Super Eco

Photo credit: kikashi, stock.xchng

Despite the weather outside still being frightful, imagine yourself pedalling around town on your bike this spring—delightful! Dig your faithful wheels out of storage now for a pre-spring tuneup, so you'll be ready to roll at the first hint of sunshine.

Do-it-yourselfers can take advantage of the many online tutorials for tinkering and tuning. (See a few of our favorites at BikeWebsite.com, Instructables.com's video tuneup guide or the Oklahoma Bicycle Society's tuneup checklist.) Here are the basics (from TotalBike.com) that should be on your tune-up checklist:

• Cleaning and inspection Use an old toothbrush and a biodegradable cleaner such as Simple Green.
• Brake system Check the brake pads and cables for wear.
• Wheels Clean and check for wobbles.
• Drivetrain Check, lubricate and adjust the derailleurs and chain.
• Tires Check tires and tubes for splits, cracks or tears in the sidewall.
• Cables If you ride year around, replace brake and/or derailleur cables annually.
• Lube Lubricate pivot points.

If you're not a do-it-yourselfer, February is a great time to build relationships and get great service from your local bike shop. Undoubtedly still in the off-season doldrums, they'll be very happy to see you! Expect to pay $30-50 and up for a tune-up.

Finally, we're big believers in making eco-friendly activities (like bike commuting) more enjoyable, to ensure you'll engage more often. Shop now for accessories that'll brighten your spirits.

• Tote your stuff in sturdy panniers, or indulge in a charming bike basket (matching ones for little girls at Magic Cabin).
• Keep your pants out of the greasy chain with a leg band (or repurpose an old elastic headband).
• Stay hydrated with no toxic BPAs with a BPA-free water bottle.
• Protect your noggin with an approved helmet.
• Park with confidence with a good bike lock.