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Preventive Maintenance For Your Bicycle |
By:
Gregg Hall |
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Like all mechanical contraptions, your bicycle is vulnerable to
wear and tear caused by regular use and exposure to the
elements. Routine preventive maintenance will keep your bicycle
in peak condition and safe for riding throughout the year.
Although some bicycle repair and maintenance is best performed
by a qualified bike mechanic, you should be able to do routine
maintenance using a few basic tools. Here are some of the things
you can do to keep your bike in perfect shape.
Tires
Check the pressure of your tires to make sure they are inflated
to proper specifications. Consult the manual or the tire's
sidewall for information on the range of acceptable pressures
for your tire. Note any splits or fatigue marks in the sidewall
or tread. Inspect the rim for dents, twists or kinks. Spin each
wheel to make sure it is true and centered in the stays. If the
wheel wobbles from side to side when spun, then it needs truing.
Check if some spokes need to be replaced or tightened. If your
bike is equipped with quick-release mechanisms, make sure they
are securely fastened.
Steering
The handlebars, saddle and pedals must be securely attached.
Check the height of the handlebar stem. Make sure that the
handlebar stem and seatpost are fastened such that their minimum
insertion marks are not exposed. Handlebars should be tight and
in line with the front wheel. Check if handlebars and front fork
are properly stabilized. You should be able to rotate the
handlebar post freely in the front fork. Tighten the bolts that
attach the pedal crank-arms to the front bearing. Pedals should
be tight, with no binding. Check for looseness in front and
headset bearings.
Brakes
Squeeze both brake levers and try to roll the bike to check if
the brakes are operating properly. If the bike moves while the
brave levers are squeezed or if the brake levers touch the
handlebar, then your brakes are too loose and need some
adjusting. Make sure brake cables are taut. Check the brake
cable for breaks or frayed ends; replace any worn or frayed
brake cable. When brakes are applied, the brake pads (shoes)
should contact squarely with the rim and should not touch the
tire or the spokes.
Chain
Keep your bike's chain clean and properly lubricated. Use a rag
soaked in de-greaser to remove dirt and grease buildup.
Lubricate the chain after cleaning. Bike maintenance experts
recommend using a web lube in wet environments and a dry lube in
dry environments. Make sure that the chain moves smoothly
without sticking or jumping.
Tools for basic bicycle maintenance
Proper inspection and maintenance of your bike requires a few
basic tools.
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Article Source: http://www.PopularArticles.com/article39953.html |
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