Safety should always be prioritized before riding a bicycle, whether you want to go on a long trip or just a short exercise. With good safety habits and proper bicycle maintenance, cyclists will not have to suffer from avoidable issues. Cyclists should not neglect the relevance of safe riding procedures and precautions.
Before riding, it is wise to ensure your bicycle is properly working. This article will reveal the significance of bicycle maintenance and how you can take care of your bicycle for safe cycling.
What is Bicycle Maintenance?
Bicycle maintenance is checking your bicycle regularly to avoid a breakdown when cycling. It includes servicing your bicycle to maintain optimal performance and fixing basic issues you may encounter. A properly maintained bicycle will increase the cyclist’s safety and guarantee a journey free from hurdles.
Bicycle Maintenance Tips
Essential maintenance tips to help make sure your bicycle is in the best working condition include:
Have a Cleaning Routine
Cleaning your bicycle helps remove dust and grease, affecting its condition. Dirt can accumulate if you often ride around muddy areas, so try to clean your bicycle frequently. Basic cleaning supplies include cleaning rags, brushes, soap, water, and a degreaser.
Inspect the Tires
Your tires are important parts of your bicycle, as the riding depends on them. It is important to understand and monitor tire pressure, which changes according to weather conditions. The pressure often rises when it is hot and lowers when it is cold.
Keep your tires inflated properly, especially during cold weather, where they may become flat. You should carry your pump and patch kit with you when you ride.
Check the Breaks
Performing maintenance checks on the brake pads of your bicycle is necessary. It would be best if you inspected how your brakes feel and listened to how they sound when you ride. If the brakes feel like they need more pressure to be applied, you might have to take your bicycle for a professional inspection.
Keep Moving Parts Lubricated
Lubrication helps protect moving bicycle parts from rust, freezing up, and wear caused by friction. Lubricating your bicycle chain will make your bicycle shift smoothly and lengthen your drive train. Remember that over-lubricating can lead to poor performance and subsequent damage.
There are two types of bicycle lubricants: wet lube and dry lube. Wet lube should be used when you plan to ride in wet conditions. In dry conditions, apply dry lube instead.
Check Belts
Checking the belts of a bicycle is often overlooked, but it is a great maintenance practice. The belts contribute to your bicycle’s operation and should also be inspected. Check for signs of wear, such as cracking, glazing, and material loss. Replace it if you find any of these faults.
Go on a Test Ride
A test ride helps you know if your bicycle works as intended after working on it. It may show you other issues that may need further repair.
Conclusion
This article has emphasized the need for bicycle maintenance. If you own a bicycle, follow our tips to ensure your safety when next you want to ride on the road. “Prioritize proper bicycle maintenance. By regularly checking and maintaining your bicycle, you can prevent breakdowns, optimize performance, and enjoy a safe and smooth riding experience,” says attorney André Busald of Busald Funk Zevely.