It is common for cyclists to attempt to keep their bikes maintained without booking it in for a professional service. Although this is perfectly fine, there are a few things to consider when maintaining your bike yourself to ensure that it remains suitable for use.

Checking your tyre pressure - Getting your tyre pressure right will be the difference between a smooth and a rough ride. Take into account your own commute rather than just setting the pressure at the recommended level; experiment with a range of pressures to adapt to different terrains.

Cleaning your bike – Your bike will most likely get dirty after every trip and it is essential to clean your bike, not only to keep it looking brand new but to ensure that the chain and bearings don’t wear and seize. When cleaning your bike be sure to clean the actual moving parts. You can choose to clean your bike with a bicycle-specific cleaner or a mild degreaser detergent to ensure that you are getting rid of that greasy build up; especially on your bike chain.

Chain Lubrication – Especially after a good old clean, your bicycle chain will require lubrication. However, there is a knack to do this to ensure less mess when riding! Use a bicycle-specific chain lubricator and add one drop per link on the chain. After you’ve done them all, be sure to wipe the excess off and there will not be any oil to spray everywhere.

Irregular maintenance patterns – If you don’t maintain your bike properly, unfortunately it could become a safety hazard. It is important to ensure that your bikes brakes and tyres are checked before each ride. Even if you know how to maintain your bike with the few essentials it is recommended that you take it to a bike shop for an annual service.

Brake lever reach – If you cannot wrap the tips of your fingers around your brake lever, there is a way to adjust them safely at home. Whether you brake with one or two fingers you should be able to extend them over up to the first knuckle. The lever angle can also be adjusted to make your hands more comfortable. If you are not comfortable with adjusting your brake levers then you can ask your bike shop to adjust them correctly.

Handlebar size – Handlebars can be adjusted to suit a variety of different widths and body sizes. After all if it is too small or too big the handling experience isn’t going to be enjoyable. You can adjust your handlebar yourself or you can book it in with your local bike shop to ensure that it is done correctly.

It is essential to ensure that you look after your bike; whether you choose to do it yourself or not, it is important to get it serviced regularly by a local bike shop. The Bicycle Hub offer a repairs and services, so please contact us today to get your bike booked in before the winter truly sets in!