Spring is two weeks away and the first warm afternoons are the perfect time to bring your bike out of hibernation and get it ready for the coming season. A thorough inspection will ensure that your bike is safe and comfortable to ride.
Here are the most important steps for maintaining your bike, which you can easily do yourself.
1. Clean your bike
Start with a thorough cleaning. Remove dirt and dust with water, a mild soap solution and a sponge. Pay particular attention to the chain, gears and brakes, as dirt often accumulates here. However, please make sure that no soap residue gets into the groundwater, which is why it is advisable to place a tarpaulin under the bike. There are also biodegradable bike cleaners on the market; we recommend the Orontas care range, for example.
2. Check the air pressure of the tires
Check the tires for cracks, wear and foreign objects such as stones or splinters. Check the air pressure and bring it up to the values specified by the manufacturer. Optimally inflated tires ensure less rolling resistance and better road grip. You also support the longevity of the tire.
3. Check the brakes
Of course, this should not be mentioned separately. But check that the brakes are working properly. Pull the brake levers and check whether the brake pads or discs grip the tire evenly. If necessary, adjust the brakes or replace worn brake pads.
4. Maintain the chain
The chain should be clean and well lubricated. Remove old lubrication residue with a cloth and apply fresh chain oil. Also check the gears and adjust them if necessary to ensure smooth shifting.
5. Check reflectors and bike lights
Functioning lights are essential for safety. Check the front and rear lights as well as the reflectors. Replace defective bulbs or batteries or recharge batteries. Bicycle reflectors are a simple measure to increase road safety. They ensure that cyclists are seen earlier and from different angles. Bicycle reflectors are required by law in many countries. In Germany, the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) stipulate that bicycles must be fitted with certain reflectors, including Front white reflector, rear red reflector, yellow spoke or tire reflectors and yellow pedal reflectors. And each additional reflector as well as reflective clothing improve safety.
Here are a few of our favorite reflectors from Bookman.
6. Tighten bolts and bearings
Check all bolts on handlebars, saddle, pedals and pannier rack. Wobbly parts can be dangerous. If your bike has ball bearings (e.g. in the bottom bracket or headset), check that they run smoothly and do not jam or make noises.
7. Get on the bike: go for a test ride
Finally, take a short test ride. Test the brakes, gears and suspension. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations and rectify any problems.
These measures will give you a safe and comfortable start to the new cycling season. If you discover any major defects or are unsure about a repair, a specialist dealer can carry out a professional inspection. Ride carefully and ps. Wear a helmet!!!!
