How to make your bike like new
Do you worry about keeping your bike like new from the day you get it? Do you have questions about how to best maintain your bike?
Then don’t miss this series of tips that will help you to keep your bike like new without spending a whole lot of time. Take note!
The best tips for keeping your bike like new
Bicycle maintenance can be divided into two main parts: short-term and long-term.
The short-term maintenance, in turn, includes tasks that should be done before and after a ride. Therefore, we will distribute our tips throughout these main sections so you don’t miss out on any of them and you can keep your bike just like it was when you bought it, even if that was many years ago.
Before going on a ride…
Make sure the brakes are okay by checking the cable tension and the wear on the brake pads.
Do you have the right quick release levers or did you forget to change out the Bkool levers?
Take a look at the wheels to make sure they both turn true. The best way to do this is to stand in front of the bike and pick it up by the handlebar so that you can look at both tires head on and from above.
Do you have everything you need? Quickly check to make sure you’re not forgetting the essentials, like a small kit to fix flats or make quick repairs.
When you get back from the ride…
Check the tires. Make sure there is nothing stuck to them. You should also take a look at the condition of the spokes and rims, especially if you rode over bumpy terrain.
The cleats and pedals are one of the areas where dirt is most likely to accumulate. If you clean them now, you will keep dirt from building up in hard-to-reach areas.
Clean your cherished bike thoroughly. It’s very important that you leave it shiny and dry to keep certain parts from wearing or rusting.
Long-term maintenance (once a year for example)…
Always try to keep the air in the tires at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer. This will avoid a lot of problems with the tires by causing them to wear less, and it will also make it easier and more comfortable to pedal.
Always keep the chain clean and properly greased.
Use a wear indicator from time to time to check the wear on the chain. Replacing the chain in time will prevent much more expensive problems and other headaches while riding. It’s also very important to keep the gears clean.
Keep an eye on the brake pads and replace them when they look worn. That way, your brake discs won’t suffer from regular use.
If you use your bike every week, check it periodically yourself or take it to a bike shop you trust. Keep an ear out for noise! Any strange sound is usually a sign of a problem. The same thing goes for unusual vibrations.