2026-04-13 – News – www.theguardian.com
Basic maintenance is one of the most satisfying ways of getting to know your bike – with most basic parts costing less than a tank of fuel
With fuel prices soaring and service stations running dry, you might find yourself taking a second look at that old bike gathering dust in the back of the garage. Cycling may not be a suitable replacement for all car trips but, with more than half of Australian motorists cutting down on driving due to the crisis, it’s a very handy (and very fun) tool to have in your arsenal for a quick trip to the shops, a leisurely weekend joyride or the first or last leg of your commute.
Even if you don’t already own a bike, cycling can be among the cheapest modes of transport around. While many a Lycra-clad speed demon will try to convince you that the only bike worth riding is one that costs more than some new cars, older bikes are not only easier to repair, they’re also less tempting to thieves. If you scroll through Facebook Marketplace you’ll find…
