Owning a bike and cycling it to work, for exercise or just for pleasure can be an extremely fun, rewarding and healthy experience. People everywhere love how cycling is not only good for your body and environmentally friendly, but also cost efficient and a great way to spend your time. On the flipside, while owning, maintaining and using a bicycle isn’t half as expensive, stressful or as much work as a car, there is a lot you need to know and learn, especially if you’re just starting out. To help, we have 18 smart and quick bike tips you need to know.

1. DIY Spoke Replacement

This is actually a pretty simple fix. Remove the tire and then the rim tape before taking off the broken spoke’s nipple (being careful not to lose it). In order to get the right replacement spoke, you can take out an intact one and use it as a measure. Thread the new spoke back in and seal with the nipple. Replace the rim tape and reattach the wheel!

18. Get Your Riding Position Sorted

Cycling won’t be much fun or comfortable if your saddle isn’t at the right height or if your handlebars are set up all wrong. Your bike needs to also be the right size for you. To find the right frame, straddle the bike and stand flat-footed. On a road bike, there should be 1-2 inches of clearance between your groin and the top tube. On a mountain bike, the clearance should be at least 2 inches.Your handlebars should be 1 inch lower than your seat top.

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