Much of our Bunch fam joins us as bike newbies. We're not avid cyclists or bike experts - we just want to get around with our kids!
I've been Bunching for 4 years now and 16,000+ miles and if I'm honest, the only bike component I could readily name and identify when I started was the wheel. 😂
Of course, some Bunch owners are avid cyclists and enthusiastic amateur mechanics who love upgrading and hacking their components.
But for the rest of us, a great local bike shop or mobile mechanic takes care of the bike details for us - so that we can just get out and ride!
We created the DIY scale below to help you figure out which maintenance tasks are right for you - and which you should outsource to a professional.
Blue: Super easy!
- Uses basic tools or no tools at all
- Simple instructions or no instructions
- No need to get it exactly right
- No need to get into any hard-to-access areas
- Takes 10 minutes or less... maybe a lot less!
Examples: Removing a cargo bench; installing a side view mirror; swapping the front panel; installing a Melia seat with predrilled holes
Blue tasks are accessible to almost all owners.
Green: Easy DIY
- Uses basic tools (screwdriver, wrench) or no tools
- Simple instructions or no instructions
- May require some trial and error
- May require getting into a harder-to-access area
- May take 15-20 minutes
Examples: Replacing a display screen, reconnecting a sensor or motor wire, installing a wheel lock
Green tasks are accessible to most owners to complete at home.
Yellow: Medium DIY
- May use hand tools (screwdriver, wrench) or power tools (drill)
- May require following written or video instructions or learning a new skill
- May require careful measurement or adjustment
- May be possible to "mess up" in a way that requires followup
- May require getting into hard-to-reach areas
- May take up to an hour
Examples: Replacing a flat tire and then readjusting the brakes; installing a Melia or BabyMee seat; installing LED lights; installing horn/alarm
Some owners complete yellow tasks at home, others prefer to tag in a mechanic or bike shop.
Orange: Challenging DIY
- May require hand tools, power tools, or specialized bike repair tools
- May require following complex instructions
- Instructions may not be provided, or may assume familiarity with common bike repair tasks
- May be possible to "mess up" in a way that poses a hazard or damages the bike
- May take more than an hour
Examples: Replacing brake pads or rotors; bleeding brakes; replacing cargo box; replacing rear wheel
Most owners bring orange tasks to a bike shop or mechanic. Only the most confident DIY lovers should attempt these tasks at home.
Red: Professionals Only
- Requires specialized tools
- Requires experience and expertise
- Correct execution is essential to safe operation of the bike
Examples: Replacing brake; replacing a spoke; truing the wheel; servicing the main pivot.
As the name suggests - red tasks should only be completed by a qualified, experienced mechanic or bike shop. Installation should be thoroughly tested before the bike is returned to you.
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