Basic maintenance tips for new cyclists

Hi all,

Im still quite new to cycling and have often wondered what small and easy maintenance tips one can offer to keep my bike in good working order?

 

I currently have a good floor pump and check tire pressures everytime before I ride. Make sure lights work etc. What else should I do to the bike prior to riding to make sure its in good order short of going to my LBS for adjustments?

 

I know very little about adjusting components on the bike. I leave that side of things up to my LBS. But are there any other typical and easy maintenance tips I need to know and learn before and after a ride?

 

How often should I oil my chain and with what grade/type of lubricant should I use?

 

I plan on attending the Basic Maintenance Course held by Bike SA in October to get some hands on tips too.

 

Any helpful advice to help me get to know my bike a bit better would be appreciated.

Tags: bike, care, maintenance, oil, tips

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Clive Palfrey on September 28, 2011 at 18:53

I remember on one occaision some 18mths ago on a pre ride brief with CVSA the subject of chain cleaning came up and one young lady called out something like "I cleaned my chain yesterday, for the first time in two years", a big laugh for all, mind you her cycling has advanced considerably since then.

Permalink Reply by Shav Bird on September 28, 2011 at 19:04
Thanks for the heads up clive. this all great information
Permalink Reply by CLP on September 28, 2011 at 17:56

inspect the tyre surface every couple of rides for small embedded pieces of glass and flints. if you find any, use a pair of tweezers or a screwdriver (carefully!) to remove these before they work their way further in towards the tube.

 

 

 

Permalink Reply by FraserMcQ on September 28, 2011 at 19:02

And while you're lubing up your chain, don't forget to put a small amount of oil on all the pivot points on the front and rear derailleurs (wiping off any excess). This helps keep your shifting nice and snappy and prevents sticking.

Permalink Reply by David Southern on September 28, 2011 at 21:06

Lubrication of the enclosed sections of brake and gear cables is also important.  Silicone curtain track spray does a good job here.

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