The season has finally arrived. You're ready to pull the bike
out of storage and start to do some serious cruising. But before
you wander off into the wonderful outdoors, you need to make sure
your bike is in great shape. Use these 8 tips to bicycle maintenance
to make sure your bike is as ready as you are.
1. Check the tires
Have a look at the tires. Are there any cracking from rotting
or threads showing. If the answer is yes, it's time to invest
in some new tires. If you need to replace the tires, why not
try the new tires with a Kevlar bead that improve acceleration
because they reduce the weight. Be sure to replace your tires
with the correct size and appropriate tire style for the riding
you will be doing.
2. Check the tubes
If you're riding clinchers, you will need to check the tubes.
Check that the valve stems aren't bent or broken. Wet the tube
down, then fill it with air and then watch for bubbling because
that would indicate a leak. Anther option would be for you to
just replace the tubes and know you're good for the season.
If you like, you can upgrade the tubes to the lightweight tubes.
3. Check the rims
Check the rims for cracks or dents. If you spot a dent you can
try pounding it out but be careful to not do more damage. If
the rim is really banged up, you are going to have to get your
check book out and buy a new one.
4. Check the spokes
Check for broken or chewed up spokes and replace any damaged
spokes. Using an incorrectly sized spoke can be dangerous, so
you will need to take one of the old ones with you to the bike
shop to make sure you get the correct size. When replacing the
spokes, you need to stretch them out when they are in place
and tightened, but before you true the wheel.
5. True the wheel
Learning to true the wheel can take a bit of practice but it
certainly is a skill that is worth learning. It will save you
plenty of money because you won't have to keep taking your bike
to the shop every time you knock the alignment out. Every time
you hit a boulder, land in a pothole or fall off a cliff, you
will need to true your wheels. We recommend you carry a spoke
wrench and a couple of spare spokes with you at all times.
6. Spin the wheels
Give the wheels a spin to make sure they are spinning smoothly.
If the wheels aren't spinning smoothly, it is time to replace
the bearings. You should also repack or regrease the bearings
once a year.
7. Check the chain
Push down on the right pedal to put tension on the chain and
then measure the length of 12 links. It should measure no more
than 12 1/8". If it does, you need a new chain. A new chain
measures exactly 12" for each 12 links, which is an inch a foot.
8. Check and clean the chain
First check each chain link to make sure there are no broken
or misshapen teeth. If there is you need to replace the chain.
You can replace with one of the new light weight aluminum chains
if you wish. If the chain is in good shape then you need to
clean the chain. Purchase a can of bike chain cleaner which
comes in spray form. Spray it on the chain, the dirt and grease
will run off the chain, then wipe down the chain and reapply
the chain lubricant.
Follow these 8 tips to bike maintenance and you'll be smooth
sailing or should I say smooth peddling all season!
