Coaster Hub Overhaul (Pedal Brake Hub)
While biking with the boys in Golden Gate Park this morning, Oski’s rear wheel became locked up. He couldn’t pedal forward, or at least not consistently. I wasn’t sure what was wrong - uh, maybe the cranks? - but figured it probably had something to do with the coaster brake. Unfortunately, I didn’t bring any tools along (lame)… so ended up having to carry his bike all the way home since it wouldn’t roll.
After we dropped off the other bikes, we drove over to Valencia Cyclery where I’d purchased the bike earlier this year. It was way past their 90-day free adjustment scheme, but the mechanic said that yeah, it was the coaster brake assembly, and he’d fix it for free, no problem. Very cool. We headed across the street to hang out at Ritual Coffee Roasters where Ryan and Drew treated me and the boys like total rock stars. Thanks guys, for the coffee love!
Once we returned to the bike shop, we learned that the mechanic had re-built the wheel twice - but it was still fucked, so he ended up replacing the wheel with a new one. I gave ‘em $20 for beer money and thanked them for the effort.
What a day so far. Glad to be home again. Oh, and check this out… Park Tool has some repair how-to’s online. You know, for next time.