I have been on a bike maintenance course, and while it was OK, I soon forgot a lot of what I'd learnt. Personally, (this might sound a bit radical, but bear with me!) if you really want to get handy with your tools you could buy a very simple little bike like a little farmers dirt bike so close to the breakers that it'll cost peanuts. Then take it apart and fix it up with the help of a good manual. Despite it being a different bike from the one you are taking on your trip it will teach you loads about the general principles of mechanics, diagnosing a problem (the most important skill!), how a bike works etc. Equipping you to fix your own bike far more effectively than any course. And because it isn't your 'trip' bike you don't have to worry too much about knackering it taking it apart!
The bonus is that at the end of all this you'll have a fun wee bike for tooling around on!
While I bought an XT for my 'big trip' of a few years ago. I've learnt so much more about mechanics from my Enfield. Partly cos it breaks down more, but partly because it's so simple to maintain I do not feel daunted out of fixing it myself.
This approach isn't for everyone perhaps, but I'd give it serious consideration!
Matt
__________________
http://adventure-writing.blogspot.com
http://scotlandnepal.blogspot.com/
*Disclaimer* - I am not saying my bike is better than your bike. I am not saying my way is better than your way. I am not mocking your religion/politics/other belief system. When reading my post imagine me sitting behind a frothing pint of ale, smiling and offering you a bag of peanuts. This is the sentiment in which my post is made. Please accept it as such!
Last edited by Matt Cartney; 13 May 2008 at 12:01.
|