The etiquette of an unsolicited bike fix

[Phatboing]

In the bike parking area at work the other day, I found that someone had ridden in on a Walmart bike that had the fork on backwards. Ugh. I’ve wanted to leave a note, but am usually without writing implements when I get down there. I then considered the idea of fixing the thing unsolicited – it has a quill stem, so all I need to do is loosen the bolt, flip, tighten. Is there a Miss Manners guideline for these things? I’m going to write a note today and keep it in my bag, in case s/he shows up again, but should I just fix the damn thing when I see it next?

Topic

[creadinger]

@hozn 95124 wrote:

I wouldn’t do it [unsolicited]. Seems like that would be a fairly significant geometry/handling change that could, worst-case, have more catastrophic consequences for someone used to riding it wrong.

I do feel like I should start telling people when their helmets are on backwards, though. That probably could have serious safety implications too. But they look so happy.

You mean the visor isn’t to protect my neck?

Also, please fix the rear brakes on my Surly if you’re so inclined. One of the pads fell off recently. What the hell?

[cyclingfool]

@creadinger 95679 wrote:

You mean the visor isn’t to protect my neck?

Unless you’re riding backwards somehow and the red blinkie light on your handlebars* is supposed to let me see you from “behind” as I approach, then no…

*I’ve seen this more than a few times in the last couple months. Red lights go on the BACK of your bike, folks…

[mstone]

@cyclingfool 95685 wrote:

*I’ve seen this more than a few times in the last couple months. Red lights go on the BACK of your bike, folks…

especially in a contributory negligence regime…

[Author]

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