Daniel T'seleie
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 30/04) - Celebrate the Earth: get out of your car and onto a bike.

"It's better for the environment and better for yourself," said Ecology North's Christa Domchek.

In celebration of Earth Week, Ecology North and Overlander Sports held a demonstration session on bike tune-up basics, just in case your two-wheeler has been idle too long.

About 15 riders showed up to learn a thing or two from Overlander's Gary Tait and Travis Glavich.

The basics, from brakes to gears, were covered. The most important tip though, was to clean and oil your chain once every two weeks for a smoother and easier ride.

From an environmental perspective, the evening was informative beyond mere mechanics.

Bike inner tubes, made of rubber, are biodegradable and can be thrown on your compost heap instead of in the garbage.

Also covered was the issue of cleaning products and the environment. Todays de-greasers are non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

All this maintenance can add up, unless you do it yourself. You could spend anywhere from $5 to $500 on bike tools and parts.

As well as Overlander Sports, bike tuneups are available at K&W Cycle.