“MacGyvering” Bar Tape Into a Set Of Custom Grips?
This post explores the advantages and disadvantages of using bar tape instead of grips: The Advantages of Bar Tape 1. Customization If you use bar tape for your grips, you…
Converting French Threaded Cranks To British Pedal Threads (With Cheap DIY Tools)
Disclaimer: The following article shows how to modify a set of cranks. Follow the instructions at your own risk. BrainyBiker.com is not responsible for any property damage or accidents that…
What It Takes To Combine a 12-Speed Chain and an 11-Speed Cassette…
A 12-speed chain can work with an 11-speed cassette. However, it's recommended to avoid using a Shimano 12-speed chain because it doesn't play well with 11-speed chainrings. Chain Width The…
The Compatibility Of 10-speed Derailleurs And 11-speed Cassettes (an analysis by a brainy biker)
10-speed rear derailleurs do not work accurately with 11-speed cassettes when coupled with index shifters. The only exceptions are SRAM's 10-speed exact actuation road derailleurs which have the same rear…
Can You Put an 11-speed Cassette on an 8-speed Hub?
Condensed answer: An 8-speed MTB hub is wide enough to accept an 11-speed MTB cassette. An 8-speed Road hub, however, is too narrow for an 11-speed Road cassette. If you…
Compatibility Lesson: MTB Hubs and Road Bikes
Rear MTB hubs are wider than rear Road hubs designed for bikes with rim brakes. Thus, rear road wheels built around MTB hubs won't fit on a modern rim brake…
My Detailed Comparison of Panniers and Trunk Bags
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of bicycle panniers and trunk bags in relation to one another. The Advantages of Panniers 1. Enormous capacity The main advantage of panniers…
Let’s Compare Bike Panniers and Baskets
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of panniers and baskets (front and rear) in relation to one another. The Advantages of Panniers 1. Huge Capacity Panniers offer an enormous…
Frame Bag vs. Backpack
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of bicycle frame bags and backpacks in relation to one another. The Advantages of Frame Bags 1. The Luggage Is On The Bike…
Saddlebag vs. Tool Bottle
This post compares the advantages and disadvantages of bicycle saddlebags and tool bottles in relation to one another. Note: This comparison is focused on small saddlebags designed for carrying repair…