Bike maintenance in 5 easy steps

Step 1: Wear suitable clothing

Since bike maintenance can be messy, we strongly recommend wearing old clothes or work clothes before you start. You’ll be more comfortable and won’t have to worry about getting dirty.

Nobody wants to ruin their favourite new shirt or shoes while working, right? Use this step to gather everything you need before you start. You’ll need clean rags, soap, a brush, degreaser and bike chain lube, a bucket of warm water and a garden hose.

Step 2: Clean thoroughly

Start your bike maintenance by cleaning everything that can be cleaned. Fill your bucket with soap and warm water. Then use your brush and rags to wash the frame, wheels, handlebars, crankset and so on. If you use a garden hose, don’t spray high-pressure water on your bike. You could damage some parts and get water into the hub bearings, which would increase friction.

To clear dust from hard-to-reach spots, you can also use a can of compressed air. That way, you’ll be sure that important parts of your bike, such as the brakes or suspension, work as well as possible.

Step 3: Lubricate the chain

The chain is one of the most important parts of a bike, since it moves the bike forward using the power of your legs. That’s why you need to lubricate it regularly so it moves without friction. Start by degreasing the cassette cogs with your brush, then degrease the chain before lubricating it, gently wiping it with a clean rag.

Be careful not to use too much lube, though. One drop on each link is enough to keep the chain running well. If it’s very dirty, we recommend soaking it in an old container filled with degreaser before lubricating it.

A chain also wears over time from its movement and the strain it’s put under on hills or when carrying weight. Have it checked regularly at our shop to avoid damaging the cogs and chainrings.

Step 4: Check the condition of the parts

If you’ve cleaned your bike well, you’ve probably already noticed any defects or weather damage. If not, it’s time for step four. First check your tires and make sure they’re not damaged or worn. Tires that are too dry or whose tread is no longer visible won’t roll as well and could cause an accident. That’s why we recommend replacing them quickly.

You can also check your shifter and brakes by riding a short distance and braking and shifting at regular intervals. If either is difficult, you’ll need to have some parts adjusted. Feel free to stop by Cyclo Services before you ride so our experts can make the necessary adjustments and repairs!

Step 5: Adjust your saddle and handlebars

Once you’ve checked your bike’s condition, all that’s left is to adjust your saddle and handlebars for comfort. To set the saddle height, sit on the saddle and put your foot on the pedal at its lowest point. If your leg is extended without being locked, you’ve found the best height to ride without tiring too quickly.

Bike maintenance done by experts

If you don’t know how to make the right adjustments to your bike or need to replace some parts, Cyclo Services has everything you need to ride safely. Our repair shop offers two tune-upoptions, and our bike mechanics courses teach you how to do these steps yourself. Feel free to visit us in person or contact us at 1 877 692-4050 or at info@cycloservices.net today!