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Learning to ride a bike is not a big deal. If you fall off, simply brush yourself off and climb back on. Prevent brain injuries by wearing a helmet. Learning how to keep your bike from falling apart can be just as simple.
Bicycle maintenance is vital to the preservation and performance of your ride. Without proper maintenance, your bike will quickly go from a lean, mean, two-wheeled machine, to a rusty, squeaky, pant leg munching mess. Keeping your bicycle in top condition requires regular preventive and protective maintenance, some of which can be done by you. Other works may require the skills of a professional cycle repairer.
Tires
When riding a bicycle, most of the pressure and load falls directly on the tires. Check your air pressure to ensure the tires are inflated as per the manufacturer’s specifications. Tires should be inspected on a regular basis for any indications of ripping, or wear and tear. Wheels need regular adjustment and tuning, and should be checked for dents and twists caused by collisions or falls. Spinning is the best step to check a wheel. If the wheel shakes from side to side as it spins, it will have to be tightened. Spokes also require to be tightened and fixed firmly to the rims as part of regular bicycle maintenance. The spokes transmit pressure, so if they’re damaged they must be replaced urgently.
Handlebar
Similar to the steering wheel of a car, the handlebar is a major component in maneuvering the bicycle. A handlebar requires to be adjusted to produce the best results. Adjust the height so that you can comfortably grasp the handlebar when seated. The handlebar should be properly aligned with the front wheel, to accommodate both smooth changes and quick swerves in either direction. A properly adjusted front fork is equally vital. The front fork stabilizes the handlebar and should be firmly fastened to the handlebar post. Also, ensure that your bicycle maintenance regime includes checking that the pedals are tightly secured.
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Brakes
The single most critical part of the bicycle for rider safety is the brake assembly. Test the brakes by squeezing them and rolling the bike ahead. If the brakes work properly, the wheels will not roll and the brake pads will remain squarely on the rims without touching the tires. If the brake levers touch the handlebars when pressed, it simply means the brake cables are loose. Tighten them and test for wear. If the brake cables are worn, have them replaced. Newer disc brakes, especially hydraulic ones, have to be maintained by your neighborhood bike shop.
Chain
Proper bicycle maintenance includes regular lubrication of the chain, to produce swift and smooth movement. Use a de-greaser to eliminate accumulated dirt on the grease. Remember to put fresh grease on to replace the dirty grease that has been eradicated. Maintaining your chain clean and well lubricated will keep it from getting stuck or jumping the gear teeth.
Keeping your bicycle in top riding condition doesn’t take a lot of tools or a great deal of technical knowledge. Bicycle maintenance is a basic task that takes only a little time and effort. Keep your bike well and it will last many years keeping you fit.
Tagged with: bicycle type • bike maintenance
Filed under: Bikes