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Stuff Every Bike Scout Should Know: the Study Guide

Practice facts for the Cycling merit badge. Not an official Scouting America credential. Grab a snack: this guide is the friendly version, with the answers explained and a groan-worthy joke waiting at the end of most cards.

Knowing Bike Scout saves you money, time and the occasional embarrassment.

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Chapter 1: Running

What should you do before buying a bike?

Short answer: Be measured and take a test ride

Being measured for a bike and taking a test ride are recommended before buying.

Groan of the day: Test ride before you decide; no wheely big surprises.

Sources: Cycling

What are gravel bikes designed to handle?

Short answer: Gravel roads or trails and pavement

Gravel bikes work on gravel roads or trails and still ride well on pavement.

Groan of the day: Gravel bikes are versatile, not gravely serious.

Sources: Cycling

What should you carry for basic bike repairs?

Short answer: Pump, puncture kit, spare tube, tire levers

Carry a pump, puncture repair kit, spare inner tube, tire levers, and allen keys.

Groan of the day: Pack a repair kit and avoid a wheely bad day.

Sources: Cycling

How does regular cycling affect health risks?

Short answer: Reduces risk of cancers, heart disease, and diabetes

Regular cycling reduces the risk of cancers, heart disease, and diabetes from sedentary lifestyles.

Groan of the day: Pedal your way to a healthier heart.

Sources: Cycling

What is a sign of overuse injury?

Short answer: Joint pain and numbness

Joint pain and numbness are early signs of overuse injury, so pay attention.

Groan of the day: Don't ignore a grumpy joint; rest it.

Sources: Cycling

The cheat sheet

The whole guide on one screen. Screenshot it, print it, stick it on the fridge.

  • Underinflated tires can be cut or damaged, so check pressure before riding.
  • Use a bike-specific lubricant and wipe away excess so grit does not collect.
  • Tires with cracks or cuts are suspect and should be replaced for safety.
  • If less than 1/8 inch of rubber remains outside the base, replace the pads.
  • Frayed or doubtful brake cables should be checked by an expert before riding.
  • Road bikes are lightweight with skinny tires and many gears for speed on pavement.
  • Mountain bikes have wider knobby tires and gears for rugged terrain.
  • BMX stands for bicycle motocross, though people rarely say the full name now.
  • Grit that gets into bearings affects how long the bike lasts if not cleaned.
  • Good used bikes are easy to find at local bike shops and buy-and-sell websites.
  • Drifting away from the shoulder can discourage a car from passing in a blind curve.
  • Mountain biking requires balance, dexterity, and focus to handle rough terrain.

Pop quiz

Think of your answer first, then peek.

  1. What should you do before every ride to check your tires?
    • Inflate them to the correct pressure
    • Let out some air
    • Ignore them
    Show the answer

    Inflate them to the correct pressure. Underinflated tires can be cut or damaged, so check pressure before riding.

  2. What is one way a rider can manage cars in a blind curve?
    • Close eyes
    • Drift away from the shoulder
    • Ride faster
    Show the answer

    Drift away from the shoulder. Drifting away from the shoulder can discourage a car from passing in a blind curve.

  3. What is one benefit of cycling compared with driving?
    • More pollution
    • More traffic
    • Easier parking
    Show the answer

    Easier parking. Cycling offers easier parking, maneuverability, and less pollution than motor vehicles.

  4. What should you do at a right-turn-only lane if going straight?
    • Demonstrate appropriate actions for continuing straight
    • Always turn right
    • Stop forever
    Show the answer

    Demonstrate appropriate actions for continuing straight. Riders should know the proper action at a right-turn-only lane when continuing straight.

  5. What kind of bike is designed for rugged, undulating terrain?
    • BMX bike
    • Mountain bike
    • Road bike
    Show the answer

    Mountain bike. Mountain bikes are designed for more rugged, undulating terrain than road bikes.

Now make it stick

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