If you ride a bike, you no doubt take great pride in it. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a road bike, a gravel bike, or a mountain bike, it’s important to keep it in the best possible condition. A well-maintained bike not only rides better but also lasts longer and is better at keeping you safe on the roads or the trails.
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The utmost care must be taken, from regular cleaning through to proper storage and maintenance. To ensure the maximum performance and longevity of your prized possession, here are eight essential tips to keep your bike rolling smoothly for years to come.
Keep it clean
Dirt and mud don’t just look bad, they can actually wear down your bike’s components and lead to serious damage. Cleaning your bike regularly removes abrasive debris that can accelerate wear and tear on moving parts like chains, derailleurs and brakes.
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The frequency of cleaning will depend on how you use your bike. If you ride regularly, aim for a quick rinse after each ride and a deeper one each week. If you take your bike off-road on muddy trails, it will need a more thorough clean post-ride.
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To clean your bicycle, start by rinsing off loose first with a gentle stream of water. Use a hosepipe or a dedicated bike washer for this task. Avoid high-pressure washers as these damage your bike. Use a mild soap or bike-specific cleaner and a soft brush to gently scrub the bike, paying special attention to the chain and gears where grime can easily build up.
Lubricate moving parts
After cleaning, your bike’s chain and drivetrain need proper lubrication. This reduces friction, prevents rust, and enables gears to shift more smoothly. Make sure you choose the right lube for your bike and its usage. Wet lube is best for muddy and damp conditions while dry lube is ideal for dusty, dry trails
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You only need to apply a small amount to each link of your chain while slowly turning the pedals. Give it a few minutes to penetrate the mechanisms and wipe off any excess with a clean rag.
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A properly lubricated drivetrain can dramatically improve your bike’s performance and extend the life of expensive components.
Check tire pressure often
Low tire pressure makes pedaling harder and increases the risk of punctures. On the other hand, an over-inflated tire can lead to a bumpy ride, especially when mountain biking.
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Find the correct pressure by checking the sidewall of your tire for the recommended PSI. Road bikes tend to need higher pressure than mountain bikes. Make sure you have a good quality bike pump with a pressure gauge and check the pressure before every ride if possible, but especially if you haven’t ridden for some time.
Inspect brakes frequently
Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your bike. If they don’t work correctly, you could seriously injure yourself or others, so they need regular attention.
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The warning signs of wear will depend on the type of brakes you have. For rim brackets, check for worn or thin brake pads or a shiny rim. If you have disc brakes you should look out for warping or frayed cables. Test your brakes with a short ride on flat ground. If the braking feels weak or uneven, you may need to tighten the cables, realign calipers or bleed the hydraulics. This can be done at home if you know what you’re doing but take your bike for a professional brake servicing if you’re unsure.
Store your bike properly
It’s important to store.your bike properly when not in use. This protects it from the elements and keeps components in good condition when you’re not riding. If your bike is left outdoors it can accumulate rust and undergo mechanical wear, as well as being at risk of theft. You need to keep it safe and dry.
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Store your bike in a secure garage or shed. If you don’t have one, a spare room or hallway will do. Don’t leave your bike leaning up against a wall as this can damage the frame or wall. Consider using garage bike racks instead, which protect the bike and create more space in your home
Check connections
Frequent riding, even under normal road conditions, creates vibrations that can loosen bolts and connections over time. It’s good practice to check these from time to time to make sure nothing is rattling about. Check the stem, handlebars, seatpost clamp, crank set, brake and derailleur mounts, and wheel axles for any loose parts. Use a torque wrench to tighten if needed.
Tune your gears regularly
You want to be able to shift gears smoothly when riding. If you notice any slipping, delay, or noises when changing, your derailleur most likely needs adjusting. Cycle through the gears when going out for a ride and look out for any abnormalities. Generally, you should be able to sort things out by turning the barrel adjusters to get the right cable tension. If the issue persists, you may need to check your derailleur is straight and that the cables are clean and lubricated.
Get a professional service
No matter how capable you may be when it comes to bike maintenance, there is no substitute for a professional tune-up. A good bike shop service will adjust brakes and gears, align the wheels, inspect bearings, replace worn parts,.and spot hidden issues that you might miss in your own garage.
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Aim for a full professional tune-up at least once a year, or more often if you ride frequently or in tough conditions.
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In summary, keeping your bike in good condition doesn’t have to be complicated. With adequate cleaning, maintenance, storage, and servicing, your bike will be safe and effective all year round. Just remember to be vigilant and don’t assume everything is in perfect working order just because you have no issues when riding. Checking regularly will help you spot any potential red flags before they become a major issue.
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Happy riding and have fun on the trails!
