Dear Reader,
Like all mechanical contraptions, your bicycle is
vulnerable to wear and tear caused by regular use and
exposure to the elements. Routine preventive
maintenance will keep your bicycle in peak condition
and safe for riding throughout the year. Although some
bicycle repair and maintenance is best performed by a
qualified bike mechanic, you should be able to do
routine maintenance using a few basic tools. Here are
some of the things you can do to keep your bike in
perfect shape.
Tires
Check the pressure of your tires to make sure they are
inflated to proper specifications. Consult the manual
or the tire’s sidewall for information on the range of
acceptable pressures for your tire. Note any splits or
fatigue marks in the sidewall or tread. Inspect the rim
for dents, twists or kinks. Spin each wheel to make
sure it is true and centered in the stays. If the wheel
wobbles from side to side when spun, then it needs
truing. Check if some spokes need to be replaced or
tightened. If your bike is equipped with quick-release
mechanisms, make sure they are securely fastened.
Steering
The handlebars, saddle and pedals must be securely
attached. Check the height of the handlebar stem. Make
sure that the handlebar stem and seatpost are fastened
such that their minimum insertion marks are not
exposed. Handlebars should be tight and in line with
the front wheel. Check if handlebars and front fork are
properly stabilized. You should be able to rotate the
handlebar post freely 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 headset bearings.
Brakes
Squeeze both brake levers and try to 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. Make sure brake
cables are taut. Check the brake cable for breaks or
frayed ends; replace any worn or frayed brake cable.
When brakes are applied, the brake pads (shoes) should
contact squarely with the rim and should not touch the
tire or the spokes.
Chain
Keep your bike’s chain clean and properly lubricated.
Use a rag soaked in de-greaser to remove dirt and
grease buildup. Lubricate the chain after cleaning.
Bike maintenance experts recommend using a web lube in
wet environments and a dry lube in dry environments.
Make sure that the chain moves smoothly without
sticking or jumping.
Tools for basic bicycle maintenance
Proper inspection and maintenance of your bike requires
a few basic tools. The following are the tools you will
need to keep your bike running smoothly and
efficiently. These tools may be purchased from
http://www.BikeNToy.com or from online tool stores like
http://www.BigDaddyTools.com and
http://www.Buy-Tools.com.
Screwdrivers
Allen wrenches
Spoke wrenches
Cone wrenches
Puncture repair kit
Tire pump with a built-in gauge
Tire irons
Chain tool
Multi-tools
Cleaning rags
Degreaser
Lubricants
Sincerely,
-Les Doll
Editor, The RVers Corner
