HOW TO CARE
FOR YOUR BIKE

The maintenance schedule for a bike can vary somewhat on how often it's ridden and what condition it's in to begin with. Bikes that are ridden on the bike path near the beach will need a little more TLC than those ridden solely on paved roads.

However, using the following guidelines will help keep a bike in good working condition - and help you know when it's time to bring it in to a mechanic.

BIKE CARE TIPS

• Keep your bike inside; avoid storing it outside. Weather's water, salt and dirt will combine to cause harsh wear and cost you more in repairs and service.
• Bicycles ridden near the beach, in rain and/or off-road typically require more frequent and extensive service. If you are a frequent commuter or distance rider, you may find that your bike needs service more often. Probably because you're having more fun. Nice work!
• Don't use WD40 on your chain!! WD-40 is made for doors and things that move sometimes, not bikes - which have lots of pressure and movement. In fact, WD40 will actually strip your chain of oil, causing metal-on-metal grinding.
• If your bike has been crashed, or you purchased a used bike, we recommend taking it to you favorite bike shop for a thorough check-up to ensure that it's running properly. Where parts connect or move, if instead of turning or moving they "wobble" or creak, something is likely in need of attention. Take it to your favorite shop and have them take a look.
• Enjoy Your Bike! The #1 goal of a bike should be to provide transport and fun. If these details overwhelm you, just focus on the "every ride" section in the left column! If you want to learn more, we invite you to check out our maintenance classes!

every ride
(a safety check)

monthly
(or 500 miles)

six months
(or 2,500 miles)

yearly
(or 6,000 miles)

Check tire pressure. If it's low (if the tire feels "squishy"), fill to the correct PSI - which is listed on side of your tire. 

Clean bicycle frame with a cloth.

Inspect frame and components for signs of wear, such as cracks or dents.

Clean and wax the frame to protect the paint/finish.

Once it's clean, inspect bike frame and fork for any cracks or dents.

Check all bearing systems: hubs, bottom bracket, headset and pedals.

Adjust and/or overhaul as needed, based on their condition.

Glance over the tire tread on both tires for embedded debris, to avoid getting a flat.

Wipe the chain, chainring and cassette cogs with a rag + earth-friendly degreaser.

Re-lube chain, chainring and casette.

Check tires for wear such as dry rot or areas where tread is now too worn. replace if cracks or wear are significant.

Plus check your spare tube and patch kit: make sure the spare still holds air and the patch kit has glue + patches.

Check all brake and gear cables + cable housing for fraying, breakage, rust, corrosion.

Replace if necessary.

If you have quick release parts (such as wheels or seats, instead of nut/bolt), check that they are tight and that the wheels are secure.

Check the wheels for loose spokes. If the spokes are loose, you may need to replace them. (This is pretty inexpensive.)

Check the condition of hubs, bottom bracket, headset. Adjust and/or overhaul as needed.

Replace brake pads, rubber brake hoods and handlebar tape if necessary.

Spin wheels to check for wobbles. If the wheel wobbles (instead of rolling smoothly), this indicates that you need to have your wheel trued.

Using a wrench, test the connection and tightness of the moving + connecting parts: crankarms, pedals, chainring bolts, seat bolt, seatpost bolt, stem bolts, handlebar bolts and all accessory mounting bolts/screws.

Check all cables and housings for fraying, breaks, rust and corrosion and replace if necessary.

Clean and check wheels carefully for signs of wear such as worn sidewalls or cracks where the spoke touches the rim or hub.

Squeeze brakes to make sure they're grabbing.

Glance over brake pads to see that they are in good condition and that they touch the rims (not the tires!)

Lube the brake, derailleur and pedal pivot points.

Check for worn brake pads and replace if needed; also replace worn handlebar tape or grips.

Check the hubs, bottom bracket, headset: adjust and/or overhaul as needed.

If you have a mountain bike, push down on (compress) and release the bike's suspension to be sure that it's responding properly.

Lube the brake and gear cables to prevent binding.

Check the cables for fraying and rusting. replace if necessary.

Check for chain, cassette cog and chainring wear and replace worn parts as needed.

Overhaul the pedals to check the bearings and add fresh grease. (This can be tricky!)

If you're using clipless pedals or toe straps, check them for wear and replace if needed.

Look over the bike chain. Add chain lube if it looks dry.

Check clipless pedals and cleats for loose screws/bolts.

Clean the drivetrain (chain, chainrings, cassette, front and rear derailleurs) with biodegradable solvent and rags.

Maintain and lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owner's manual.

Make sure you are prepared with tools (a spare tube and/or patch kit, tire levers and a pump), in case you encounter a flat while riding. or, that you are close to a bike shop who can do it for you.

If you have a mountain bike, maintain and lube your suspension

If you have a mountain bike, maintain and lube your suspension components.

Lube your frame and home tire pump.

Check basket, racks and accessories - be sure attachments and bolts seem in OK condition.

Thank-you to Keith at bicyclehabitat.com for this information!