Bicycle Maintenance

  Ah yes, bicycle maintenance, by far and away the second most common question asked at the shop besides which bike should I get.  But, fear not because user end bike maintenance is in reality fairly simple and will help ensure your bike will function well.

1.        Before every ride you need to either check the tire pressure with a gauge or use a bike floor pump to add pressure.  It is typical for an inner tube to lose a bit of pressure or psi every day, the air will slowly leak out of the butyl tube because it is microscopically porous, and because the tube requires relatively high pressure with a low volume of air.  For example a road bike usually requires pressure ranging from 100-120 psi in a very small tube whereas your car tire requires a large volume of air but lower pressures 30-40 depending on the vehicle.  Not having the proper pressure can cause what is known as a pinch flat which is when the inner tube presses against the metal rim and punctures in two small spots resembling a snake bite.

2.        You need to lubricate your chain every two or three weeks or after riding in wet conditions.  A poorly lubricated chain will increase friction and cause your drivetrain (chain, cassette, front & rear derailleur) additional stress which may cause them to wear out prematurely. 

3.        Wash your bike but not with a pressure washer or the garden hose, simply wipe it down with a hot soapy rag or use a bike cleaning product.  Your bike will collect road grime and your sweat will leave a residue on the bike which overtime may be harmful to it, so wash it every once and awhile just like you do your car.  But do not spray water directly at the wheels, cranks, or fork because you may inadvertently force water and dirt into the bearings located at these points and cause yourself further issues.

4.        Check to make sure everything is tight and secure on the bike.  Make sure your quick release skewer is in the closed position and snug or if you have bolt on wheels that the axle nuts are on tight.  Make sure your handle bars are straight and aligned with the front wheel, seat post is secure, and finally grab both of the crank arms and make sure they do not move side to side.   By looking over the bike to check these things every couple of weeks you can avoid more costly repairs down the road.

5.       Visually inspect your tires for excessive wear, if you can see the threads in the casing of the tire it means it is time for a new tire.

6.       Finally, when in doubt bring your bike into the shop and have us look at it for you.  We offer lifetime free adjustments on all bikes purchased from us and we are always more than happy to help out a customer.  Frequently a small issue is very easy to fix and costs nothing but ignore that small issue and it may grow into a much more costly one.