Ready to get back in the saddle this spring? Of course you are, then your first step should be making sure your bicycle is safe to take back on the road. We’ve put together this checklist of spring bicycle maintenance to help get you started this spring.
If your bicycle has bigger problems than just low pressure tires or an unlubricated chain, leave it to the pro’s like us and check out our Bicycle Shop Services page!
Spring Bicycle Maintenance Checklist
1. Tires
- Check to see if tires are worn down or bald, This means that there is no treads left. Make sure that on the sides of your tires there is no cracking or fraying, also make sure that there are no holes or cuts in them. Its time to replace your tires if you see any of these issues.
- Check the tire pressure. Give those tires a squeeze; they should feel as hard as a rock. If they are feeling a bit soft, use a floor pump with a gauge to inflate tires to the recommended pressure printed on the sidewall
2. Chain
- Check to see if your chain is loose or sagging. If it is, come into the shop; you probably need a new chain and cassette and we can get you set up.
- Lubricate the chain. How do you do it? Clean the chain with a soapy rag, and then apply a bicycle lube like T9, White Lightning, or Finnish line. Do not use WD-40—it’s not made for bikes.
3. Brakes
- Take a look at your brake Pads: Spin both of your wheels and make sure your rims are not rubbing against the brake pads. Pull on your brake levers, and make sure the brake pads are making full contact with your rim. They should not be touching the tire or making contact with the spokes. If your pads have a quarter-inch or less of rubber left, its time to replace them.
- Brake Levers: Squeeze each brake lever—there should be more than an inch of space between the brake lever and the handlebar when you squeeze. If your brake levers touch your grips, your brakes need to be tightened. When you release the levers, both sides of the brake should return equally. If one side of the brake rubs against the rim, your brakes need to be adjusted.
Want to learn more about bicycle maintenance than just a safety check? Sign up for our Newsletter or follow us on Facebook, we’ll be sending out information about upcoming clinics and other events. Until then start collecting some of the tools you’ll need to keep your bicycle in the best riding condition:
- Floor pump with pressure gauge
- Tire levers
- Bike lube (Not WD-40 or used motor oil)
- Spare tube
- Patch kit
- Allen wrench (4 mm 5 mm 6 mm)
- Adjustable wrench
- Rags
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