Bicycle maintenance tips
Regardless of how much we paid for our bike, it needs to be regularly and properly maintained for its optimal performance. Bicycles that are not maintained quickly lose their value, the functionality and performance of the bicycle deteriorate.
So how can we maintain the bike so that this does not happen, or that it does not happen too quickly? Below we have written some tips that are suitable for all bike owners, regardless of their experience.
Try to keep it indoors. Bicycles that are stored outside are heavily exposed to the sun, rain, moisture and dirt. This causes individual parts of the bike to wear out faster, which means higher repair costs for us.
If you use the bike for riding in the rain and on hilly terrain without asphalt (mountain biking), it needs to be serviced more regularly and intensively, as the bike is exposed to greater pressure.
Do not use WD40 on your chain. WD40 is made for lubricating doors and other things that move occasionally. Since the chain is constantly in motion, using WD40 will dry out the oil and cause the two metals to rub against each other. Use chain lube instead of WD40.
If you have had an accident with your bike or if you have bought a used one, we recommend that you take it in for a thorough inspection and service to make sure that everything is working properly and safely. Regular inspections at most repair shops are not expensive, so this cost is definitely worth it.
Bicycle maintenance can be divided into different categories according to the frequency of the various tasks that need to be performed.
Before each ride, the following must be checked on the bicycle: Check that you have the appropriate tires presure. This ensures a comfortable ride and good grip, and prevents premature tire wear. The recommended tire pressure is written on the sidewall of each tire. Before every ride, make sure you have a tube repair tool or a spare tube and a pump with you.
Check the operation of the rear and front brakes by testing both while driving slowly. This prevents possible accidents and injuries
You check the chain and all gears. As we mentioned above, it is necessary to ensure that the chain is well lubricated and clean.
Rotate the front and rear wheels to make sure they rotate correctly and are securely fastened.
If you have suspension on your bike, always press it down before riding and check that it responds correctly.
The following tasks are required every month or every 500 kilometers. Apart from cleaning, we recommend that other tasks be carried out by an experienced service technician from an official repair shop.
Wipe the wheel with a dry cloth and inspect individual parts for cracks or dents.
Clean and degrease the chain and sprockets. Relubricate the chain with the appropriate lubricant
Check the spokes on the wheels and make sure that none of them have fallen out of the socket. If the spokes have fallen out of their sockets, the wheel may need to be re-centered. The spokes must be tightly tightened and the wheel must be completely flat during rotation.
With a suitable wrench, test the strength of connecting and moving parts: pedals, seat bolts, seat post bolts, handlebars, and others.
Lubricate the brake and gear cables to prevent them from sticking. Check that the cables are not rusting or rubbing against each other. If necessary, replace them.
Check the pedals and the strength of the threads and screws in them.
Check the pedals and the strength of the threads and screws in them.
Every six months, or every 2,500 kilometers:
Clean the frame with bike cleaner and wipe it with a dry cloth. Once the frame is clean, inspect it for any cracks or dents.
Check tire wear. If there is any damage on the tires or if the tires are excessively worn, replace them.
Check the condition of all components on the bike (handlebars, handlebars, handlebars, brakes, gears, seat, seat post, seat clamp, cranks, pedals, front wheel, front hub, rear wheel, rear hub, spokes). Repair any defects or replace the component with a new one if repair is not possible.
Check all cables on the bike for rust or damage. Also, see if they don't stick together. If replacement is required, replace them.
Check the brakes and make sure the brake linings are not too worn. If necessary, also change the brake wire or brake oil. Bleed the hydraulic brakes if necessary.