If you are a cyclist who regularly races or uses it to commute to work, no matter what type of rider you are, it is crucial that you stay on top of maintenance in order to prevent accidents or any costly surprises.
If you regularly maintain your bike, you won’t have to worry about any issues occurring. Bike maintenance is totally doable on your own at home. Here are some simple maintenance tips you can follow to keep your bike rolling well:
Keep it clean
Just like you would clean a car every now and then, your bike really shouldn’t be any different. If you want your bike to keep looking as good as new, you will want to make sure that you give it a wash every once in a while. Washing it will also help prevent too much dirt or grease buildup from ruining the mechanical parts of your bike.
You can simply get a bucket of water with a few drops of biodegradable soap, a large sponge, and a toothbrush for those hard to reach spots. You should really get into the bike's frame, chain, its rings, the pedals, the brakes, and the seat.
When you're done take a cheap cotton towel and towel it down nice and dry.
Lubricate your bicycle
You should always wipe and clean your chain after each ride. This will allow time for the lube to sink into it more properly. Lubing before a ride will only cause any dust or debris to stick to it, which will negatively impact shifting.
Check your tyres frequently
There is nothing more inconvenient than having to change a flat tyre while you're riding. You should take some time to inspect your tyres and check their pressure before each use. When you've ensured that your tyres are inflated, make sure to regularly check for any damage or wear.
Tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws
You don't want your bike falling apart while you ride. Just before you head out, check that you haven't lost any nuts or bolts during your last ride, and if you feel like your ride isn't as sturdy as usual, you should take a little bit of time to tighten them.
Check your brakes
Good brakes are important, and brake pads can wear down over time, so you should give them a quick look between each service visit. If you feel like your brakes are soft, they may need to be replaced or attended to.
Have the basic kit to fix a flat tyre
When you are out riding, you want to make sure that you are prepared for if there is an issue with your tyres or tubes. You should have a small tool set with you, including a really strong tyre lever and an innertube as well as a pump in case you need to change a flat on the go. Some sort of small seat mounted bag or pannier of bike backpack is helpful.
Professional Bike Care
Besides all these maintenance tips, you can also get your bike fixed by taking it to a shop or have a mobile mechanic visit when needed. Don't leave your bike sitting around to collect dust and make sure that all parts are well taken care of. A shop or mobile mechanic will be able to help you not only repair but fix any issues you might be having.
If you’re looking for a in Bristol or Bath, Boing Bicycles is a great option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you.