School is back in session! And even if you're not sitting in a classroom raising your hand to answer questions, there are still opportunities to learn a few new things as you train for the final tri's of the season.

In this edition for instance, you'll get a 101 on helmets and bike tune-ups. At the Austin Tri Expo on Sunday, you can pick up some tips at the free clinics or at the pro triathlete panel discussion. And if that doesn't quench your thirst for tri knowledge, you can always come by the shop with your questions. Don't worry - we won't quiz you afterward!

At Jack & Adam's Bicycles, we love triathlon, bikes and music! The shop will be closed Friday, October 2nd to Sunday, October 4 for Austin City Limits Festival. We will re-open on Monday, October 5 at 10AM. We apologize for the inconvenience. Maybe we'll see you out on the green field at Zilker Park that weekend!

Some of the staff will also attend Interbike in Las Vegas from Sept. 21-25. We'll bring back tons of info on new products from bikes to nutrition and everything in between. While this, the largest industry trade show in the world, is a great learning opportunity, some of what happens in Vegas, as they say, stays in Vegas!

Even if you're not participating in the Austin Tri this Labor Day weekend, you can still take part at the FREE expo on Sunday!

From flat tire and transition clinics, to product sampling and sales, this expo will be a great opportunity to mingle with fellow triathletes prior to the main event the following day!

When does my bicycle need a tune-up?

That is a common question. The answer is not easy. Every bicycle is in a state of getting out of tune due to riding, transporting, and/or storing it. All these things wear on your bike in a way that will make the ride less than perfect.

There are a handful of cyclists with mechanical skills that allow them to work on their bikes before and after every ride. But for most cyclists, that is not the case and tune-ups are only scheduled on average once a year. Other cyclists will wait until the bike needs work beyond the standard tune-up which can lead to more costly repairs involving component replacement.

The best way to answer this question is to start by saying that anyone who truly cares about having a smooth running bicycle should learn some basics about bicycle maintenance such as derailleur adjustments and wheel truing.

In general, if someone is OK at derailleur adjustments and wheel truing, then they can get one professional tune-up per year, which might include a new chain, tires, and handlebar tape. If you service your bike frequently, you will increase the expectancy of your components and you will be happier with one bike for a longer amount of time.

There are several factors that may cause your bike to need extra attention each year. The first is numerous race wheel swap outs. The second is transporting the bike on a regular basis. The third is racing your bike. Please know that it is OK to swap wheels, to travel, and to race, but also know that there are some issues associated with each.

If you want a very smooth ride but do not want to work on the bike yourself, then you should schedule tune-ups more often; as many as three times per year if you are a high mileage cyclist.

If you take care of your bike, it will take care of you. If you don't, then we will.