I'm a senior now and have been wrenching since I was 16. I could give it a try. Is it an adjustment or just use a little persuasion in the right spot?
ya you should be able too. but if you have to do it much it may snap off ].
Doesn't look too much, I figured as much but thought to ask here before getting in trouble. Thanks
I've straightened a couple derailleur hangers using a large adjustable wrench to disperse the force and gently straightened. Like any aluminum part it would be susceptible to breaking if manipulated too much/too many times. I'd buy a new hanger before wasting my time with a bike shop. I'm always a bit surprised by the lack of confidence and mechanical ability many of the people who post on this site express. Bikes are simple machines and virtually every mechanical part can be relatively easily be repaired or replaced (by an average 12 year old).
I agree with your main point about the hanger, sort of. I just think bikes are actually pretty complex machines. Lots of parts, many of which have parts, especially the drive chain. But that’s not the real problem for me and I suspect many others. Not all of us have the special tools required for many jobs and the tools can cost as much as a shop might charge or more importantly may only be needed once. Add in the costs of having and setting up a place to store said tools, supplies and for performing the work and it can be better to have the LBS do it.
Did you have to add "by a 12 year old".
12 year old's can cook, play musical instruments, and work on their bikes. But at what level?
mbaction.com
Only because it's true. SMH when people post complaints about bike shop service when any reasonably able person, including a 12yo, could have done the service themselves and in less time. The few specialized tools required for bike maintenance and repair are inexpensive and widely available. Including a bike stand I doubt that I have over $100 in bike specific tools. Do the job once yourself and the tools are free. There are good, detailed youtube videos on virtually anything.
comparing bike maintenance and repair with highly skilled musicians, chefs or whatever isn't valid and you don't have to be a master chef to make an excellent meal12 year old's can cook, play musical instruments, and work on their bikes. But at what level?
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Inside the Toolbox of Steven “Gravy” Gravenites, the Legendary Mechanic - Mountain Bike Action Magazine
Behind ever great rider is a great mechanic
Well, it only looks complex if you are unfamiliar with it. Dig in and you'll find its all pretty simple. That doesn't mean people who are not inclined to learn this are in some way bad, but for those of us who have spent the time to Just Do It, its not in any way difficult.
I was just drawing contrast about levels. And, I agree it is a matter of just doing it and comfort. I have a friend I am house sitting for right now, who just does not have the interest, aptitude, or band width to work on his bikes. For him it would be like me learning Greek. He would ask, Why, and would just rather farm it out then buy tools and learn. For him changing a light switch would be overwhelming and it would catch fire. He cannot swap a tube and has no interest.
