In this episode of City Bike Fix, Finch tackles the frustrating issue of e-bike gears skipping or hesitating on busy city streets, explaining how dirt, road spray, and cable stretch cause delays after just weeks of daily commuting. Discover three quick at-home checks to restore smooth shifting before your next ride, plus tips for handling frequent stops and inclines without extra pedal force.

Key takeaways:
- Clean the rear derailleur and adjust the barrel shifter clockwise then counterclockwise in quarter turns for centered chain movement.
- Test high and low limit screws to prevent the chain from jumping off the cassette under load.
- Wipe pulleys, replace cables every 12-18 months, and inspect cassette teeth for wear if adjustments fail.
- Route housing in gentle curves and test shifts on a quiet block first.

These steps keep your commute steady and save money on repairs.

📩 Have questions or want to share your experience? Reach out at [email protected].
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In this episode of City Bike Fix, host Finch shares straightforward maintenance routines that restore reliable braking and shifting for city commuters facing constant stop-and-go traffic and rough pavement. Learn why urban conditions accelerate cable stretch, pad wear, and chain elongation, plus how quick weekly checks on brakes, derailleurs, and tire pressure can prevent surprise breakdowns on e-bikes carrying extra motor weight. Practical steps include cleaning grit from chains, applying wet-condition lube sparingly, and spotting hooked teeth on chainrings before they cause jumps under acceleration.

Key takeaways:
- Inspect brake pad thickness and cable movement first, then check rear derailleur pivots
- Wipe and lightly lube the chain after wet rides while monitoring for one percent stretch
- Replace pads when wear grooves vanish to protect rims and maintain stopping power
- Rinse salted roads and store indoors to avoid corrosion inside cables

These habits keep daily rides smooth without shop visits.
📩 Have questions or want to share your experience? Reach out at [email protected].
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In this episode of City Bike Fix, Finch breaks down essential DIY fixes every city commuter needs when daily rides hit trouble. From handling flat tires on busy streets to tuning spongy brakes, skipping gears, and securing against theft, this practical guide covers winter care and entry-level e-bike maintenance without needing a shop visit. Learn quick morning checks, on-the-road repairs, and habits that keep you rolling through rush hour and wet weather.

Key takeaways:
- Inspect tires daily for cuts or low pressure and carry a pump plus patch kit for quick fixes.
- Adjust brake cable tension with barrel adjusters and clean pads to restore stopping power.
- Fine-tune derailleur limit screws and wipe chains regularly to eliminate gear skipping.
- Use sturdy U-locks through frame and wheel, plus lubricant on mechanisms to deter theft.
- Wipe frames and batteries after slush rides while storing e-bikes indoors to prevent corrosion.

📩 Have questions or want to share your experience? Reach out at [email protected].
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