Keep Your Wheels Turning: Simple Bike Maintenance Tips You Can Do at Home
With the improvement in the weather and summer on the horizon, we're seeing a big increase in people getting their bikes out of storage and hitting road / gravel / trails, so we've put together some easy-to-follow tips for looking after your trusty steed right in your own home.
Love Your Chain: Keep it Clean and Smooth
Your bike's chain might look simple, but it's the powerhouse of your ride. A little care here goes a long way. Keeping it clean and well-oiled means smoother gear changes and helps other parts like your cassette and derailleurs last longer. Grab an old rag and some bike-specific degreaser for a quick clean. If you want to get into the nitty-gritty, a chain cleaning tool is a great investment.
While you're at it, check for wear. Tools like a Chain Checker can quickly tell you if your chain is nearing the end of its life. Replacing a worn chain early can save you money down the road by preventing wear on your chainrings and cassette. Also, give those chain pins a look to make sure they're all snug in place – no one wants a mid-ride surprise! When it comes to bike care, you've got options. Brands like Fenwicks, Finish Line and Ceramic Speed offer fantastic products designed for all sorts of conditions, and many are even kind to the environment.
Brake Basics: Safety First!
When it comes to your bike, your brakes are arguably the most important part – you definitely don't want to neglect them! Whether you have traditional rim brakes or modern disc brakes, the principle is the same: your brake pads need to be in good condition. For rim brakes, take your wheels off and look for the wear indicator line on the pads. If you've reached it, it's time for new pads.
Disc brake pads often let you know they're getting thin with a squealing or grinding sound. You can also take a peek at the pad thickness. If you see the metal of the caliper starting to show, it’s another sign for replacement. Lastly, don't forget about your brake cables. Frayed ends, damaged casings, or slack cables mean it's time for an adjustment or replacement.
Smooth Shifts: Indexing Your Gears
Remember that feeling when your brand-new bike shifted gears like a dream? After a few rides, things might not be quite as slick. Cables can stretch with use, causing your gears to become a little misaligned. Don't worry, though, it's usually an easy fix. Most of the time, you can index your gears using the barrel adjuster on your rear derailleur. If the cable needs a bit more attention, a set of Allen keys or a multi-tool will help you adjust the cable tension and ensure your chain moves smoothly between the chainrings and cassette cogs.
Wheel Wisdom: Keeping Things Rolling
A smooth ride relies heavily on your wheels. They're made up of several parts that all need to work together. At the center is the hub. Most modern hubs are sealed, so dirt and water shouldn't be an issue. However, if you hear clicking or other unusual noises, it's best to have a professional mechanic take a look. If you have rim brakes, keep an eye on the brake track for wear. Grooves or indents are a sign the rim might need replacing.
Hitting a pothole or transporting your bike can sometimes knock your wheels out of alignment. This usually requires adjusting the spokes, which can be a bit of an art. You'll need a spoke key and ideally a wheel truing stand, along with some experience. A slightly wobbly wheel might be rideable, but any significant sideways movement means it's time to seek professional help.
Tyre TLC: Your Connection to the Road
Your tyres are what connect you to the ground, so their condition affects everything from puncture resistance and comfort to performance and safety. Before each ride, give your tyres a quick once-over for cuts or any debris that might be stuck in the rubber. Removing things like flints, glass, or stones can prevent a puncture later on. Many tyres also have tread patterns that wear down over time. If the tread is gone, it’s time for new tyres.
Rear tyres can also become squared off, especially if you use a turbo trainer or ride a lot. If this happens, replacing the tyre is a good idea. Finally, regularly check your tyre pressure. The recommended pressure is usually printed on the side of the tyre. Remember that in wet conditions, you might want to run the pressure a bit lower for better grip.
Bolt Basics: Staying Secure
Bolts, whether they're holding your handlebars or your seatpost, take a lot of stress every time you ride. Use a tool to make sure they're tightened to the recommended level and aren't showing signs of damage is crucial for your safety. Investing in a torque wrench is a great way to avoid over- or under-tightening bolts. If a bolt head becomes rounded, most DIY stores will have replacements.
One last thing to consider: if you use your bike on a turbo trainer, sweat can build up on the stem bolts. Regularly check these bolts for any signs of corrosion.
Handlebar and Saddle: Comfort and Control
Think about how many hours you spend sitting on your saddle and holding onto your handlebars – it's no wonder these parts can show wear. Make sure your handlebar tape is intact to keep your hands comfortable and provide the grip you need. Replacing bar tape is a simple task with many online tutorials to guide you. Also, check that your bar end plugs are firmly in place as a safety measure.
The condition of your saddle is also important. Inspect the cover, underside, and rails for any signs of wear or cracks.
Keep it Clean: A Happy Bike is a Healthy Bike
Spotting wear and potential issues early is key for safety and can prevent small problems from becoming big ones. Cleaning your bike isn't just about looks; it allows you to inspect the frame, wheels, and components closely. It doesn't have to take hours – even a quick 10-minute clean can make a difference.
Keeping on top of your bike's maintenance doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips, you can keep your bike running smoothly and safely for many rides to come. If you encounter any issues that need professional attention, don't hesitate to book your bike in us here at Billy Bilsland Cycles or your local bike shop.
You can get us on 0141 552 0841 or sales@billybilslandcycles.co.uk, and we're open 7 days.