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Bringing Back a Classic: My 1973 VW Super Beetle Adventure”

In 1998, I had the opportunity to take my 1973 VW Super Beetle to a car show in St. Louis. This was a dream come true for me, as I had always been a fan of vintage vehicles and the VW Beetle was no exception. I had purchased my Super Beetle a few years prior and had been working tirelessly to restore it to its former glory.

On Sunday January 29th, 2023, the St Louis Knights (2013 squirts) played the Chicago Blues at Maryville University Ice Center. The Knights came out on top with a 4-3 victory.

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Bike Maintenance Instructions:

1. Cleaning:
   • Regular cleaning is an essential part of bike maintenance. Before performing any maintenance, you should start by cleaning the bike frame, chain, gears, and other parts.
   • To clean the bike, you’ll need a degreaser and a soft cloth. Apply the degreaser to the areas that need cleaning, such as the chain, gears, and frame, and scrub gently with the cloth.
   • This will help remove grime and dirt that can build up over time. Once you’ve finished cleaning, rinse the bike with water to remove any leftover degreaser.
2. Lubrication:
   • After cleaning, you should lubricate the chain and gears.
   • A good lubricant will help protect the metal parts from rust and corrosion, and it will also make the bike run more smoothly.
   • Apply a few drops of lubricant to the chain, and then use a clean cloth to spread it evenly. Be sure to lubricate the gears as well, especially those that are exposed to the elements.
3. Tires:
   • Check the tires for proper pressure and inspect them for damage or wear.
   • If you’re using a road bike, you should aim for a pressure of around 100-130 psi, while mountain bikes typically require a lower pressure of around 30-50 psi.
   • If the pressure is too low, use a pump to fill the tires to the correct level.
   • Check the tires for cuts, punctures, or other signs of damage, and replace the tire if necessary.
4. Brakes:
   • Check the brake pads for wear and adjust if needed.
   • If the brake pads are worn down to the metal, they will need to be replaced.
   • Check the brake cables as well, and make sure they are tightened properly.
   • If the brakes are not functioning properly, you may need to take the bike to a professional mechanic for a more in-depth inspection.
5. Drivetrain:
   • Check the tightness of the bolts on the crank arm, pedals, and bottom bracket, and tighten any that are loose.
   • Check the gears to make sure they are shifting smoothly.
   • If the gears are not shifting properly, you may need to adjust the derailleur.
6. Steering:
   • Check the tightness of the stem bolts, headset, and handlebar, and tighten any that are loose.
   • Make sure the handlebars are positioned correctly, and that the bike is easy to steer.
   • If the steering feels loose or wobbly, you may need to take the bike to a professional mechanic for further inspection.
7. Suspension:
   • If your bike has suspension, it’s important to check it regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly.
   • Check for proper suspension function and adjust accordingly.
   • If the suspension feels stiff or bouncy, you may need to make some adjustments.
8. Wheel true:
   • Ensure that the wheels spin straight and true.
   • If the wheels are not true, you may need to make some adjustments to keep the bike riding smoothly.
9. Chain wear:
   • Over time, the chain will start to wear down and stretch.
   • To check for chain wear, use a chain wear indicator tool.
   • If the chain is worn, it will need to be replaced to avoid damage to the gears.
   • A worn chain will cause shifting problems, so it’s important to replace it promptly.
10. Final Inspection:
    • After performing all the above checks and maintenance, give the bike a final inspection.
    • Test ride the bike to ensure it is running smoothly and everything is functioning properly.
    • Check the brakes, gears, and steering, and make any necessary adjustments.
    • If anything seems out of place, take the bike back to a professional mechanic for further inspection.

Note: Regular maintenance is important to keep your bike running smoothly and to extend its lifespan. If you are unsure about performing any of these maintenance tasks, take the bike to a professional mechanic for assistance.

Autocross is an exciting and challenging motorsport that is quickly gaining popularity among car enthusiasts. It is a competitive event where drivers navigate a course that is laid out on a large parking lot or closed-off airfield. The objective is to complete the course in the fastest time possible, while navigating tight turns, hairpin bends, and other obstacles.

One of the best things about autocross is that it is accessible to a wide range of drivers. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, there is a class for you. This means that you can compete against drivers of similar skill levels, which makes for a fair and enjoyable competition.

Solo Performance Specialties is your one stop shop for all your autocross needs. They have a huge selection of tires, wheels, and suspension parts. They are located in St. Louis, MO, but they ship all over the country. They are a great resource for all your autocross needs.