Let’s look at how to preserve your bicycle because like all mechanical devices, your bike is exposed to wear and tear caused by regular use and exposure to the elements.
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Routine preventative maintenance will keep your bicycle in top condition and safe to ride all the time. Though some cycle maintenance and repairs are best performed by a professional bike engineer, you ought to be able to do routine maintenance employing a few basic tools.
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How To Preserve Your Bike
Tires
Check the pressure of your tires regularly to be sure they are inflated to correct specs.
Consult the manual or the tire’s sidewall for info on the range of sufficient pressures for your tires. Note any splits or fatigue marks in the sidewall or tread. Check the edge of the tires for dents, twists or kinks.
Spin each wheel to make sure it’s right and focused in the stays. If the wheel wobbles from side to side when spun, then it needs truing.
Check if some spokes must be replaced or tightened. If your bike is fitted with quick-release mechanisms, make sure they are safely fastened.
Steering
The handlebars, saddle and pedals must be securely attached when it comes to how to preserve your bike.
Check the peak of the handlebar stem. Ensure that the handlebar stem and seatpost are fastened such that their minimum insertion marks aren’t exposed.
Handlebars should be tight and in accordance with the front wheel. Check if handlebars and front fork are properly stabilised.
You ought to be able to revolve the handlebar post unreservedly in the front fork.
Tighten the bolts that attach the pedal crank-arms to the front bearing. Pedals should be tight, with no binding. Check for looseness in front and earphone set bearings.
Brakes
Squeeze both brake levers and try and roll the bike to check if the brakes are operating properly.
If the bike moves while the brave levers are squeezed or if the brake levers touch the handlebar, then your brakes are too loose and need some adjusting.
Confirm brake cables are taut. Check the brake cable for breaks or frayed ends and replace any worn or frayed brake cable.
When brakes are applied, the brake pads (shoes) should make contact precisely with the edge and should not touch the tire or the spokes.
Chain
Keep your bike’s chain clean and properly lubricated.
Utilise a rag doused in de-greaser to get rid of dirt and grease buildup. Lubricate the chain after cleaning.
Bike maintenance pros recommend employing a wet lube in wet environments and a dry lube in dry environments. Ensure that the chain moves smoothly without sticking or jumping.
If you know how to preserve your bike and you are diligent about doing maintenance on a regular basis, there is no reason why your bike won’t give you many years of riding pleasure ahead.