is the best riding. 

Maybe it's easier to say that because it's fall and we still want to ride our bikes as long as possible. But there's no denying the appeal of cooler temps and the wonderful light of a late afternoon. 

Spoke-n-Sport Tuthill: How it all began

One year ago we opened up Spoke-n-Sport Store #3 (store #2 is in Brookings). It has been such a crazy trip. Here's where it started.

About six years ago we started dreaming a bit bigger. If Spoke-n-Sport were to add another location in town, where would we add it and what would it look like? We did the most logical thing, we opened up a map. We had some criteria. It had to be accessible by bike trail. It had to serve the community that it was in. 

Tuthill Trail Fest - It's more than a bike race

It's hard to remember what it was like in Sioux Falls before we had miles and miles of single track for off-road biking. 

Well, it's not that hard because it hasn't been that long. Which is amazing when you think about what the Falls Area Single Track group has accomplished since those early days at Leaders Park.