FAQs
How often should I service my bike?
This really depends on how often and distance you ride. Aside from pumping tires, someone who rides everyday and minimum 30k should service their bike every 3 months or so. Someone who rides a couple times a week under 20k should service their bike every 8 months. Someone who rides even less than all that, every 12 months.
My bike isn’t stopping. What should I do?
Chances are the brake pads need replacing. If you are unsure/ not confident with doing this we highly recommend seeing a bike mechanic. Bikes with faulty/ no brakes are very dangerous to ride.
My bike is making squeaking noises when I brake. What should I do?
The rims/ rotors or your brake pads could be contaminated. Come by the shop and staff are happy to discuss in further detail.
My bike isn’t changing gears. What should I do?
This problem could be due to many different reasons, we recommend seeing a bike mechanic who can help diagnose/ fix the problem.
My bike is making squeaking noises when I pedal. What should I do?
Your chain is probably too dry, applying chain lubricant will help fix the problem. Come by the shop and staff are happy to discuss in further detail.
My bike tires are flat. What should I do?
Chances are your bike has a flat and the inner tube needs replacing. Come by the shop anytime no booking required and we can assist you. Also note bike tires will go flat over a period of a month or so. It just needs to be pumped up again! Also Also note riding on flat tires can damage inner tubes, tires and the rims of your bike.
I’m getting lots of punctures. What should I do?
We recommend considering replacing your tires. The ones on your bike could be worn and need replacing. Tire options are available that have better puncture resistance.
I want to carry more stuff on my bike. What should I do?
Consider investing in baskets or pannier bags that can fit on your bike. A rear basket sits on top of a rack that can be mounted to most kinds of bikes. A pannier bag also fits onto the side of a rear rack but can be taken on and off to take with you. Come by the shop and staff are happy to discuss in further detail.
I want to learn how to fix my bike. What should I do?
Check out the PARSA Cycles events page. We periodically run workshops on basic bicycle maintenance. Also check out the re-cyclery, On ANU campus this is a bike co-op helping students and Canberrans alike. https://www.canberraenvironment.org/the-recyclery
Is it safe to leave my bike outside at ANU/ Canberra city?
Unfortunately bike theft is common on ANU campus (even more so at night!!). Some solutions are to use a bike lock, use bike cages offered by ANU halls and schools. Come by the shop and staff are happy to discuss in further detail.
I love riding bikes and want to meet people who also ride.
The ANU cycling club is the first place to start! Check out their facebook page or alternatively come in store. PARSA cycles has a long relationship with the club, staff can assist with where to start and who to contact. Another option is to check out our events page for biking related social events!
What kind of bike is best for me?
This really depends on the type/ where you want to cycle. For just around town: cruiser, commuter and entry level mountain bikes are a good option. Making sure that the frame size is right is also important to consider.