The Biking 103 session was conceived by the 5th Biking Exco as we saw the need for the team to have a better knowledge of the various bicycle components and able to DIY basic maintenance procedures. This is in line with our exco objectives for 2010- to evolve internally through acquiring of knowledge and skills.
Our Training Executive, Kelvin Liew, came up with the syllabus for the Biking 103 session. He liaised with the biking store Rodalink to have an experienced member of their staff to hold a 1-day course for us. On the morning of 23rd December 2010, the entire exco made our way to the Rodalink store at Jurong where we met our friendly instructor for the day- Najib.
We proceeded straight into the programmes, where Najib introduced us to the different types of bicycles, namely the road bikes, time-trial bikes, mountain bikes and the hybrid models. He showed us the major differences between the bikes and how to identify them. He also explained the mechanisms of the bikes and how they are suited for their various functions. We learnt how the suspension system of the bicycle works and how it helps to absorb the impact of bumpy roads to provide a smooth ride for us. To the surprise of a few of us, we also found out that some higher-end bikes have rear suspension systems too, which provides greater comfort and ease of riding.
Next, we dived into the detailed explanation for the components of the bicycle, such as the frame, the gear shifters, the front and rear brakes, the chain and chain rings, the front and rear derailleur. This was to ensure that we could identify each part of the bicycle clearly, which will help us in identifying any problems with bicycles and in its maintenance.
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Following which, Najib demonstrated to us the maintenance of the bike. Firstly, he taught us how to change the inner tube of the bike. This is an essential skill to all bikers as puncturing of the inner tube is not uncommon and knowing how to change it yourself can save you time and money. All of us then had the chance to try changing the inner tube ourselves. It was indeed an experience for the first-timers as we did our best to complete the task quickly, but we learnt quickly and were rather proficient by the end of the day.
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Secondly, we were taught basic skills such as adjusting the brakes to achieve its maximum braking ability and also how to clean the bikes using the correct types of lubricants. These are important knowledge to have as they concern our safety and durability of our bikes.
Thirdly, Najib explained to us the mechanics of tuning a bicycle. It was a complex process that certainly requires frequent practice to master. However, some of the more experienced bikers such as Kelvin and Gerald were able to catch on quickly and tried it on their own bicycles.
Finally, at the end of the session, our Training Executive, Kelvin, took us around the store to point out essential apparels like the helmet, gloves and jersey. In addition, safety items such as the front and rear light, mini-tools and tire levers were shown to us.
Overall, I felt that the Biking 103 session was a success as it introduced us to the basics of biking, allowing us to learn from the experts with hand-on practices. This session equipped the entire exco with the knowledge of basic bike maintenance, which we can pass on to our fellow team members. It is definitely a first step towards achieving our objective of evolving internally and externally.
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Written By:
Hwang Shih Haur
Assets Executive
5th Biking Team Exco
