Learning to ride a bicycle is not as difficult as some people think. However, if you fall, brush yourself off and jump back on. In addition, learning proper bicycle maintenance can be as easy.
Proper Bicycle maintenance is vital to the performance and preservation of your ride. Your bicycle can go from a lean, mean, two-wheeled machine to a squeaky, rusty, pant leg munching mess without proper care. Maintaining your bike requires regular protective and preventive maintenance, some of which you are more than capable of doing on your own with the help of a sturdy bicycle repair stand. However, other repairs may require the help of a qualified cycle repairer.
Bicycle Maintenance: Tires
Most of the load and pressure fall directly on the tires when riding a bicycle. Check your air pressure to ensure the tires are inflated per the manufacturer’s specifications. Tires should be inspected regularly for ripping or wear and tear signs. Bike tires need regular tuning and adjusting and must be checked for dents and twists caused by collisions or falls.
Spinning is the best way to inspect them. For instance, if the wheel shakes from side to side as it spins, it will need some tightening. Making sure spokes are checked and assuring they’re tight and fixed firmly to the rims is also part of regular bicycle maintenance. The spokes transmit pressure, so they must be replaced immediately if damaged.
Handlebar Maintenance
As the steering wheel of a car, the handlebar is a critical element in steering the bicycle. Handlebars need adjusting to produce the best results. The best practice is adjusting the height to comfortably hold the handlebar when seated. The handlebar should be appropriately aligned with the front wheel to accommodate a quick, smooth change of direction and ensure it swerves in either direction. A properly adjusted front fork is just as essential. The front fork steadies the handlebar and needs to be securely fastened to the handlebar post. Also, ensure that your bicycle maintenance regime includes checking that the pedals are tightly secured.
Brakes
The brake assembly is one of the essential parts of the bike in terms of rider safety. Check the brakes by pressing them and rolling the cycle ahead. If the brakes work correctly, the wheels will not move, and the brake pads will stay directly on the rims without touching the tires. The brake cables are loose if the brake levers touch the handlebars when pressed. Tighten them and check for wear and tear. If the brake cables are damaged, have them replaced as soon as possible.
Bicycle Chain Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your bicycle also includes regular chain lubrication, which produces swift and smooth movement. Accumulated and grime can be removed with the use of a de-greaser. Never forget to put fresh grease on to replace the dirty grease removed. Never forget to keep your chain clean and well-lubricated, which will prevent it from getting stuck or jumping the gear teeth.
Maintaining your bicycle in excellent riding condition doesn’t take a lot of tools or a great deal of professional knowledge. Bicycle maintenance is not a complex task and takes only a little time and effort. Remember that if you keep your bike fit, it will last many years and keep you fit.
