By Adrian Nita
What's the one thing that cycling enthusiasts dread? Having to take your trusty steed into a shop for a tuneup after not riding it for a while. The thought of having your bike out of commission, stuck in the garage collecting dust, is enough to make the most hardcore cyclist shudder.
But, whether you are an avid recreational or competitive rider who hops on your bike every chance you get, regular bike maintenance is a must. Taking the time for a little TLC upfront can make the difference between a fun and safe ride and one where you get stranded along the best trails for Austin bikers.
So whether you are an occasional rider or cycling fanatic, follow this tuneup checklist before your next ride:
CLEAN UP YOUR BIKE
Just like your car or home needs regular cleaning to stay in good shape, so does your bike. After you’ve pedaled through mud puddles on the trail or packed it away in storage for months, chances are your bike may have some grime built up from the elements and environment.
Wipe the chain, cassette, derailleur, and other components with a degreaser to help reduce wear and tear from dirt being caught in between moving parts. Give the frame (and your ride) a good once over with a wet rag, too.
INSPECT THE FRAME
After cleaning your bike, take a good look at the frame for any cracks or dents that are more than just cosmetic. Inspect critical areas like the head tube and bottom bracket.
You should also give your bike a good shake to check for any excessive play that could mean the frame is cracked or your headset needs adjusting. Do not take a chance and ride your bike if it’s compromised.
CHECK THE BRAKES
It goes without saying –– brakes are essential for a safe ride. That’s why you should always check the brake pads and cables for signs of wear and tear before taking off. Are they hitting the rim correctly?
Make adjustments if necessary, including cleaning or sanding to ensure sharper performance. You also want to make sure the brake pull isn't too loose or too tight.
CHECK YOUR TIRES
Properly inflated tires not only increase the life of your bike, but they improve handling too. Use a pressure gauge to check if your tires need some air. Most wheels will be around 120 PSI, and it should be written on the side of your tire.
GIVE YOUR BIKE A SOLID LUBRICATION
Choose the appropriate lube for your environment and the conditions of riding. Lubricant helps protect against excessive wear and tear from dirt that can get caught in moving parts, so make sure all components are given a proper spritz of lube.
This includes your chain, brake, and derailleur levers, along with cables. Grease any threaded bolts like the stem, derailleur, and pedals too. And don’t forget: Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent dirt attraction.
CHECK YOUR CHAIN
What goes around, comes around –– and for bike chains, that saying couldn't be more accurate. Over time, dirt gunk can build up on the links, causing your chain to stretch as it passes over each gear (also known as “chain stretch”).
To maintain the health of your chain and wear throughput between 1,000 – 2,000 miles or once a year, invest in a new one. Also, take the time to clean and lube up your chain every now and then. Brush out the links with an old toothbrush, hit them with a dab of lubricant, then wipe off any access.
ADJUST YOUR SEAT
It may seem like a trivial task, but having your saddle adjusted to the right height and position is of utmost importance. Here’s why this is important: Adjusting your seat is one way to prevent a sore butt while riding.
What to look for: Make sure your legs are only slightly bent when you reach the 6 o’clock position and that your knee is directly over the center of the front pedal when your feet are parallel to the ground.
LET THE FUN BEGIN!
Now that you've given your bike the once-over and checked off everything on this list, it's time to hit the trails or the asphalt! Austin is, after all, one of the top 25 best biking cities in the U.S. There’s so much to explore, so hop on your bike and enjoy the benefits of cycling.
Just remember, regular routine maintenance not only keeps you safe but also helps to extend the life of your bike. Ride on!
Adrian is a former marine navigation officer turned writer with more than 3 years of experience in the field. He loves writing about anything and everything but specializes in covering smart technology and gardening. When he's not writing, Adrian enjoys spending time with his family and friends or hiking in the great outdoors.