Less time in the car, more time on the bike. Sound like a familiar goal?
Even when it comes to maintenance, many of us cyclists lean the same way, and the closest we come to a car mechanic is dropping off our car for an oil change, or listening to Click and Clack on public radio. We might do all our own maintenance on our bikes, but when it comes to cars, if we own or lease one, most of us will leave the wrenching on our four-wheel computerized vehicles to the experts with proper diagnostics, the right tools, parts and labor warranties and liability insurance.
That's just as well—many projects other than changing an air filter or wiper blades can be more complex than on a bicycle—and peace of mind and your time can't be discounted. Yet for any home bicycle mechanic, your local auto parts store is still worth a visit, and today for our latest, Mechanical Monday installment, we've got a few favorite reasons why.
An auto parts store is the last thing most of us think of when it comes to our two-wheel needs, but there are many reasons to venture inside. photo: I-5 Design and Manufacture on flickr
Make no mistake about it, an auto parts store can't replace your local bicycle shop in its life-saving ability when you break a part the day before a race, and local bike shops need your support to be there when you need them the most. However, most bike shops aren't stocked with all the items a home mechanic might need for a complicated project or pro setup. And while hardware stores carry some of these items, the selection is actually often more limited.
Sometimes it's even a matter of convenience, as there's more likely to be an auto parts store close by than a Home Depot, and there are more O'Reily, Napa or Advance Auto Parts locations than True Value or Ace Hardware franchises. And these stores tend to be open for extended hours, long after a bike shop has closed.
So roll up those sleeves, your roll-top backpack and your two wheels up to your local neighborhood auto parts store with some off our staff's shopping suggestions below. You'll be sure to get some staff attention in one way or another as the only grease monkey in lycra.
7 Reasons for Cyclists to Visit the Auto Parts Store:
Prettying Up
Got a bad scratch on your cyclocross bike’s paint job? Or need to get your shine on? A car guy or gal can surely relate. Whether it’s a perfectly-matched touch-up paint, a metal protectant for your stainless steel gravel bike or mirrored titanium frame, or a way to add some sparkle to your old alloy rims before your L’ Eroica parade, an auto store is likely to have what you need.
Got a bad scratch on your pro paint job? Repainting an old frame? Your local auto parts store is likely to have an impressive selection of touch-up and spray paint. © Cyclocross Magazine
There’s little benefit to spending all that time prettying your ride up if nobody can see you. So when the sun dips or storm clouds open up, make sure you’re seen while on your recently touched-up frame and two wheels. Auto parts stores are filled with options like reflective tape to make trailers and accessories seen at night, and such products are equally handy at making sure you’re not riding in stealth mode.
While you’re at it, you can add some safety to your commute, night ride or commuter bike with a stop at your local auto parts store. © Cyclocross Magazine
Put some reflective tape on your helmet, wheels and frame to make sure you return from any commutes or adventures at dusk or at night and live to fight another day.
