Much like you should be performing regular and routine maintenance on your car – your bike is no different. Below we’ll explore some of the most important things you should be doing on a regular basis to protect your bike from damage.
Store it properly
How you store your bike is an important consideration because the weather can take its toll on the different components. Rain and moisture exposure can lead to rust on the frame, brake pads, chain and drivetrain – all of which can do significant damage to the bike if exposure continues for more than a few days. As such, store your bike in a dry shed, garage or inside your home if you can. If you have to leave your bike outside somewhere, consider investing in tarpaulin to cover your bike and prevent any water damage.
Clean after rides
When you’re out riding your bike, many elements are covered in grit, mud, water and other materials. If these remain on the bike, they can damage the paintwork or components that are essential for the bike to run effectively. Therefore, it’s a good idea to give your bike a clean and dry after each ride to preserve its condition for longer. This can simply be done with a bike cleaning kit or any sort of cloth.
Maintain your chain
The chain and drivetrain are integral parts of any bike but they are also the most prone to failure and damage – particularly if not maintained properly. Regularly lubricate the chain and sprockets to ensure that they don’t wear too quickly and cause a horrible grinding sound when you ride. These elements should also be cleaned often to avoid any damage which can be expensive to repair or replace.
Check your tyres before every ride
Tyre inflation is significant for cars and it’s equally as important for bikes. Properly inflated tyres will help your cycling and energy management on the road or path, and can also reduce the likelihood of flats and punctures upon impact. Invest in a quality pump and pressure gauge and you should be able to identify when your tyres are too flat more easily. You should be able to find the suggested pressure of your tyres on the manufacturer’s or retailer’s website.
