The new year offers the perfect time to make a resolution to spend more time on your bike, and from everyday maintenance to an annual checkup, taking care of your bike will make sure it’s ready to roll when you are. Whether you ride a cruiser, an e-bike, or are lucky enough to have one of each, proper upkeep is the secret to a long life.
To make it easy to stay on top of what needs to happen when, we asked Jim for an overview of bike maintenance and repair every rider should have in mind this month and all year round. We’re open year around, so feel free to call or stop by anytime so that our team of bike experts can help!
With Every Ride
Before you start pedaling, take a minute or two to inspect your bike. Do you have the right amount of air in your tires? Are your brakes functioning? Is the chain properly lubed? These are the ABCs of bike maintenance – air, brakes, and chain.
To check the air, squeeze your tires. The tire should give slightly but still feel firm. Even better, verify the PSI by finding it on the sidewall of the tire and checking it with a bike pump. Tires that are too low can mean a difficult ride or even a bent rim, so don’t take off without the correct air pressure. This step is particularly important after a temperature change, which can affect the pressure in your tires.
Next, test your brakes. You can do this by squeezing the brake lever. Do the brakes feel solid? When your wheel is spinning, do the brake pads connect smoothly and stop the bike? Don’t ride with faulty brakes.
Finally, look at your chain to see if it moves easily – you can do this by turning your pedal backwards manually. If needed, add lubrication.
Before you head out, take just another moment to test your lights, ensure any accessories like baskets or trailers are securely fastened, and give your bell a ring. If everything looks good, you are ready to go!
Monthly Maintenance
A clean bike is a happy bike. Depending on the amount you ride and the environment you do it in, aim for cleaning and lubricating your bike at least once a month. In a humid, salty environment like Hilton Head Island, you may want to do this more often, especially if you ride on or near the beach.
Most parts of your bike can be tackled with warm water and a bit of gentle soap. After you rinse, clean your drivetrain with a degreaser and brush out any dirt, then dry it with a soft cloth. When you are done, be sure to lubricate it before your next ride.
Take time during this maintenance ritual to more thoroughly inspect your bike too. Check wear on brake pads, tighten bolts if needed, look for any issues or areas that require repair. If you notice anything, fix it before you ride.
Annual Bike Maintenance
Even when you take care of your bike every day of the year, it’s a good idea to send it in for an annual checkup. Have your bike professionally serviced each year, especially if you have an e-bike.Warmer weather is coming soon, so January is an excellent time to bring in your bike to get it ready for all the spring rides you are looking forward to. This month, to make bike repair simple, Hilton Head Bicycle Company offers free pick-up and delivery for bike tune-ups.