You are here:
Bicycling/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can help you with bicycle fitting problems (proper fit, numb hands, etc.), Buying help (Which type of bike, brand, so forth), basic repair problems (Flat tires, poor shifting, noises, etc.), technique questions (How to climb better, how to ride in traffic...), and even basic training questions (first race, long tour, or just a weight loss program). Some repairs are better left to the experts, we used to call this category "home repair gone bad." However, many fixes are simple and can be done by most. I will simply tell you if you should try it or take it to a shop. I will even help you ask the right questions when you walk into a shop so you can feel more confident. If I don't know an answer I can find out and get back to you.
Experience in the area
I have worked in bicycle shops or the bicycle industry since 1984. I started racing around that time but rode bicycles and did some touring before that. I have managed large shops in the upper Midwest, been invited to join a professional team as mechanic, which I turned down so I could open my own shop. I have built wheels for two US National Champions. I have also been a consultant to retailers and manager of a bicycle fitting system company here in the US. My greatest joy is helping people get into riding and be more confident about their riding and bicycle.
Publications
Various regional enthusiast publications.
Education/Credentials
Doesn't really apply but I do have a BA in English/History (Both very marketable - that is why I stayed in bicycles!) And had been working on my Master in Education before I thought better of that.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bud | 05/24/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Great! |
| Gabe | 05/09/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you very much for a detailed ..... |
| JIm Thompson | 04/02/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | I have asked Tad several questions on ..... |
| Hashem | 03/11/12 | 10 | 9 | 10 | "It sounds like you might be a ..... |
| john | 03/11/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | this guy is a pro and has ..... |
Recent Answers from Tad Hylkema
2012-05-07 the right size tires:
Gabriel, I am sorry it took so long to answer... I read your message, couldn't answer right away, and then never got back to it. Sorry. First of all not all tires measure the same; one brand's 2
2012-04-01 removing brifters:
Jim, Sorry it took a bit to get back to you, I read your message right before a ride and then when I got back I was done in. I think I understand what you want to do in that you want to install a
2012-03-14 new chain, old chainring:
Jim, That is so cool, you getting on the track again! When I was living and racing in Minneapolis many years ago (Same year Lemond won the Tour and the World Championship) they built a track in a northern
2012-03-10 choice of bikes:
Hi John, I really can't, or I should say, won't recommend a brand. I have my loyalties but what I like is not what will fit another person. And that is what it comes down to... fit. About ten years
2012-02-24 more campy and cassettes:
Hey Jim, Let me take the easy one first... On the outside of the last cog on the cassette is a lock ring, it takes a special tool not unlike the freewheel tools of old, except it is much more shallow
Answers by Expert:
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.