Whether you ride a bicycle on a regular basis or just occasionally, bicycle maintenance is something you should not overlook. It is crucial to prioritise basic maintenance as a prevention against unsafe conditions and accidents. The last thing you want as a rider is to encounter unexpected breakdowns or accidents. Before embarking on your riding journey, keep the following bicycle maintenance tips in mind.
Learn More: Everything you need to know about Riding a Bicycle
1. Use a suitable chain lube
A bicycle comes with many hard working components and the chain is one of them. Often, large amounts of metal on metal contact is unavoidable between the chain and the rest of the drivetrain components when you pedal. Therefore, it is vital to use a good chain lube to smooth the chain’s engagement with the cassette sprockets and chainrings. This prevents corrosion and ensures proper shifting performance. There are countless types and brands of chain lube available in the market, including dry lubes, wet lubes, ceramic lubes and wax lubes. Each of them features their own ingredients and formulas. Finding one may be a daunting task, so feel free to seek professional advice from repair bicycle shops.
2. Check the tyre pressure
Bicycle tyre pressure is among the key aspects to take care of before you begin a ride. Properly inflated tyres enhance the riding experience. It is advisable to get an actual tyre pressure gauge as it allows you to check the tyre pressure consistently and precisely. The tyres’ pressure range is often shown on the sides for your reference. Learn the following steps to measure the pressure range with an actual gauge.
Step 1: Find the tyre pressure range before using a gauge or inflating.
Step 2: After knowing the psi range, place your tyre gauge on the valve and press down for the gauge needle to move so that a pressure is displayed.
Step 3: Alternate between the air pump and gauge until a desired pressure is reached.
Don’t have a gauge? Fret not as you can still check your tyres’ pressure. The reading may not be 100% accurate but here are some guidelines that can help you improvise. Generally, you should be able to squeeze your bicycle tyre. If you find it too hard to pinch, that means the tyre may have excessive air in it. Checking bicycle tyre pressure on a regular basis can prevent a flat tyre, saving you from the hassle of bicycle repairs.
3. Check for any unusual noises
When bicycles are worn out, they tend to make “weird” noises to “communicate” their distress. To diagnose a bicycle problem, here are some noises that you should take note of:
- Creaking
Possible issues: dry bearings, faulty seatpost, loose chainrings, defective frames
- Rattling
Possible issues: loose headsets, loose chains
- Clicking
Possible issues: bent derailleur hangers, unaligned derailleurs, dry or dirty thru axles
4. Check the brakes
Brake pads wear down over time. Regularly pump them on a quick ride to ensure they are in good condition. Replace your brake pads if you feel they have become soft.
5. Maintain the cleanliness of your bicycle
It is common to ask bike servicing companies in Singapore for help to keep your bicycle in mint condition. Nonetheless, before seeking their assistance, do clean your bicycle regularly as a first step to prolong their lifespan. Cleaning your bike prevents dirt and grease buildup, avoiding the corrosion and breakdown of particular mechanical parts. The bicycle chain, frame, chain rings, pedals and brakes are among the key parts that require routine cleaning.
All in all, your bicycle needs a little love and proper maintenance to go a long way. With this information, we hope you get a clearer picture on how to keep your bicycle in optimal shape.
Operating as a bicycle and skate rental shop in East Coast, Coastline Leisure ensures your pleasant exploration and cycle experience. We are always ready to serve you to our best ability. Call us now to find out more.