Question about bike repair?

My bike sometimes feels like I am pedaling through quicksand. I know how to operate the gears and use the appropriate gear, but sometimes it has this feeling that its dragging. What are the possible things that could cause this?

How do I check the bearings? Does anoyne have a website with pictures?

Without actually seeing the bike in action it's difficult to say.

You will have to go through a process of elimination!

eg. Do the wheels rotate freely?; Does the bearings in the bottom bracket feel stiff?; Do the brakes rub?; Are the tyres properly inflated?; etc.

Most of this can be done by turning your bike upside down.

Give it a go, it'll save you quids instead of going to the LBS!

Take heart in the fact, that I feel the same way after a long bike ride.

Best of luck!


.

Your bearings could be getting bad. In fact, I had that problem a long time ago and that's what it was. It could also be a checknut on the crank is loose and allowing the bearing retainer to cinch down on the bearings.
You don't tell your age or skill level so I don't know if I can even explain how to check them.

Basically, bikes are machines and machines need lubrication and maintenance. If you aren't lubricating the bearings regularly, they WILL fail.

It's inexpensive to get the bike checked at the local bike shop. Sometimes they will even check it for free.

I think your question has been covered:
tires low
brakes rubbing
wheel bearing need attention

Likelyhood in that order.

(So why am I repeating the answers? just to confirm these great answers!)

Maybe you are riding in quicksand.

One thing that I've seen is that sometimes string gets wound around the cluster of gears in the back that is really hard to see but if you get a flat head screwdriver and stick it in behind the biggest gear in the back it will come out...Just another suggestion.
The other suggestions are very good.