FAQ About Bicycle Care - Bike Maintenance

The frequency of cleaning and lubricating your bike chain depends on various factors, including the type of riding conditions, weather, and the type of lubricant used. However, a general guideline is to clean and lubricate your bike chain every 100-200 miles (160-320 kilometers) or more frequently if you ride in adverse conditions.

Dry Lube:

• Ideal for dry and dusty conditions.
• Penetrates quickly and dries to a clean, wax-like film, minimizing dirt and grime buildup.
• Requires more frequent reapplication in wet conditions.

Wet Lube:

• Suitable for wet and muddy conditions.
• Provides better protection against water and mud, but can attract more dirt.
• Tends to be more durable in wet weather, requiring less frequent reapplication.

All-Purpose or Ceramic Lube:

• Offers a compromise between dry and wet lubes, suitable for a range of conditions.
• Contains ceramic particles or other additives to enhance performance and durability.
• Provides a good balance of protection and cleanliness.

When choosing a specific lubricant, consider the following tips:

• Read the Manufacturer's Recommendations: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the specific lubricant you choose. They often provide information on application frequency and suitability for certain conditions.
• Clean the Chain Before Applying: Regardless of the lubricant type, it's crucial to clean the chain thoroughly before applying a new layer of lubricant. This ensures better penetration and performance.
• Apply Moderately: Avoid over-lubricating the chain, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and debris. Apply a small amount and wipe off any excess.
• Consider the Riding Conditions: Tailor your choice to the typical weather and terrain you ride in. If you often encounter wet or muddy conditions, a wet lube might be more appropriate.

Chain Wear Measurement:

• Use a chain wear indicator tool (also known as a chain checker) to measure chain wear. These tools check for elongation in the chain. If the chain has stretched beyond a certain point, it's an indication that it needs replacement.
• A common threshold is 0.5% wear for a single-speed or internally geared bike and 0.75% wear for a bike with a derailleur system.

Visual Inspection:

• Regularly inspect your chain for signs of wear, rust, or damage. Look for elongation of the chain links, especially at the rollers.
• If you notice any kinks, stiff links, or visible damage, it's a sign that the chain may need replacement.

Shifting Issues:

• If you experience difficulty shifting smoothly or notice chain slippage, it could be a sign of excessive chain wear. Worn-out chains can cause poor engagement with the cassette and chainrings.

Cassette and Chainring Wear:

• A heavily worn chain can accelerate the wear of cassette cogs and chainrings. If you observe significant wear on these components, it's a good idea to replace the chain before further damage occurs.

Chain Noise:

• A worn-out chain can create more noise during pedaling. If you hear excessive clicking or grinding sounds, it may indicate that the chain is no longer meshing properly with the cassette and chainrings.

Frequent Chain Breaks or Repairs:

• If you find yourself frequently dealing with chain breaks or having to repair the chain, it may be a sign that the chain has reached the end of its service life.

Check brake cables every 3-6 months for wear and tension. Replace them if frayed, rusted, or if braking performance is compromised.

Set saddle height to allow a slight bend in the knee at full leg extension. Adjust for comfort, efficiency, and prevent overextension.

Basic bicycle maintenance tools include:

• Multi-tool with Allen wrenches
• Tire levers
• Bike pump
• Chain breaker
• Chain lubricant
• Pedal wrench
• Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
• Adjustable wrench
• Cable cutters
• Chain wear indicator
• Torque wrench (optional)
• Cassette lockring tool
• Bottom bracket tool
• Spoke wrench
• Bike stand (optional, but helpful)

Check Pressure:

• Use a pressure gauge to check the current tire pressure. The recommended pressure is usually imprinted on the tire sidewall.

Valve Type:

• Identify your valve type: Presta or Schrader. Presta valves have a smaller diameter and require unscrewing the top before inflating.

Prepare Pump:

• Ensure your pump is compatible with your valve type. Presta valves may require an adapter.

Inflate:

• Place the pump nozzle onto the valve and secure it. Inflate the tire gradually, periodically checking the pressure with the gauge.

Check Pressure:

• Stop inflating when you reach the recommended pressure. Use the pressure gauge to verify.

Close Presta Valve (if applicable):

• If you have a Presta valve, tighten the small nut on top of the valve to close it.

Repeat for Other Tire:

• Repeat the process for the other tire, ensuring both have the correct pressure.

Regular Checks:

• Check tire pressure regularly, at least once a week or before each ride, to maintain optimal performance and prevent flats.

Regularly clean your bike with mild soap and water. Remove dirt, salt, and debris that can contribute to rust. After cleaning or riding in wet conditions, dry your bike thoroughly. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas where water might accumulate.

Use a bicycle-specific frame wax or polish to provide a protective coating on the frame. This helps repel water and prevent rust. Install fenders to reduce water and mud splatter onto the frame and components. When not in use, store your bike indoors to protect it from the elements.

Use a clear frame protector or tape to shield the frame from cable rub and potential paint damage. Regularly lubricate the chain, derailleur pivots, and other moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Apply a rust inhibitor or corrosion-resistant spray to vulnerable components like bolts, nuts, and small parts.

Check Cable Tension:

• Ensure proper cable tension at the rear derailleur. Use barrel adjusters to make adjustments.

Inspect Cable and Housing:

• Look for frayed or damaged shift cables. Replace if necessary. Ensure housing is properly seated and not kinked.

Check Derailleur Hanger:

• Ensure the derailleur hanger is straight. Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool if needed.

Lubricate Pivot Points:

• Lubricate derailleur pivot points with a suitable lubricant to ensure smooth movement.

Adjust Limit Screws:

• Adjust high and low limit screws to prevent chain overshift or dropping.

Inspect Chain and Cassette:

• Check for worn or damaged chain and cassette. Replace if necessary.

Check Shifter Function:

• Ensure shifter is functioning properly. Clean or replace if needed.

Perform Indexing Adjustment:

• Fine-tune indexing by adjusting barrel adjusters. Shift through all gears to ensure smooth operation.

Inspect Chainline:

• Check chainline for misalignment. Adjust chainring or cassette spacers if needed.

Ensure Proper Chain Length:

• Check chain length to ensure it's within the recommended limits.

Inspect Jockey Wheels:

• Check jockey wheels for wear. Replace if teeth are excessively worn.

Check Frame Alignment:

• Ensure the frame is not bent or damaged, affecting derailleur alignment.

Check and tighten bike bolts every 3-6 months or more frequently if you notice any loosening during rides.

Loosen stem bolts, adjust headset with an Allen wrench, tighten stem bolts snugly, and check for smooth steering without play.

Check Tightness:

• Ensure all bolts, especially on the cockpit (handlebars, stem, and headset), are tightened to the recommended torque.

Lubricate Contact Points:

• Apply a small amount of bicycle-specific grease to areas with metal-to-metal contact, such as the stem bolts and seat post.

Inspect Pedals and Crankset:

• Check pedal threads and ensure they are properly tightened. Check crankset bolts and tighten if necessary.

Examine Saddle and Seatpost:

• Ensure the saddle is securely attached to the seatpost and the seatpost is properly inserted into the frame. Tighten bolts as needed.

Check Bottom Bracket:

• Inspect the bottom bracket for any play or creaking. Tighten or replace if necessary.

Inspect Chainring Bolts:

• Ensure chainring bolts are properly tightened. A loose chainring can cause creaking.

Grease Pedal Threads:

• Remove pedals, apply grease to the threads, and reinstall them securely.

Evaluate Wheel Quick Releases or Thru-Axles:

• Check for proper tension on quick releases or thru-axles. Ensure they are tightened securely.

Examine Disc Brake Rotors:

• Check disc brake rotor bolts for tightness. Loose bolts can cause creaking.

Inspect Suspension Components:

• If you have suspension components, check pivot points and bolts for proper tightness. Lubricate as needed.

Clean and Lubricate Chain:

• Ensure the chain is clean and properly lubricated. A dry or dirty chain can contribute to creaking.

Evaluate Headset:

• Check headset bearings and adjust tension if necessary. Tighten top cap and stem bolts appropriately.

Chain slipping can be due to a worn chain, cassette, or misadjusted derailleur. Replace the worn components and adjust the derailleur for proper tension.

Regularly clean and lubricate stanchions, check for air pressure or spring adjustments, and service the suspension according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Store your bike in a dry, cool place, preferably indoors. Clean and lubricate the chain, and consider using a bike cover to protect it from dust.

While WD-40 can provide short-term lubrication, it's not ideal for long-lasting chain lubrication. Use a dedicated bicycle chain lubricant for better performance and protection.

Check for worn tread, visible cuts or bulges, and sidewall damage. Replace tires if the tread is worn down, or if there are signs of damage affecting structural integrity.

Regularly check tire sealant levels, inspect for cuts or punctures, and periodically remove the tire to clean and refresh the sealant.

Ensure proper cable tension, check for worn chain and cassette, and perform derailleur adjustments to eliminate skipping.

Noise may be due to worn bearings. Remove, clean, and inspect the bottom bracket. Replace if necessary. Ensure proper installation and tension.

Adjust brake pad alignment, check for rotor trueness, and fine-tune the caliper position. Ensure even pad contact and smooth lever operation.