BASIC BICYCLE MAINTENANCE
Basic Toolkit:
Check your tires: If you can push
down on them with your thumb
then they need to be inflated. You
may need to pump your tires at
least once a week.
Check brakes: Give the brake
levers a squeeze and ensure the
brakes are working. Also glance
down at the brake pads and make
sure they are aligned with the rim.
-
Puncture repair kit
Wrench
Pump
Allen key
*Give your bike a complete clean
*Lubricate your bike after cleaning
*Inspect accessories and bike
1
Use a wet brush to scrub the chain.
Work your way into each link.
2
Run the chain through a damp cloth.
If the chain is still not clean, spray on
some degreaser. Allow it to set then
brush the chain to remove any dirt
and finally run it through the cloth
again. Do not leave any degreaser on
the chain as it can damage it.
PUNCTURE REPAIR KIT
Maintenance Tools:
3
Check quick releases and bolts:
Be sure any quick releases and
bolts are firmly secured.
Once a Month….
Cleaning your Bike:
BIKE
LUBE
Brush, toothbrush, bucket with warm water and a rag, degreaser, bicycle lubricant
4
Use a wet brush to clean the rear
sprockets and derailleur. Again, use
degreaser as necessary.
Use a toothbrush or damp cloth to
get in between each sprocket and
remove any dirt.
Saddle: Make sure it is
held securely and aligned
straight.
Gears: Check the full
range of gears and see if
the chain shifts easily
when you change gears.
Brakes: The brakes
should be fully engaged
when the brake levers are
pulled halfway. Check
for worn brake pads and
noisy brakes.
Handlebars: Lift the bike
and twist the handlebars.
They should turn
smoothly but should not
be loose.
Wheels: Give them a spin
and check that they don’t
wobble side to side too
much. Also check the
rims to make sure they
aren’t damaged or worn.
Chain: Check for heavy
chain wear and rust.
Pedals: Try to wobble them and check that they are held firmly.
6
Use a brush to scrub the rear
derailleur.
The chain rings can be cleaned in a
similar fashion. Use your brush
with warm water and then a
toothbrush to get to the hard to
reach places.
7
To clean the frame, use a damp
cloth. Do not use any cleaners;
some contain salt which can rust
the frame.
8
The wheel rims and brake pads
should be cleaned with a clean dry
cloth.
Lubricating your Bike:
Frame: Inspect the frame for any cracks or major dents. Also check the cables for fraying.
Tires: Check for worn or
cracked tires.
5
BIKE
LUBE
Every Ride….
 Spin the chain slowly and apply one drop per between
each chain link as it spins. Spread the lube by shifting
between all the different gears.
 Brake and shift cables also need lubricating. Remove the
cable from its housing and work in a tiny bit of lube with
your fingers.
 The rear derailleur also needs lubrication to keep
working well.
 Give the lube five minutes to dry and then use a dry
cloth to wipe away any excess.