Bike Tips - Looking after wheels and axels

Some wheels are crap, some wheels are ace. If you have the latter, you shouldn't have too much of a problem, but I always have problems with wheels + axles particularly 10mm axles. Wheels: Every so often, my spokes think its funny to get loose which results in a very horrible clunking sound. It sounds like something is rattling around in the hub, but its not. Simple use a spoke key to tighten any loose spokes first, then true the wheel. Other problems only require a bit of obviouse thinking to repair.... failing that, replace it. Axles: If there's one pain in the arse I got its axles. 10mm axles always bend so obviously 14mm+ are preferred. When replacing axles, its always a good idea to "measure" the distance that the cone + lock nut of one side is; which makes it easier to get the axle central. Then grease up the cone nut, one side of the hub, + the bearings. If you use a lot of grease, then your bike will become very "slow" (cos there is so much grease), BUT it will only require attention again in probably 10 years. Once one side is in, grease up the other hub side, bearings and cone nut and screw the cone nut on. Don't do it too tight yet but get it sort of close. Then screw the lock nut on again not tight. Now wipe your hands! You need to get the cone nut tight enough so that the wheel doesn't wobble, but loose enough so that it runs freeely. Some people spend an hour doing this, so don't worry if it takes you a while too.